How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted and want to change into your favorite sweats Grab a pizza and watch the latest TV show. But, you realize that your car keys aren't to be found.

Be aware of your options prior to be in a panic. There are several ways to replace a lost car key however, the majority of these require a locksmith or dealership.

Check the locks on your car.

It is best to look in your car first if you lose your keys. We often don't know the location of our keys, especially if we're distracted or are in a hurry. Finding keys lost keys to car no spare in the car can be fairly simple in the event that your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Start with the driver's seat. Examine every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats up and down, as well as back and back and forth. Also, look around small compartments or zippered areas to find the keys. You should also carefully check your backpack, purse, or tote bag for keys.

A majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car from the distance. These devices typically contain an internal chip that communicates to the car in order to allow you into the vehicle and then start the motor. You'll need to visit your dealer to purchase the new key fob in case you've lost it.

Certain older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose the keys, a locksmith could be able to make keys for you, if you have proof of ownership like your registration or title.

You can also purchase an upgrade from the dealership, but this will be much more expensive. The dealership will need to connect a computer chip to your vehicle, which could cost between $200 and $250 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.

Make sure to verify your insurance policy prior to purchase a new car key. You could be able to claim your comprehensive insurance plan to cover the cost of buying an additional car key. Check with your insurance provider whether they have roadside service coverage. This will help should you ever require it. There are many companies that provide roadside assistance packages. You should be able find one near you.

Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN).

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit numeric and alpha code that's unique to each vehicle on the road. It is used to identify vehicles as well as track inventory. It can also be used to report crashes and thefts. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into a label or plate on the dashboard of your vehicle, the driver's side door jamb and sometimes, in front of the engine block. You can also find your VIN in other places, such as the registration of your vehicle title, insurance and title documents.

Your VIN is unique to your car, so it's a good idea to keep it in a safe place. If you lose your keys you can quickly and easily get a new key made using the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN to retrieve the manufacturer's key code for your specific model, which will then work with your lock.

The VIN is typically located on a sticker on the dashboard of the driver's side in the area where the windshield meets it. You can also find it on the door jamb of the driver or on the front of the engine block of commercial and larger vehicles. In some instances, the VIN is even etched into your windshield or windows as part of a security measure against theft.

You can check your VIN by entering it into a online VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth look at your vehicle's manufacturer, model body type, engine size, assembly facility and the year of its production.

VINs first appeared in 1954, when VINs were first introduced. However, up to 1981, they were available in different configurations. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current format of 17 characters.

If your VIN number is correct, you can purchase new keys from most locksmiths, automotive or dealerships based on the type key your vehicle requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip, you will need to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer to replace your key. Otherwise, you can simply get standard keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys weren't a big deal. You could easily contact your local dealer to get a new set. It's a lot more complicated today. The dealership may not be the best option in case you want to replace your car keys that have been lost.

While you can certainly still get a traditional key at the dealership, the best option is to contact an automotive locksmith. They can to get you back on your faster and for less than a dealership.

Note down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you contact someone to replace your lost keys. This is crucial because you will need it to create the replacement car keys for you. The VIN can be found on the dashboard of the driver's side or found in the owner's manual.

Dealerships are able to replace lost car key cost keys for the majority of car manufacturers. However, this isn't a guarantee that they'll be able to assist you. It all depends on your make and model, and whether the keys are intelligent or are complex in their programming. If you're not sure whether not your dealership can help you, bring your vehicle to the dealership and request a chat with the service manager.

If you have an electronic key that's been lost or stolen, you'll need to visit your dealer to get it replaced. This is because the security features of your car require a specific type of key to be reset and function correctly.

The process is now more complicated than it was in the past so make sure you're willing to pay the extra price to have this feature restored. In the event that your original key is damaged or stolen the dealership will be able to provide you with a duplicate backup. If you decide to take this route, make sure to have all the information needed with you and an identification photo. This will make it easier for everyone to get through the process.

Call a Locksmith

The most important step to take when replacing keys to your car that have been lost is to contact a locksmith. A locksmith who has experience will be able program and cut a new key for your car while you wait. They will require the year, make, and model of your vehicle, along with proof of ownership (a copy of your registration or title).

Make sure you check every possible location for your keys prior to when you call a locksmith. This includes checking the pockets of pants and jackets as well as purses and other bags you've used. You could also search for your keys in areas that you would not normally put them, such as on the floor behind the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you've done this but are still unable to locate your keys, you should contact a professional for assistance.

For keys that are traditional locksmiths should be able to replace keys on the spot for around $20. This is less than what you would pay to have roadside assistance take your car to the dealership and buy a replacement key.

In many instances, a locksmith can also cut and program keys for more advanced models of automobiles, including smart keys, switchblade keys and transponder keys. Some of these more complicated keys require you to provide the VIN number for your car, but a locksmith should be able to cut and program the key in a flash.

Many locksmiths are also able to remove keys that are bent or broken, which are usually caused by locking them in your vehicle. The attempt to remove a broken key on your own could cause more damage, and this should be left to the experts.

A locksmith can help replace keys to your car that have been lost and provide guidance on how to prevent future keys being misplaced or stolen. Prevention measures like keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home could help you to never lose your car key once more.