How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired, so change into your sweats and order a pizza to watch your latest TV show. But, you realize that the keys to your car aren't to be found.
Be aware of your options prior to panic. There are a variety of ways to replace keys for cars that have been lost, but the majority of these require a locksmith or dealer.
Check the locks on your car.
If you lose your car keys, it's always recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. In the end, we tend to forget where we've put them especially when we're rushing or distracted. Fortunately the search for lost car keys is fairly easy when you take the time to conduct an exhaustive search of your vehicle.
Start by sitting in the driver's seat. The seats can be moved forward and backwards as well as up and down to check every inch of your vehicle for your car key. Also, look around compartments with zippers or small spaces to find the keys. Also, be sure to check your purse, backpack, or tote bag for the keys.
Many modern vehicles come with key fobs which allow you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. These devices usually have an internal chip that connects to the car to let you into the vehicle and start the motor. If you've lost your car's key fob, you'll need to go to the dealership to get an alternative one created.
Some older vehicles still use traditional metal keys that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith might be able to make an alternative key for you if you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
You can also get a new replacement from the dealership, but this will be more expensive. The dealer will need to pair up a computer chip for your car. It could cost between $200 and $250 dependent on the car's model and make.
Make sure you check your insurance policy before you purchase a new car key. If you have coverage that is comprehensive you may be able to claim on it to pay for the cost of a replacement key. Additionally, it's important to inquire with your car insurance company if they have roadside assistance insurance that can aid you in the case of an emergency. 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.
Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (VIN)
The number for identification of the vehicle is an alpha-numeric number that is unique to 17 numbers for every vehicle that is on the road. It is used to identify vehicles as well as track inventory. It can also be used to report crashes and thefts. In the United States, the VIN is typically stamped into a label or plate on your car's dashboard, jambs on the door of the driver's side, and sometimes, in front of the engine block. Your VIN can be found in different places such as your vehicle registration, title, and insurance documents.
Your VIN is unique to your vehicle, so it's best to keep it in a safe place. This way, should you ever lose your keys, you can use it to get a replacement key made quickly and quickly. A locksmith can decode your VIN to find the key code of the manufacturer for your specific model which can then be used with your lock.
The majority of passenger cars have their VIN on a label that's situated at the point where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. You can also find it on the door jamb for the driver's side or on the side of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. In some cases there are instances where the VIN is even embedded into your windows or windshields to provide an anti-theft measure.
Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth analysis of your vehicle including the manufacturer, model of the body, type of engine, size, assembly facility and the year of production.
VINs were first used in 1954, however, until 1981, they came in a variety of configurations. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs 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 of key your vehicle requires. If your car has an ignition chip, you will need to visit a locksmith or dealer to replace your key. Otherwise, you can simply get standard keys from hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
Not long ago losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could just contact your local dealer to get a new set of keys made. Today, it's more complex than it used to be. If you're in the market to have your lost car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always the best option.
You can still purchase a traditional car key from the dealership but it is best to contact an automotive lock. They are more likely to be in a position to get you back on the road in a hurry and likely to charge less than the dealership would.
Before you contact anyone to replace your lost car keys , make a note of the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is important because it will be needed in order for someone to create a replacement car key for your car. The VIN is on the dashboard of your car or could be printed in your owner's guide.
Dealerships can repair keys for the majority of car manufacturers. However, this doesn't assurance that they'll be able to assist you. It is all dependent on the model and make, as well as if the keys are smart or have complex programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealer and request a service manager if you aren't sure if they can assist.
If you have an electronic key that's been lost or stolen, you'll have to visit your dealership to get it replaced. This is because the security features of your car require a specific type of key to be reset and function correctly.
The process is now more complicated than it was in the past so make sure you're willing to pay the extra price to restore this feature. Dealers will also be able to provide you with a backup key that's similar to the one you have in case your lost one was damaged or stolen. If you decide to go this way ensure that you have all the required information including a photo ID. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.
Contact a locksmith
Calling a locksmith is the first step to replace keys for your car that have been lost. A locksmith who has experience will be able to program and cut a new key for your car while you wait. However, they'll require the year model, make and model of your vehicle, as well as evidence that you own it (a copy of your registration or title should do it).
Make sure you check all possible locations for your keys before you contact a locksmith. Check pockets on jackets, pants and purses. Also check any other bags you may have used. You can also look for your keys in areas where you don't usually put them, such as on the floor in front of a doorway table or under the couch. If you have done this and still cannot find your keys, it's time to call for help.
A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot at a cost of around $20. This is less expensive than having roadside assistance tow your vehicle to a dealer to purchase a new key.
Locksmiths are often able to cut and program new keys for cars that have more advanced features, such as transponder keys, smart keys or switchblade keys. Some of these more complicated keys require the VIN number for your vehicle, but locksmiths is likely to be able complete the task on the spot.
Locksmiths are also able to ability to remove damaged keys that are bent or broken which can happen when you accidentally lock them in your car. It is best to leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. If you attempt to do it yourself could cause more damage.
In addition to helping you replace your keys that were lost in your car, a locksmith can give you advice about how to stop future keys from getting misplaced or stolen. Making preventative measures, such as keeping a spare set of keys at home or in your wallet, can help in ensuring that you don't lose your car keys ever again.