How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired, so put on your favorite sweats and grab a slice of pizza to watch your favorite TV show. However, you realize your car keys are nowhere to be found.
Be aware of your options before you panic. There are many ways to replace keys for cars that have been lost, but the majority of these require a locksmith or dealer.
Check Your Car's Locks
When you lose keys to your car, it's recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. After all, we often forget where we put them particularly when we're rushing or distracted. Finding lost car keys can be fairly simple when your car is thoroughly searched.
Start by sitting in the driver's seat. The seats can be moved forward and backwards as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your vehicle for the car key. Also, check the compartments with zippers or small spaces to find keys. Be sure to check your backpack, purse or tote bag for keys.
A majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from a distance. They usually have an internal chip that connects to the car in order to allow you into the vehicle and then start the motor. If you've lost your car key fob, you'll have to visit the dealership to have a new one created.
Some older vehicles still use traditional metal keys that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you have lost these keys, a locksmith might be able to create an alternative key for you if you have proof of ownership like your registration or title.
You can also purchase an upgrade at the dealership, however this will be more expensive. The dealership must integrate a computer chip into your vehicle, which could cost between $200 and $250 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.
Before you make a payment for the replacement of your car key be sure to check your insurance policy. You could be able to claim your comprehensive insurance policy to pay for the cost of buying an additional car key. Moreover, it's also important to inquire with your car insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance insurance that can aid you in the case of an emergency. There are a variety of companies that offer roadside assistance programs. You should be able find one near you.
Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (VIN)
The vehicle identification number is a unique 17-digit alpha-numeric code for every vehicle that is on the road. It's used to identify vehicles as well as track inventory. It is also used to report thefts and crashes. In the United States, the VIN is typically stamped into an image or a plate on the dashboard of your car or the driver's side door jamb and sometimes in front of the engine block. You can also locate your VIN in other places, such as your registration for your vehicle title, insurance and title documents.
Your VIN is unique to your car and it's a good idea to keep it in a safe place. If you lose your keys, you can easily and quickly get a new one made using the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN to find the key code of the manufacturer specific to your lock that will then work with your lock.
The VIN is typically located on a label that is placed on the dashboard of the driver in the area where the windshield meets it. You can also find it on the door jamb on the driver's side, or in front of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. Some VINs are permanently etched into the windows or windshields of your vehicle as a theft prevention measure.
Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth report on your vehicle's model, manufacturer, body type, engine size, assembly facility and the year of manufacturing.
VINs were first introduced in 1954, but up to 1981, they were available 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 get new keys from many locksmiths, automotive or dealerships based on the type key your vehicle requires. For example, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip you'll need to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer who can replace your key with one that will start your car. If not, you can buy standard keys at hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys was not a big deal. You could simply call your local dealer and request a new set. Today, it's more complicated than it used to be. If you're looking to have your lost car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always your most ideal option.
You can still get a traditional car key from the dealership but it is best to call an automotive lock. They can to get you back on your quicker and at a lower cost than a dealership.
Before you call someone to replace your lost car keys, note down the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is important because you will need it to create an alternative car key for you. The VIN is found on the dashboard of your car, or may be printed in your owner's manual.
Dealerships can replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. This isn't a warranty, however. It depends on the make and model of your car and whether or not the keys have complex programming. If you're not sure whether or the dealership you're dealing with can assist you, bring your car to the dealership and request a chat with the service manager.
If you have a smart key that's been lost or stolen, you'll need to go to your dealership for it to be replaced. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a specific kind of key to reset and function properly.
The process is now more complicated than it was in the past and you should make sure you're willing to pay the extra cost to restore this feature. A dealership will also be able to provide you with a backup key that's similar to the original in case your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you decide to do this ensure that you have all the necessary information including an identification photo. This will make it easier for everyone to go through the process.
Call a Locksmith
The most crucial step to take in replacing lost car keys is to call a locksmith. A locksmith who has experience 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 your registration or title).
Before you call a locksmith's number However, you must ensure that you have checked every possible spot where your keys could be. Check pockets on the pants, jackets and purses. Also, check any other bags you might have used. You could also search for your keys in areas that you would not normally put them, such as on the floor under the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you've tried this, but you are still unable to locate your keys, it's time to seek help.
A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot for around $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance tow you car to a dealership to purchase a new one.
In many instances, a locksmith can also cut and program a new key for more sophisticated automobiles, such as smart keys, switchblade keys transponder keys, and switchblade keys. These keys that are more complicated may require that you provide the VIN number of your car however, professional locksmiths has the right tools to complete this on the spot for you.
The majority of locksmiths also have the ability to remove damaged or bent keys that can occur if you accidentally lock them in your car. It is best to leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. Doing it yourself could result in further damage.
A locksmith can help replace keys that are lost in your car and give advice on how to avoid future keys from being lost or stolen. The best preventative measures include keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home could assist you in avoiding losing your car key ever again.