how to replace lost car keys (read this post here)
You're exhausted and want to put on your favorite sweats take a bite of pizza and watch the latest TV show. You realize that your car keys have disappeared.
Be aware of your options prior to get in a panic. There are a variety of ways to replace a lost car key however, the majority of these require a locksmith or dealership.
Check Your Car's Locks
It's best to check your car first when you lose your keys. We often forget where we've put them particularly when we're in a rush or distracted. Fortunately the search for lost car keys isn't difficult when you make the effort to conduct an exhaustive search in your vehicle.
Start with the driver’s seat. Make sure to inspect every inch of the car by moving the seats upwards and downwards, back and forward. Be sure to feel around small compartments and zippered areas for the keys, too. You should also carefully check your purse, backpack, or tote bag for keys.
Many modern vehicles come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. These devices typically contain an internal chip that connects to the car in order to allow you access to the vehicle and then start the engine. You'll need to visit your dealer to obtain an alternative key fob if you've lost it.
Some older cars still use traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of these keys, it's likely that a locksmith will be in a position to make a replacement key for you, as long as you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
You can also purchase a new replacement from a dealer, but it will be more expensive. The dealership will have to connect a computer chip to your vehicle, which could be priced between $200 and $250, or more, based on the make and model of your car.
Before you make a payment for the replacement of your car key, be sure to consider your insurance policy. You might be able to claim your comprehensive insurance to cover the cost of buying a new car key. Moreover, it's also worth asking your car insurance company if they have roadside assistance insurance that can assist you in the event of an emergency. There are a variety of companies that offer roadside assistance programs. 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 is unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and keep track of inventory, report accidents and thefts, and much more. In the United States, the VIN is typically the form of a plate or label on the dashboard of your car or the driver's side door jamb and sometimes, in front of the engine block. Your VIN can be found in different places like your vehicle registration, title, and insurance documents.
Your VIN is unique to your vehicle It's a good idea to keep it somewhere safe. In the event that you should ever lose your keys, you can make use of it to get a replacement key made quickly and quickly. A locksmith can decode your VIN and find the manufacturer's codes for your particular model. This will work with your lock.
The VIN is usually found on a label on the dashboard of the driver at the point where the windshield joins it. You can also look for it on the driver's side door jamb or on the front of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. In some cases there are instances where the VIN is even written on your windows or windshields as part of an security measure against theft.
Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an entire report on your vehicle, including manufacturer, make and model body style, engine size assembly plant, and the year of its production.
VINs were first used in 1954, however, until 1981, they were available in a variety. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current one of 17 characters.
If your VIN is correct, then you will be able to obtain new keys at most dealerships and locksmiths for automotive, based on the kind of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if you vehicle requires an ignition chip you'll need to visit an auto locksmith or dealer that can swap your key for one that will be able to start your vehicle. You can also find standard keys at hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys weren't a big deal. You could easily call your local dealer to get a new set. It's a lot more difficult today. The dealership might not be the best option in case you want to replace the keys to your car that you lost.
Although you could get a traditional key at the dealership, your best bet is to call an auto locksmith. They will be able to get you back on your way faster and charge less than a dealership.
Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you contact someone to replace your keys. This is crucial because it will be required to create a new replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN is on the dashboard of your car or could be found in the owner's guide.
Dealerships can replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. However, this doesn't assurance that they'll be able help you. It's contingent on the model and make of your vehicle and whether or not the keys have complex programming. If you're unsure whether or your dealer can assist you, bring your car to the dealership and request a chat with the service manager.
If your smart key has been stolen or lost it must be replaced by a dealership. This is because your car's security features require a specific type of key to reset and function correctly.
The process is now more complicated than it was in the past, so be sure that you're willing to pay the extra cost to have this feature restored. In the event that your original key is lost key what to do or damaged the dealership will be able to provide you with an identical backup. If you choose to go this route, be sure to have all the necessary information with you along with an identification photo. This will make it easier for everyone to go through the process.
Contact a locksmith
The most important step in replacing keys to your car that have been lost is to contact a locksmith. An experienced locksmith will be able cut and program the new key for your vehicle while you wait. They will require the year, make, and model of your vehicle with proof of ownership (a copy of your registration or title).
Before you get a locksmith on the phone however, ensure that you've inspected all possible places where your keys might be. Examine the pockets on jackets, pants and purses. Also, look through any other bags that you may have used. You may also search for your keys in areas that you wouldn't normally place them, such as on the floor behind the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you've tried all this and are still not able to locate your keys, it's time for you to contact someone.
For traditional keys locksmiths will be able to repair them in a matter of $20. This is cheaper than the price you'd pay to have roadside assistance take your car to a dealer and purchase a replacement key.
In many instances, locksmiths can also cut and program keys for more advanced types of cars, including smart keys, switchblade keys, and transponder keys. These more complex keys might require that you provide the VIN number of the car however, a professional locksmith should have the right tools to cut and program the key on the spot for you.
Most locksmiths also i have lost my car keys the ability to remove damaged or bent keys which can happen when you lock them accidentally in your car. If you attempt to remove a damaged key by yourself could cause more damage, so this is something that should be left to experts.
In addition to helping you replace lost car keys locksmiths can also give you advice about how to replace a lost car key to prevent future keys from being lost car key replacement near me or stolen. Taking preventative steps, like keeping a spare set of keys at home or in your wallet can go a long way towards making sure you never lose your car keys ever again.