How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted, so you put on your favorite sweats and grab a slice of pizza to watch your latest TV show. You find that the keys to your car have disappeared.

Know your options before you get in a panic. There are several ways to replace a lost car key however the majority of they require a locksmith or dealer.

Check the Locks on Your Car

It's best to inspect your car first when you lose your keys. We often forget the location of our keys, especially when we're busy or distracted. Fortunately, finding lost car keys replacement car keys is relatively easy when you take the time to do an exhaustive search in your vehicle.

Start with the driver's seat. Move the seats forward and back as well as up and down to search every inch of your car for the car key. Also, feel around compartments with zippers or small spaces to find the keys. Examine your backpack, purse or tote bag for keys.

Many modern cars have key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car from a distance. Usually, these devices have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car in order to let you in and start the engine. If you'i ve lost my car keys what can i do lost your car's keys fob, you'll need to go to the dealership to get an alternative one created.

Some older vehicles still have traditional metal keys that fit in an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith might be able to create an alternative key for you if you have evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.

You can also get a new replacement from the dealership, but this will be more expensive. The dealer must pair up a computer chip for your vehicle. This can cost between $200 and $250 depending on the model and make.

Before you make a payment for an auto key replacement be sure to check your insurance policy. If you have coverage that is comprehensive you may be able to claim on it to pay for the cost of a replacement key. Ask your insurance company whether they have roadside service coverage. This could come in handy should you ever require it. The good news is that there are many companies offering roadside assistance packages, so you are likely to find a service close to you.

Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (VIN)

The vehicle identification number is an alpha-numeric code with 17 digits for each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and keep track of inventory, report accidents and thefts, as well as more. In the United States, the VIN is typically stamped into an image or a plate on your car's dashboard and driver's side door jamb, and sometimes in front of the engine block. Your VIN can be found in other documents such as your vehicle registration as well as title and insurance documents.

It is essential to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your vehicle. If you lose your keys, you can easily and quickly get new keys that is based on the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN and locate the key code from the manufacturer for your particular model that will then work with your lock.

Most passenger cars have their VIN on a label placed where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. 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 it is possible that the VIN is even written into your windows or windshields to provide an security measure to prevent theft.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you a complete report on your vehicle, which includes the manufacturer, make and model the body style, the engine size, assembly plant and the year of its production.

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

If your VIN number is correct, you can get new keys from most locksmiths, automotive or dealerships based on the type of key your vehicle requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip, you will have to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer to replace your key. In other cases, you can buy standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

A few years ago, losing your car keys was not a huge deal. You could easily contact your local dealer and request a new set. Today, it's more complex than it used to be. If you're in the market to have your lost car keys replaced, the dealership isn't always your most ideal option.

While you can certainly still purchase a traditional key at the dealership, the best choice is to call an auto locksmith. They can get you back on the way faster and charge less than the dealership.

Note down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you call someone to replace your lost keys. This is important as someone will need it to create the replacement car keys for you. The VIN is located on the dashboard of the driver's side, or it may be printed inside of the owner's manual.

Dealerships are able to replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. However, this isn't a guarantee that they'll be able to assist you. It is all dependent on the make and model, and if the keys are smart or are complex in their programming. Bring your car to the dealership and ask for a service manager if you are unsure whether they can help.

If your smart key was lost or stolen, it will need to be replaced by a dealership. This is because the security features of your car require a specific kind of key to reset and work correctly.

This process is more complicated than it used to be, so you should be prepared to pay a greater price to restore this feature. Dealers can also provide you with another key that's identical to the original in case your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you choose to go this route, be sure to have all the required information with you and a photo ID. This will facilitate the process for everyone involved.

Contact a locksmith

Calling a locksmith is the first step to replace lost my car keys no spare keys to your car. A locksmith who has expertise will be able to program and cut a new key for your car while you wait. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle with evidence of ownership (a copy of your registration or title).

Before you call a locksmith over the phone however, ensure that you have checked all possible places where your keys could be. This includes checking the pockets of pants and jackets as well as purses and other bags you might have used. You may also search for your keys in places where you don't usually put them, like on the floor under the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you've done this but are still unable to locate your keys, you should call for help.

A locksmith should be able to replace traditional keys on the spot, at a cost of around $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance take your car to a dealership to buy a new key.

Locksmiths are often able to program and cut new keys for cars that have more advanced features, such as transponder keys, smart keys or switchblade keys. Some of these more complex keys require the VIN number of your car, however locksmiths will be able to cut and program the key on the spot.

Most locksmiths also have the ability to remove damaged keys that are bent or broken that can occur if you accidentally lock them in your car. If you attempt to remove a damaged key on your own could cause more damage, and this should be left to professionals.

In addition to helping you replace your keys to your car that have been lost, a locksmith can provide advice on how to avoid keys from getting misplaced or stolen. Taking preventative measures, such as keeping an extra set of keys at home or in your wallet can help in making sure you never lose your car keys again.