How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're exhausted and are ready to change into your favorite sweatshirt, grab some pizza, and watch the latest TV show. You discover that the keys to your car have disappeared.
Be aware of your options prior to panic. There are a variety of ways to replace the car key that was lost the keys to my car however the majority of these require a locksmith or a dealership.
Check Your Car's Locks
It is best to look in your car first when you lose your keys. We often forget where they are, particularly if we're busy or distracted. Fortunately, finding lost car keys is relatively easy if you take the time to do an exhaustive search of your vehicle.
Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. Check every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats up and down, back and forward. Make sure you check compartments with zippers and small spaces for keys, too. Examine your backpack, purse or tote bag carefully for keys.
A majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from the distance. Most of the time, these devices come with an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car in order to let you in and start the engine. You'll need to go to your dealer to purchase the new key fob in case you've lost it.
Some older cars still use traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith may be able to make a replacement key for you if you have evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.
The dealer can also provide the replacement however, it will cost more. The dealership will have to connect a computer chip to your vehicle, which could cost $200-$250 or more depending on the model and make of your car.
Be sure to 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 pay for the cost of replacing a key. Moreover, it's also important to inquire with your car insurance company if they have roadside assistance coverage to help you in the event of an emergency. The good news is that there are numerous companies that offer roadside assistance packages and you will be able to locate services close to 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 as well as track inventory, report crashes and thefts, and more. In the United States, the VIN is typically a label or plate on the dashboard of your vehicle, the driver's side door jamb and sometimes on the engine block. You may also find your VIN in other places, such as the registration of your vehicle, title and insurance documents.
It is essential to keep your VIN secure because it's unique to you and your vehicle. If you lose your keys you can easily and quickly obtain new keys that is based on the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN and retrieve the manufacturer's key code specific to your lock, which will then work with your lock.
The VIN is usually found on a sticker on the dashboard of the driver's side at the point where the windshield joins it. You can also find it on the driver-side door jamb or on the side of the engine block of larger commercial and truck vehicles. In some cases there are instances where the VIN is even etched into your windows or windshields as part of a security measure to prevent theft.
You can verify your VIN by entering it into a web-based VIN decoder. This will give you an entire report on your vehicle, including the manufacturer, model and make the body style, the engine size, assembly plant and the year of its production.
VINs were first introduced in 1954, but until 1981, they were offered in a variety. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current format of 17 characters.
If your VIN number is correct, you can purchase new keys from many dealerships or automotive locksmiths depending on the type of key your vehicle requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip you will need to visit a locksmith or dealer in order to replace your key. You can also purchase regular keys from hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
In the past the loss of your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could easily call your local dealer and request a new set. Nowadays, it's much more complicated than that. If you're looking to get your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always the most ideal option.
Although you could purchase a traditional key at the dealership, your best bet is to contact an automotive locksmith. They will be able get you back on your quicker and at a lower cost than the dealership.
Before you contact anyone to replace your car keys, note down the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is important because it will be required in order for someone to create a new replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN is on the dashboard of your vehicle or it could be printed in your owner's guide.
Dealerships are able to replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. However, this isn't a guarantee that they'll be able assist you. It is all dependent on the make and model, and whether the keys are intelligent or have complex programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and request the service manager if aren't sure if they can help.
If you have a smart key that's lost key replacement near me or stolen, you'll have to visit your dealership 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.
The process is now more complex than it was in the past, so be sure that you're willing to pay the additional cost to restore this feature. A dealership can also give you another key that's identical to the one you have in case your lost one was damaged or stolen. If you decide to take this route, make sure you have all the necessary information on hand, as well as an identification photo. This will make it easier for all to complete the process.
Call an expert locksmith
Calling a locksmith is the first step in replacing lost keys to your car. A locksmith with experience will be able program and cut a new car key while you wait. They will need the year, make, and model of your vehicle, along with proof of ownership (a duplicate of your registration or title).
Be sure to check all possible locations for your keys prior to when you contact a locksmith. Check pockets on jackets, pants and purses. Also check any other bags that you may have used. You could also search for your keys in areas that you would not normally put them, such as on the floor behind the doorway table or under the couch. If you've done this and still cannot find your keys, you should call for help.
A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot, for about $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance tow your car to a dealership to buy a new key.
In many instances, a locksmith can also cut and program the new key for more advanced models of automobiles, such as smart keys, switchblade keys transponder keys, and switchblade keys. These more complex keys might require you to provide the VIN number of your car, but professional locksmiths should have the right tools to do this in a flash for you.
Many locksmiths are also able to remove bent or broken keys that are usually the result of accidentally locking them in your vehicle. The attempt to remove a broken key on your own can cause more damage, and this task should be left to professionals.
A locksmith can assist you replace lost key lost car keys and also offer advice on how to avoid the possibility of keys being lost the keys to my car or stolen. Preventive measures, such as keeping a spare set keys at home or in your wallet, can make a huge difference in ensuring that you don't lose your car keys ever again.