How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired, so change into your sweats and order a pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. You realize that the keys to your car have disappeared.
Before you panic, consider your options. There are a few different ways to replace lost car keys, but most of them require the dealership or a professional locksmith.
Check the locks on your car.
It's best to check your car first if you lose your keys. We often don't know where they are, particularly when we're distracted or in a rush. Fortunately the search for lost car keys is fairly easy if you make the effort to conduct a thorough search of your vehicle.
Start with the driver's seat. Check every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats upwards and downwards, back and forth. Also, feel around zippered areas or small compartments to find the keys. lost my keys should also carefully check your purse, backpack, or tote bag for the keys.
A lot of modern cars come with key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car from an extended distance. They usually include an internal chip that can communicate to the car to allow you into the vehicle and 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 keys made of metal that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith could be able to create a replacement key for you, if you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
The dealer is also able to provide an alternative, but it will cost more. The dealership must connect a computer chip to your car, which can be priced between $200 and $250, or more, based on the model and make of your car.
Make sure you check your insurance policy prior to deciding to purchase a new car key. If you have a comprehensive insurance policy you might be able to claim on it to cover the cost of replacing a key. It's also important to inquire with your car insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance coverage that will aid you in the case of an emergency. There are many companies that provide roadside assistance plans. You should be able to find one near you.
Check your vehicle's identification (VIN).
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit alpha and numeric code that is unique to every vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles as well as monitor inventory, report crashes and thefts, and much more. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into the form of a plate or label on the dashboard of your car and driver's side door jamb, and sometimes, in front of the engine block. You can also locate your VIN in other places, including the registration of your vehicle title, insurance and title documents.
It is essential to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your car. This way, should you ever lose your keys, you'll be able to utilize it to have the replacement key made quickly and quickly. A locksmith can decode your VIN and locate the key code from the manufacturer specific to your lock that will then work with your lock.
Most passenger cars have their VIN on a label placed between the windshield and the dash on the driver's side. You can also find it on the driver's side door jamb, or in front of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. In some instances it is possible that the VIN is even etched on your windows or windshields to provide an anti-theft measure.
You can verify your VIN by entering it into a web-based VIN decoder. This will give you the complete information about your vehicle, including manufacturer, model and make the body style, the engine size, assembly plant and the year it was made.
VINs were first introduced in 1954, but until 1981, they came in a variety of formats. In the year 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 dealerships or automotive locksmiths depending on the type of key your vehicle requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip, you'll need to visit a locksmith or dealer to replace your key. You can also get basic keys at hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
Not long ago, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could simply call your local dealer and request a new set. Today, it's a lot more complicated than that. The dealership might not be the best option for replacing your car keys that have been lost.
You can still get a traditional car key from a dealership, but it is better to contact an automotive lock. They will be able get you back on the quicker and at a lower cost than a dealership.
Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you call someone to replace your lost keys. This is important because you will need it to create an alternative car key for you. The VIN can be found on the driver's dashboard or included in your owner's manual.
Dealerships are able to replace cars keys for most manufacturers. However, this isn't a guarantee that they'll be able to assist you. It is dependent on your make and model, and whether the keys are smart or have complex programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealer and ask for the service manager if are unsure if they can assist.
If you have a smart key that's lost or stolen, you'll need to visit your dealer in order to have it replaced. 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 was previously be, so you should be prepared to pay a higher cost to restore this feature. Dealers can also provide you with a backup key that's similar to the original in case your lost one was damaged or stolen. If you decide to go this route, be sure to carry all the required information with you, as well as a photo ID. This will help everyone to get through the process.
Contact a locksmith
A locksmith's call is the first step in replacing keys for your car that have been lost. An experienced locksmith can cut and program the new key for your vehicle while you wait. However, they will need to know the year and make of your vehicle, as well as evidence that you own the car (a copy of your registration or title will suffice).
Before you get a locksmith's number, though, make sure that you have checked every possible place where your keys may be. This includes checking pockets of pants and jackets as well as purses and other bags you've used. You may also search for your keys in places that you wouldn't normally place them, such as on the floor under a doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried this but are still unable to locate your keys, you should seek help.
A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot at a cost of around $20. This is a lot less expensive than having roadside assistance take your vehicle to a dealer to buy a new key.
In many cases, a locksmith can also cut and program the new key for more advanced models of automobiles, including smart keys, switchblade keys, transponder keys, and switchblade keys. These more complex keys might require that you provide the VIN number of the car, but a professional locksmith should have the right tools to cut and program the key in a flash for you.
Most locksmiths also have the ability to remove damaged keys that are bent or broken, which can occur when you accidentally lock them in your car. Trying to remove a broken key on your own can cause more damage, so this task should be left to the experts.
A locksmith can help you replace lost car keys and also give tips on how to prevent future keys being misplaced or stolen. Preventive measures, such as keeping an extra set of keys at home or in your wallet can go a long way towards ensuring that you don't lose your car keys ever again.