How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're exhausted and want to put on your favorite sweatshirt take a bite of pizza and binge your latest TV show. You discover that the keys to your car have disappeared.
Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are many methods to replace lost car keys however, the majority of them require the dealership or a professional locksmith.
Check the locks on your car.
It's best to inspect your car first if you lose your keys. We often forget the location of our keys, especially if we're distracted or are in a hurry. Finding keys to your car may be relatively easy when your car is thoroughly searched.
Start with the driver's seat. Make sure to inspect every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats up and down, back and forward. Be sure to feel around compartments with zippers and small spaces for keys, too. Be sure to check your backpack, purse or tote bag for keys.
A majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car from the distance. These devices usually have an internal chip that communicates to the car in order to let you into the vehicle and to start the engine. If you've lost your car key fob, you'll need visit the dealership to have a new one made.
Some older cars still use traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you have lost one of keys, it's likely that a locksmith will be in a position to make a replacement key for you as long as you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title.
The dealer can also provide an alternative however, it will cost more. The dealer will need to pair up the computer chip with your vehicle. This can cost between $200 and $250 depending on the model and make.
Before you make a payment for a car key replacement make sure you check your insurance policy. If you have comprehensive coverage, you may be able to claim on it to pay for the cost of replacing a key. Ask replacing lost car keys if you have roadside service coverage. This will come in handy in the event that you need it. The good news is that there are now many companies offering roadside assistance packages which means you are likely to find services close to you.
Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (VIN)
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit alpha and numeric code that's unique to each vehicle on the road. It 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 a sticker or a plate that's affixed to your dashboard, driver-side door jamb, or sometimes on the motor block. Your VIN can be found in other documents such as your vehicle registration, title, and insurance documents.
It is essential to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your car. In the event that you lose your keys, you'll be in a position to make use of it to get the replacement key made quickly and quickly. Locksmiths can decode your VIN to retrieve the manufacturer's key code for your specific model which can then be used with your lock.
Most passenger cars have their VIN on a label situated where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. You can also find it on the door jamb on the driver's side, or in front of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. Some VINs are permanently etched into the windows or windshields of your vehicle as a theft prevention measure.
You can check your VIN by entering it into a web-based VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth look at your vehicle's manufacturer, model, body type, engine size, assembly facility, and the year of its production.
VINs were first used in 1954, however, until 1981, they came in a variety of formats. In that year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current 17-character format.
If your VIN number is valid, you can obtain new keys from many dealerships or locksmiths for automotive based on the type key your vehicle requires. If your car has an ignition chip, you'll require an authorized locksmith or dealer to replace your key. In click , you can buy standard keys at hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys weren't an issue. You could easily contact your local dealer to purchase a new set. Today, it's more complex than it used to be. The dealership might not be the best option if you need to replace the keys to your car that you lost.
While you may 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 way faster and charge less than a dealership.
Before calling someone to replace your lost car keys, note down the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). This is important as someone will need it to create an alternative car key for you. The VIN can be found on the driver's dashboard or found in the owner's manual.
Dealerships are able replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. However, this doesn't guarantee that they'll be able help you. It is all dependent on the make and model, and whether the keys are smart or are complex in their programming. If you're not sure whether or the dealership you're dealing with can assist you, bring your vehicle 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 have to visit your dealer to get it replaced. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a specific kind of key to function correctly and reset.
The process is more complicated than it was previously, so make sure you're willing to pay a higher cost to restore this feature. A dealer can also give you a backup key that's similar to the one you have in case the lost key was damaged or stolen. If you decide to go this route, be sure you have all the required information on hand, as well as an ID photo. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.
Contact an expert locksmith
The most important step in replacing keys to your car that have been lost is to contact locksmith. A locksmith who has expertise will be able to program and cut a new car key while you wait. They will require the year model, make, and year of your vehicle, with evidence of ownership (a duplicate of your registration or title).
Be sure to check all possible locations for your keys prior to you call a locksmith. This includes checking pockets of pants and jackets, purses and any other bags you may have used. You may also search for your keys in areas that you wouldn't normally place them, like on the floor in front of the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you've tried this, but you are still unable to locate your keys, you should seek help.
For traditional keys locksmiths will be able to repair them on the spot for around $20. This is less expensive than the price you'd pay to have roadside assistance tow your car to the dealer and purchase a replacement key.
In many instances, a locksmith can also cut and program the new key for more advanced types of automobiles, including smart keys, switchblade keys and transponder keys. Some of these more complex keys require the VIN number of your car, however a locksmith will be able to do it immediately.
Many locksmiths are also able to remove broken or bent keys that are usually the result of accidentally locking them in your vehicle. If you attempt to remove a damaged key by yourself could cause more damage, so this should be left to the professionals.
A locksmith can help you replace keys to your car that have been lost and provide guidance on how to prevent future keys being misplaced or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home could assist you in avoiding losing your car key once more.