How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired, so you change into your favorite sweats and order a pizza to watch your latest TV show. However, you realize your car keys aren't to be found.
Be aware of your options before you panic. There are many methods to replace car keys that have been lost but the majority require the dealership or a professional locksmith.
Check your car's locks
It's best to check your car first if you lose your keys. We often forget the location of our keys, especially when we're distracted or in a rush. Fortunately, finding lost car keys is fairly easy if you take the time to conduct an exhaustive search in your vehicle.
Begin by sitting in the driver's seat. The seats can be moved forward and back as well as up and down to check every inch of your car for the car key. Also, check the small compartments or zippered areas to find the keys. Also, you should carefully search your backpack, purse or tote bag for the keys.
A lot of modern cars have key fobs that let you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. Usually, these devices have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to let you in and start the engine. You'll need to go to your dealer to purchase an alternative key fob if you've lost it.
Some older cars still use traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose the 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 get an upgrade from the dealership, but it will be more expensive. The dealer must pair up the computer chip with your car. This could cost between $200 and $250 dependent on the car's make and model.
Before you make a payment for a car key replacement, be sure to consider your insurance policy. If you have comprehensive coverage you may be able to claim it to pay for the cost of a replacement key. Additionally, it's important to inquire with your car insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance coverage that will help you in the event of an emergency. The good news is that there are now many companies offering roadside assistance packages, so you are likely to find an option close to you.
Verify your vehicle's identification number (VIN).
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is 17-digit numeric and alpha code that's unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and keep track of inventory, report accidents and thefts, as well as more. In the United States, the VIN is typically an image or a plate on your car's dashboard, jambs on the door of the driver's side, and sometimes on the engine block. Your VIN can be found in other places like your registration for your vehicle and title as well as insurance documents.
It's important to keep your VIN secure because it's unique to you and your vehicle. If car keys lost replacement lose your keys, you can quickly and easily get a new one that is based on the VIN. A locksmith can decode the VIN and retrieve the manufacturer's codes for your particular model. This will work with your lock.
The majority of passenger vehicles have their VIN on a label that's 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 on the side of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. Some VINs are etched directly into the windows or windshields of your vehicle as a security measure.
You can verify your VIN by entering it into a web-based VIN decoder. This will give you a complete report on your vehicle, which includes the manufacturer, make and model, body style, engine size assembly plant, and the year it was made.
VINs were first introduced in 1954, however, until 1981, they were offered in a variety. In 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 many locksmiths, automotive or dealerships based on the type key your vehicle requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip you will require an authorized locksmith or dealer to replace your key. If not, you can purchase standard keys from hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
In the past losing 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 complex than it used to be. If you're looking to have your lost car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always the best option.
While you can certainly still obtain a traditional key from the dealership, the best option is to call an auto locksmith. They're more likely to be in a position to get you back on the road quickly and probably cost less than the dealership would.
Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before calling someone to replace your lost keys. This is important because the person who needs it will create the replacement car keys for you. The VIN is located on the dashboard of your car, or may be found in the owner's guide.
Dealerships can replace keys for the majority of automobile manufacturers. However, this isn't a guarantee that they'll help you. It's dependent on the model and make of your vehicle and whether or not the keys have complex programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealer and ask for the service manager if are unsure whether they can assist.
If you have an electronic key that's been lost 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 certain type of key to be reset and function properly.
This process is more complex than it used to be so make sure you're willing to pay the extra price to have this feature restored. A dealer can also give you an alternative key that is similar to the one you have in case your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you decide to take this route, be sure to carry all the necessary information on hand and an ID photo. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.
Call a locksmith
Contacting a locksmith is the first step to replace lost keys to your car. An experienced locksmith will be able cut and program an entirely new key for your car while you wait. However, they'll require the year and make of your vehicle, as well as evidence that you own it (a copy of your registration or title will do it).
Make sure you check every possible location for your keys prior to you contact a locksmith. This includes checking the pockets of jackets and pants or purses, as well as any other bags you might have used. You may also look for your keys in places that you would not normally look for them, like the floor behind the doorway table or under the couch. If you've done this, but you are still unable to locate your keys, it's time to call for help.
A locksmith should be able to replace traditional keys on the spot for about $20. This is less than the price you'd pay to have roadside assistance take your car to a dealer and purchase a replacement key.
In many instances, a locksmith can also cut and program keys for more sophisticated cars, including smart keys, switchblade keys transponder keys, and switchblade keys. Some of these more complex keys require the VIN number of your car, however locksmiths is likely to be able complete the task immediately.
Many locksmiths are also able to remove keys that are bent or broken, which are usually caused by locking them inside your vehicle. Trying to remove a broken key on your own could cause more damage, so this task should be left to professionals.
A locksmith can assist you replace lost car keys and also offer guidance on how to prevent the possibility of keys being lost or stolen. Making preventative steps, like keeping a spare set of keys at home or in your wallet, can make a huge difference in ensuring that you never lose your car keys again.