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How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're exhausted and are ready to put on your favorite sweatshirt Grab a pizza and binge your latest TV show. But, you realize that the keys to your car aren't to be found.
Before you panic, consider your options. There are many ways to replace a lost car key however, the majority of them require a locksmith or dealership.
Check the locks on your car.
If you've lost your car keys, it's always recommended to first check your vehicle. In the end, we tend to forget where they're especially when we're in a hurry or distracted. Finding lost car keys can be relatively easy when your car is thoroughly searched.
Start with the driver’s seat. car lost key replacement can be moved forward and backwards as well as up and down to search every inch of your car for the car key. Make sure you check zippered areas and small compartments for the keys, too. Also, be sure to check your purse, backpack, or tote bag for the keys.
A lot of modern cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from an extended distance. Usually, these devices have 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 obtain an alternative key fob if you've lost it.
Certain older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you have lost these keys, a locksmith could be able to make keys for you, if you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
You can also purchase an entirely new replacement from the dealership, but this will be much more expensive. The dealership will have to connect a computer chip to your car, which can cost $200-$250 or more depending on the make and model of your car.
Be sure to check your insurance policy prior to purchase the new car key. You may be able claim on your comprehensive insurance plan to pay for the cost of purchasing a new car key. Check with your insurance provider whether you have roadside assistance coverage. This will be useful in the event that you need it. The good news is that there are now numerous companies that offer roadside assistance plans which means you will be able to locate services 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. lost vehicle keys is used to identify vehicles and track inventory. It is also used to report thefts and crashes. In the United States the VIN is typically stamped on a label or a plate that's affixed to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb, and sometimes behind the motor block. Your VIN can be found in other documents like your registration for your vehicle, 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 a new key that is based on the VIN. A locksmith can decode the VIN and find the manufacturer's code for your model. This will work with your lock.
The VIN is usually found on a sticker on the driver's-side dashboard in the area where the windshield meets it. You can also look for it on the door jamb for the driver's side or on the 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 into your windows or windshields to provide an security measure against theft.
Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth report on your vehicle including the model, manufacturer, body type, engine size, assembly facility and the year of manufacture.
VINs first came into use in 1954. However, up to 1981 they were available in different configurations. In the year 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 most dealerships or automotive locksmiths depending on the type of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if you car requires an ignition chip, you'll have to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer who will replace your key with one that will start your car. In other cases, you can purchase standard keys from hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
A few years ago losing your car keys was not an issue. You could simply call your local dealership to get a new set of keys made. It's a lot more complicated today. If you're in the market to get your car keys replaced, the dealership isn't always the most ideal option.
Although you could obtain a traditional key from the dealership, the best option is to call an auto locksmith. They're more likely be capable of getting you back on the road in a hurry and will probably charge less than the dealership would.
Before you call anyone to replace your car keys, make a note of the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). This is important as someone will need it to create the replacement car keys for you. The VIN can be found on the dashboard of the driver's side, or it may be printed inside of your owner's manual.
Dealerships can replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. This isn't a warranty, however. It's dependent on the model and make of your vehicle, as well as whether keys are equipped with complicated programming. Bring your car to the dealership and inquire for the service manager if aren't sure if they can help.
If you have an electronic key that's been lost or stolen, you'll need to visit your dealership to get it replaced. This is because your car's security functions require a particular type of key to reset and function correctly.
The process is now more complex than it was in the past so make sure you're willing to pay the additional cost to restore this feature. A dealer will also be able to provide you with a backup key that's similar to the original one in the event that the lost key was damaged or stolen. If you opt to go this route ensure that you have all the information needed, including an ID photo. This will make it easier for everyone to go through the process.
Contact a locksmith
Contacting a locksmith is the first step in replacing lost car keys. A skilled locksmith can cut and program a new key for your vehicle while you wait. However, they will need to know the year, make and model of your vehicle, as well as proof that you own it (a copy of your registration or title will do it).
Make sure to look over all possible locations for your keys before you contact a locksmith. Examine the pockets on pants, jackets and purses. Also check any other bags you might have used. You may also search for your keys in places that you would not normally put them, like 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 to call someone.
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 transport your car to a dealership to purchase a new key.
Locksmiths are often able to program and cut new keys for cars equipped with more advanced features, like smart keys, transponder keys, or switchblade keys. These keys that are more complicated may require you to provide the VIN number of the car however an experienced locksmith will have the 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 happen when you accidentally lock them in your car. It is recommended to leave the removal of a damaged key to a professional. Doing it yourself could cause more damage.
In addition to helping you replace your lost car keys, a locksmith can give you advice about how to prevent future keys from being lost or stolen. Making preventative steps, like keeping an extra 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.