How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're exhausted and want to put on your favorite sweats take a bite of pizza and binge your latest TV show. However, you discover that your car keys are nowhere 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 however, the majority of these require a locksmith or a dealership.
Check your car's locks
If you've lost your keys to your car, it's best to start by checking your vehicle. After all, we often forget where they're, especially when we're in a hurry or distracted. Fortunately the search for lost car keys is fairly easy when you make the effort to conduct a thorough search of your vehicle.
Start with the driver’s seat. Examine every inch of the car by moving the seats upwards and downwards, back and forth. Also, feel around compartments with zippers or small spaces to locate the keys. You should also carefully 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 a distance. They usually have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to allow 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.
Some older vehicles still use traditional keys made of metal that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose the keys, a locksmith might be able to create an alternative key for you, if you have evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.
The dealer is also able to provide a replacement however it will cost more. The dealership must pair a computer chip with your car, which could be priced between $200 and $250, or more, based on the make and model of your car.
Before you make a payment for a car key replacement be sure to check your insurance policy. You could be able to claim your comprehensive insurance plan to cover the cost of buying a new car key. Additionally, it's important to inquire with your car insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance insurance that can assist you in the event of an emergency. There are numerous companies that provide roadside assistance plans. You should be able to find one in your area.
Check your vehicle's identification (VIN).
The vehicle identification number is an alpha-numeric code with 17 digits for each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles, monitor inventory, report crashes and thefts, as well as more. In the United States the VIN is typically stamped on a label or plate that's attached to your dashboard, driver's side door jamb and sometimes even in front of the motor block. Your VIN can be found in different places like your registration for your vehicle as well as title and insurance documents.
It's important to keep your VIN secure because it's unique to you and your car. This way, should you should ever lose your keys, you'll be able to make use of it to get an alternative key quickly and quickly. Locksmiths can decode your VIN and find the key code of the manufacturer for your specific model that will then work with your lock.
Most passenger cars have their VIN on a label placed between the windshield and the dash on the driver's side. It can also be found on the door jamb of the driver or on the side of the engine block of larger commercial and truck vehicles. Certain VINs are etched directly into the windshield or windows of your vehicle as a theft security measure.
Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an entire report on your vehicle, which includes the manufacturer, model and make, body style, engine size, assembly plant and the year it was manufactured.
lost my keys were first used in 1954, however, until 1981, they were available in a variety of configurations. In the year 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current format of 17 characters.
If your VIN is correct, then you will be able to purchase new keys at most dealerships and locksmiths for automotive, based on the type of key your car requires. For instance, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip, you'll need to go to a dealer or locksmith that can replace your key with one that will be able to start your vehicle. Otherwise, you can simply purchase standard keys from hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
A few years ago, losing your car keys was not a huge deal. You could easily contact your local dealer to purchase a new set. It's a lot more complicated today. If you're looking to get your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always your best option.
You can still purchase a traditional car key from the dealership but it is best to contact an auto lock. They're more likely be able to get you back on the road fast 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 crucial because it will be required to make a new replacement car key for your car. The VIN can be found on the driver's side dashboard, or it may be printed inside of the owner's manual.
Dealerships can replace cars keys for most manufacturers. This is not a warranty however. It is dependent on your model and make, and whether the keys are intelligent or are complex in their programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and ask for an expert in service if you aren't sure if they can help.
If your smart key has been lost or stolen it must be replaced at the dealership. This is because the security features in your car require a specific type of key in order to function correctly and reset.
This process is more involved than it used to be and you should make sure you're willing to pay the additional cost to have this feature restored. A dealership can also give you an alternative key that is similar to the original one in the event that your lost one was damaged or stolen. If you choose to go this way, make sure you have all the required information, including a photo ID. This will make the process more efficient for everyone involved.
Call a locksmith
The most important step in replacing keys to your car that have been lost is to contact an experienced locksmith. A locksmith who has experience will be able to program and cut a new key for your car while you are waiting. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle with proof of ownership (a copy of your registration or title).
Make sure you check all possible locations for your keys prior to when you call a locksmith. Examine the pockets on the pants, jackets and purses. Also, check any other bags you may have used. You could also search 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 tried all these methods and still are not able to locate your keys, it's time for you to contact someone.
A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot for about $20. This is less expensive than having roadside assistance tow you car to a dealership to purchase a new key.
Locksmiths often cut and program new keys for cars with more advanced features, such as transponder keys, smart 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 has the right tools to do this right on the spot for you.
The majority of locksmiths also have the capability of removing broken keys that are bent or broken, which can occur when you lock them accidentally in your car. It is recommended to leave the removal of a damaged key to a professional. Doing it yourself could cause more damage.
A locksmith can help you replace lost car keys and also give tips on how to prevent future keys from being lost or stolen. Making preventative steps, like keeping a spare set keys at home or in your wallet, can go a long way towards ensuring that you never lose your car keys ever again.