How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're exhausted and want to put on your favorite sweats Grab a pizza and binge your latest TV show. You discover that the keys to your car have disappeared.
Know your options before you be in a panic. There are a few different methods to replace lost car keys, but most of them involve the dealership or a professional locksmith.
Check the locks on your car.
If you lose your keys to your car, it's best to start by checking your vehicle. After all, we often forget where we've put them especially when we're in a hurry or distracted. Fortunately finding keys to your car is relatively easy if you take the time to do an exhaustive search of your vehicle.
Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. Make sure to inspect every inch of the car by moving the seats up and down, back and back and forth. Be sure to feel around compartments with zippers and small spaces for the keys, too. Examine your backpack, purse or tote bag with care for keys.
A lot of modern cars come with key fobs that allow you to 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. If you've lost your car key fob, you'll need visit a dealership to have an alternative one created.
Some older vehicles still have traditional metal keys that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of these keys, it's possible that a locksmith will be in a position to make a replacement key for you, as provided you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
The dealer is also able to provide the 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 model and make of your car.
Before you pay for the replacement of your car key, be sure to consider your insurance policy. If you have coverage that is comprehensive, you may be able to claim it to pay for the cost of a new key. Additionally, lost keys of car asking your car insurance provider if you have roadside assistance coverage to assist you in the event of an emergency. The good news is that there are now numerous companies that offer roadside assistance which means you will be able to locate a service close to you.
Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN)
The vehicle identification number is an alpha-numeric code with 17 digits for 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 stamped into a label or plate on the dashboard of your car and the driver's side door jamb and sometimes on the engine block. Your VIN can be found in other documents like your vehicle registration as well as title and insurance documents.
It is essential to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your car. If you lose your keys you can quickly and easily get new keys that is based on the VIN. A locksmith can decode the VIN and find the manufacturer's codes for your particular model. This will work with your lock.
The VIN is typically located on a label on the dashboard of the driver, where the windshield meets it. You can also find it on the driver-side door jamb or in front the engine block of larger commercial and truck vehicles. Some VINs are permanently etched into the windows or windshields of your vehicle as a prevention measure.
Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth report on your vehicle including the model, manufacturer, body type, engine size, assembly facility and the year of its production.
VINs first came into use in 1954, but until 1981, they were available 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 get new keys from many dealerships or automotive locksmiths depending on the type of key your vehicle requires. If your car has an ignition chip, you'll have to visit a locksmith or dealer to replace your key. Otherwise, you can simply buy standard keys at hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
Not long ago losing your car keys was not an issue. You could just call your local dealership to have a new set of keys made. Nowadays, it's much more complex than it used to be. If you're looking to get your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always your best option.
While you can certainly still get a traditional key at the dealership, your best bet is to contact an automotive locksmith. They're more likely to be able to get you back on the road in a hurry and will probably charge less than the dealership.
Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you contact someone to replace your keys. This is important because it will be needed to make a new replacement car key for your car. The VIN is found on the dashboard of your car or could be printed in your owner's guide.
Dealerships are able replace car keys for the majority of manufacturers. However, this doesn't guarantee that they'll be able assist you. It is dependent on your model and make, as well as whether the keys are intelligent or have complicated programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and request an expert in service if you are unsure if they can assist.
If your smart key has been stolen or lost, it will need to be replaced at the dealership. This is because the security features of your car require a specific kind of key to reset and function properly.
This process is more complex than it was in the past be, so you should be willing to pay a higher price to restore this feature. Dealers can also provide you with an alternative key that is similar to the one you have in case your lost one was damaged or stolen. If you decide to take this route, make sure to carry all the information needed on hand, as well as an identification photo. This will make it easier for everyone to get through the process.
Contact a locksmith
The most crucial step to take in replacing lost car keys is to contact a locksmith. A skilled locksmith will be able cut and program an entirely new key for your vehicle while you wait. They will need the year, make, and model of your vehicle, with proof of ownership (a copy your registration or title).
Before calling a locksmith on the phone However, you must ensure that you've checked every possible spot where your keys could be. This includes checking pockets of jackets and pants, purses and any other bags you've used. You may also search for your keys in areas that you wouldn't normally place them, such as on the floor in front of the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you have done this and still cannot find your keys, you should contact a professional for assistance.
For keys that are traditional locksmiths is likely to be able replace them on the spot for around $20. This is less expensive than having roadside assistance take your car to a dealership to buy a new key.
Locksmiths can often cut and program new keys for cars with more advanced features, like transponder keys, smart keys, or switchblade keys. Certain of these keys require you to provide the VIN number for your vehicle, but a locksmith should be able to complete the task immediately.
Many locksmiths are also able to remove keys that are bent or broken, which are usually the result of accidentally locking them in your vehicle. It is best to leave the removal of a damaged key to professionals. If you attempt to do it yourself could cause more damage.
A locksmith can help you replace lost car keys and also offer advice on how to avoid future keys from being lost or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home can aid you in never losing your car key again.