How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted and want to put on your favorite sweatshirt Grab a pizza and watch the latest TV show. However, you discover that your car keys are nowhere to be found.

Before you panic, consider your options. There are many ways to replace lost keys replacement car keys, but most of them 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. After all, we often forget where they're particularly when we're in a hurry or distracted. Finding lost car keys can be relatively easy if your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Start by sitting in the driver's seat. Move the seats forward and back as well as up and down to check every inch of your vehicle for your car key. Also, look around zippered areas or small compartments to locate keys. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag for keys.

Many modern cars come with key fobs which allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. Usually, these devices have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car in order to let you in and start the engine. You'll need to visit your dealer to obtain a new key fob if you've lost it.

Some older cars still use traditional metal keys that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose the keys, a locksmith might be able create an alternative key for you if you've got evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.

The dealer can also provide the replacement however it will cost more. The dealership will need to integrate a computer chip into your vehicle, which could be priced between $200 and $250, or more, based on the model and make of your car.

Be sure to check your insurance policy before you purchase the new car key. You might be able to claim on your comprehensive insurance to pay for the cost of buying a new car key. Ask your insurance company whether you have roadside assistance coverage. This could be useful if you ever need it. There are numerous companies that provide roadside assistance packages. You should be able find one near you.

Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (VIN)

The number for identification of the vehicle is an alpha-numeric code with 17 digits for every vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles as well as track inventory, report crashes and thefts, as well as more. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into an image or a plate on your car's dashboard or driver's side door jamb, and sometimes in front of the engine block. You may also find your VIN in other places, including the registration of your vehicle title, insurance and title documents.

It's important to keep your VIN secure because it's unique to you and your vehicle. If you 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 get the manufacturer's codes for your particular model. This will work with your lock.

The VIN is usually located on a label on the driver's-side dashboard, where the windshield meets it. You can also look for it on the driver's side door jamb or on the side of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. In some instances there are instances where the VIN is even etched into your windshield or windows as part of a security measure to prevent theft.

Enter your VIN into an online 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 manufacture.

VINs were first used in 1954, but until 1981, they were offered in a variety of formats. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current 17-character format.

If your VIN number is correct, you can get new keys from many locksmiths, automotive or dealerships based on the type key your vehicle requires. If your car has an ignition chip, you'll need to visit a locksmith or dealer in order to replace your key. You can also find basic keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

A few years ago losing your car keys was not an issue. You could simply call your local dealer and request a new set. Nowadays, it's much more complicated than that. The dealership might not be the best place to go in case you want to replace your car keys that have been lost key to car no spare.

You can still get a traditional car key from a dealership, but it's best to contact an automotive lock. They're more likely be in a position to get you back on the road in a hurry and will probably charge less than the dealership.

Before calling someone to replace your lost car keys, write down the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). This is important because it will be needed to make a new replacement car key for your car. The VIN is located on the dashboard of your vehicle or could be found in the owner's guide.

Dealerships are able to replace car keys for the majority of manufacturers. This isn't a warranty, however. It is dependent on your make and model, and whether the keys are intelligent or are complex in their programming. If you're not sure whether your dealer can assist you, bring your car into the store and speak with the service manager.

If your smart key was stolen or lost the key will need to be replaced at the dealership. This is because your car's security functions require a particular type of key to reset and work properly.

The process is more complicated than it used to be, so you should be prepared to pay a greater price to restore this feature. Dealers will also be able to provide you with an alternative key that is similar to the original in case your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you decide to go this route, be sure you have all the necessary information along with you and an identification photo. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.

Call a locksmith

The most crucial step to take in replacing lost car keys is to contact a locksmith. A locksmith who has experience will be able program and cut a new car key while you are waiting. They will need the year model, make, and year of your vehicle, along with evidence of ownership (a copy of your registration or title).

Make sure you check all possible locations for your keys before you contact a locksmith. Check the pockets of jackets, pants and purses. Also check any other bags that you might have used. You could also search for your keys in places that you wouldn't normally place them, such as on the floor behind a doorway table or under the couch. If you have done this, but you are still unable to locate your keys, you should contact a professional for assistance.

For traditional keys, a locksmith will be able to repair keys on the spot for around $20. This is less expensive than having roadside assistance tow you car to a dealership to purchase a new one.

Locksmiths often cut and program new keys for cars that have more advanced features, like transponder keys, smart keys, or switchblade keys. Some of these more complicated keys require you to provide the VIN number for your car, however locksmiths will be able to do it on the spot.

Many locksmiths can also remove bent or broken keys that are usually caused by locking them in your vehicle. The attempt to remove a broken key on your own could cause more damage, and this is something that should be left to the experts.

In addition to helping you replace your keys to your car that have been lost, a locksmith can offer advice on how to replace lost car key (simply click for source) to stop future keys from being lost or stolen. Prevention measures like keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home will help you to never lose your car key again.