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. You discover that your car keys are missing.
Be aware of your options prior to panic. There are a few different ways to replace car keys that have been lost but the majority require a dealership or a professional locksmith.
Check the locks on your car.
If you lose your keys to your car, it's recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. We often forget where they're particularly when we're in a rush or distracted. Finding lost car key s can be fairly easy when your car is thoroughly searched.
Start by sitting in the driver's seat. Check every inch of the car by moving the seats upwards and downwards, back and back and forth. Make sure you check zippered areas and small compartments for the keys, too. Also, you should carefully search your backpack, purse, or tote bag for the keys.
A lot of modern cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. They usually have an internal chip that communicates with the car to allow you into the vehicle and then start the engine. You'll have to visit your dealer to obtain the new key fob in case you've lost it.
Some older vehicles still use traditional keys made of metal that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you have lost one of these keys, it's likely that a locksmith will be capable of creating a new 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 dealership will need to integrate a computer chip into your vehicle, which could cost between $200 and $250 or more, depending on the make and model of your car.
Be sure to check your insurance policy prior to purchase the new car key. If you have coverage that is comprehensive you may be able to claim it to pay for the cost of a replacement key. Check with your insurance provider whether you have roadside assistance coverage. This could help in the event that you need it. The good news is that there are numerous companies that offer roadside assistance plans, so you are likely to find an option close to you.
Verify your vehicle's identification number (VIN).
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles, track inventory, report crashes and thefts, and much more. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into the form of a plate or label on your car's dashboard or driver's side door jamb, and sometimes on the engine block. You may also find your VIN in other places, such as the registration of your vehicle, title and insurance documents.
It is important to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your car. This way, should you lose your keys, you can utilize it to have the replacement key made quickly and easily. A locksmith can decode the VIN and get the manufacturer's code for the model you have. This will work with your lock.
The VIN is typically located on a sticker on the dashboard of the driver in the area where the windshield meets it. You can also find it on the door jamb on the driver's side, or in front of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. In some cases it is possible that the VIN is even embedded into your windshield or windows as part of a security measure against theft.
You can verify your VIN by entering it into a web-based VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth analysis of your vehicle, including the manufacturer, model, body type, engine size, assembly facility and the year of its production.
VINs first came into use in 1954 when VINs first appeared. However, until 1981, they were available in a variety of configurations. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current one of 17 characters.
If your VIN number is valid, you can obtain new keys from many dealerships or automotive locksmiths depending on the type key your vehicle requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip you will need to visit a locksmith or dealer in order to replace your key. In other cases, you can get standard keys from hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys was not a big deal. You could contact your local dealership to get new keys made. It's a lot more complicated today. The dealership may not be the best place to go for replacing your lost car keys.
You can still get a traditional car key from a dealership but it is best to contact an automotive lock. They're more likely be able to get you back on the road quickly and likely to charge less than the dealership.
Before calling anyone to replace your car keys, note down the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is vital as it will be needed in order for someone to create a replacement car key for your car. The VIN is located on the driver's side dashboard, or it may be included in your owner's manual.
Dealerships can repair keys for a majority of car manufacturers. However, this doesn't assurance that they'll be able assist you. It is all dependent on the model and make, and whether the keys are smart or have complex programming. If you're unsure 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 lost or stolen, you'll need to visit your dealership to get it replaced. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a specific kind of key in order to function correctly and reset.
This process is more complicated than it was in the past so make sure you're willing to pay the additional cost to restore this feature. Dealers will also be able to provide you with another key that's identical to the one you have in case the lost key was damaged or stolen. If you decide to go this way ensure that you have all of the information needed including an ID photo. This will make it easier for everyone to get through the process.
Call an expert locksmith
The most important step in replacing keys to your car that have been lost is to contact locksmith. A locksmith with experience will be able to program and cut a new car key while you wait. But, they'll require the year and make of your vehicle as well as proof 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. Check pockets on the pants, jackets and purses. Also, look through any other bags you may have used. You could also search for your keys in areas that you wouldn't normally place them, like on the floor in front of the doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried this, but you are still unable to locate your keys, you should seek help.
A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot for about $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance tow your car to a dealership to purchase a new one.
Locksmiths are often able to cut and program new keys for cars equipped with more advanced features, such as smart keys, transponder keys, or switchblade keys. These more complex keys may require you to provide the VIN number of the car however, a professional locksmith should have the right tools to do this in a flash for you.
Locksmiths are also able to capability of removing broken or bent keys, which can occur when you lock them accidentally in your car. If you attempt to remove a damaged key on your own could cause more damage, and this task should be left to the experts.
In addition to helping you replace your lost car keys locksmiths can also give you advice about how to avoid keys from being lost or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home will help you to never lose your car key again.