How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired, so change into your sweats and grab a slice of pizza to watch your latest TV show. You discover that your car keys are missing.
Know your options before you get in a panic. There are a few different methods to replace car keys that have been lost but the majority require a dealership or a professional locksmith.
Check Your Car's Locks
If you lose your car keys, it's always recommended to first check your vehicle. After all, we often forget where we put them particularly when we're in a rush or distracted. Finding keys to your car may be fairly simple in the event that your vehicle is thoroughly searched.
Start with the driver's seat. Check every inch of the car by moving the seats up and down, back and back and forth. Also, feel around zippered areas or small compartments to locate keys. Also, you should carefully search your purse, backpack, or tote bag for the keys.
A lot of modern cars have key fobs which allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. Usually, these devices have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car keys lost in order to let you in and start the engine. You'll need to go to your dealer to obtain the new key fob in case you've lost keys replacement it.
Some older cars still have keys made of metal that fit in an ignition cylinder. If you have lost one of keys, it's likely that locksmiths are capable of creating a new key for you as long as you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
The dealer may also offer an alternative however, it will cost more. The dealership will have to pair a computer chip with your car, which can cost between $200 and $250 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
Before you pay for the replacement of your car key be sure to check your insurance policy. You might be able to claim on your comprehensive insurance to pay for the cost of buying a new car key. Check with your insurance provider if you have roadside service coverage. This can help should you ever require it. The good news is that there are now many companies offering roadside assistance, so you will be able to locate a service near you.
Check your vehicle's identification (VIN).
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to every vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and track inventory. It is also used to report crashes and thefts. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into the form of a plate or label on the dashboard of your car or jambs on the door of the driver's side, and sometimes in front of the engine block. Your VIN can be found in different places like your vehicle registration and title as well as insurance documents.
It's important to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your car. This way, should you lose your keys, you'll be in a position to use it to get a replacement key made quickly and quickly. A locksmith can decode your VIN and find the manufacturer's code for your model. This will work with your lock.
The VIN is usually located on a label that is placed 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 in front the engine block of larger commercial and truck vehicles. Some VINs are etched directly into the windows or windshields of your vehicle as a theft security measure.
You can verify your VIN by entering it into a web-based VIN decoder. This will give you a complete report on your vehicle, which includes the manufacturer, make and model body style, engine size assembly plant, and the year of its production.
VINs first appeared in 1954 when VINs first appeared. However, up to 1981, they were offered in a variety of configurations. In that year the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current 17-character format.
If your VIN number is correct, you can purchase new keys from a variety of dealerships or automotive locksmiths depending on the type key your vehicle requires. For example, if your car requires an ignition chip you'll need to go to an authorized locksmith or dealer who can replace your key with one that can start your car. Otherwise, you can simply get standard keys from hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
Not long ago, losing your car keys was not a huge deal. You could simply contact your local dealer to have a new set of keys made. It's a lot more difficult today. The dealership may not be the best place to go if you need to replace the keys to your car that you lost.
While you may obtain a traditional key from the dealership, your best bet is to contact an automotive locksmith. They can get you back on your quicker and at a lower cost than the dealership.
Before you call anyone to replace your car keys, note down the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is vital as it will be required to make a new replacement car key for your car. The VIN is located on the dashboard of the driver's side or printed inside of your owner's manual.
Dealerships can replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. However, this doesn't assurance that they'll be able assist you. It's dependent on the make and model of your car and whether or not the keys have complicated programming. If you're not sure whether 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 lost or stolen, it will need to be replaced at the dealership. This is because the security features of your car require a specific type of key to be reset and function properly.
This process is more complex than it used to be, so make sure you're willing to pay a higher price to restore this feature. A dealership can also give you a backup key that's similar to the original one in the event that your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you opt to do this ensure you have all the information needed, including a photo ID. This will make it easier for everyone to go through the process.
Contact a locksmith
The most crucial step to take in replacing lost keys keys to your car that have been lost key to car is to contact a locksmith. A locksmith who has experience will be able to program and cut a new car key while you are waiting. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle, with evidence of ownership (a duplicate of your registration or title).
Before calling a locksmith on the phone however, ensure that you've inspected all possible places where your keys may be. This includes checking pockets of jackets and pants as well as purses and other bags you may have used. You may also search for your keys in places that you would not normally put them, like on the floor under the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you've tried this and still cannot find your keys, it's time to call for help.
For keys that are traditional, a locksmith will be able to repair them in a matter of $20. This is a lot less expensive than having roadside assistance tow you car to a dealership to purchase a new one.
Locksmiths are often able to program and cut new keys for cars with more advanced features, such as transponder keys, smart keys, or switchblade keys. These more complex keys may require you to provide the VIN number of your car, but an experienced locksmith should have the right tools to cut and program the key right on the spot for you.
Many locksmiths can also remove broken or bent keys that are usually caused by locking them in your vehicle. If you attempt to remove a damaged key by yourself could cause more damage, so this is something that should be left to the professionals.
In addition to helping you replace lost key for car what to do car keys, a locksmith can give you advice about how to prevent future keys from getting misplaced or stolen. Taking preventative steps, like keeping a spare set of keys at home or in your wallet can make a huge difference in ensuring that you don't lose your car keys again.