How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired and ready to put on your favorite sweatshirt, grab some pizza, and watch your favorite TV show. However, you realize the keys to your car aren't to be found.
Before you panic, know your options. There are many ways to replace a lost car key however the majority of them require a locksmith or dealership.
Check the locks on your car.
It is best to look in your car first when you lose your keys. In the end, we tend to forget where they're particularly when we're in a hurry or distracted. Fortunately, finding lost car keys isn't difficult when you make the effort to conduct an exhaustive search of your vehicle.
Begin by sitting in the driver's seat. Move the seats forward and back as well as up and down to search every inch of your car for the car key. Also, look around zippered areas or small compartments to locate keys. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag for keys.
A majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from an extended distance. These devices usually contain an internal chip that communicates with the car to allow you access to the vehicle and then start the engine. If you've lost your car's keys fob, you'll need visit a dealership to have a new one made.
Some older cars still have traditional keys made of metal that fit in an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith could be able create keys for you if you have proof of ownership like your registration or title.
You can also purchase a new replacement from a dealer, but this will be more expensive. The dealer must pair up an electronic chip to your vehicle. It could cost between $200 and $250 depending on your car's model and make.
Before you pay for an auto key replacement make sure you check your insurance policy. You may be able claim your comprehensive insurance policy to pay for the cost of buying an additional car key. Moreover, it's also important to inquire with your car insurance provider if you have roadside assistance insurance that can assist you in the event of an emergency. There are a variety of companies that provide roadside assistance plans. You should be able find one in your area.
Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (VIN)
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles as well as track inventory, report crashes and thefts, and more. In the United States the VIN is typically a sticker or a plate that is attached to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb, and sometimes on the motor block. You can also locate your VIN in other places, including your vehicle registration, title and insurance documents.
Your VIN is unique to your vehicle It's a good idea to keep it safe. This way, should you should ever lose your keys, you'll be able to utilize it to have a replacement key made quickly and quickly. A locksmith can decode your VIN to find the key code of the manufacturer for your particular model which can then be used with your lock.
The VIN is usually found on a label on the driver's-side dashboard in the area where the windshield meets it. It can also be found on the driver-side door jamb or on the front of the engine block of commercial and larger vehicles. In some instances there are instances where the VIN is even etched into your windshield or windows to provide an security measure against theft.
You can verify your VIN by entering it into a online VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth look at your vehicle, including the model, manufacturer of the body, type of engine, size, assembly facility and year of manufacturing.
VINs first came into use in 1954. However, until 1981, they were offered in various configurations. In the year 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current 17-character format.
If your VIN is correct, then you will be able to get new keys at most dealerships as well as locksmiths for automotive, based on the type of key your car requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip you will require a locksmith or dealer to replace your key. Otherwise, you can simply purchase standard keys from hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys was not an issue. You could contact your local dealership to get new keys made. It's a lot more complicated today. If you're looking to have your car keys replaced, the dealership isn't always the best option.
While you can certainly still obtain a traditional key from the dealership, your best bet is to call an auto locksmith. They're more likely be able to get you back on the road fast and likely to charge less than the dealership.
Before calling anyone to replace your car keys, make a note of the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is crucial because the person who needs it will create a replacement car key for you. The VIN is located on the dashboard of your vehicle or it could be printed in the owner's manual.
Dealerships are able replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. This isn't a warranty, however. It is all dependent on the make and model, and if the keys are smart or have complex programming. If you're unsure whether or not your dealership can help you, bring your vehicle to the dealership and request a chat with the service manager.
If your smart key was stolen or lost the key will need to be replaced by a dealership. This is because your car's security features require a specific kind of key to reset and work properly.
This process is more involved than it used to be and you should make sure you're willing to pay the extra cost to restore this feature. A dealership can also provide you with another key that's identical to the one you have in case your lost one gets 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 help make the process easier for everyone involved.
Contact an expert locksmith
The most crucial step to take in replacing lost car keys is to contact locksmith. A locksmith who has experience will be able to program and cut a new car key while you wait. They will need the year, make, and model of your vehicle with evidence of ownership (a copy your registration or title).
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, check any other bags you may have used. You can 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 this but are still unable to find your keys, then it's time to contact someone.
For keys that are traditional, a locksmith is likely to be able replace them on the spot for around $20. This is a lot less expensive than having roadside assistance take your car to a dealership to purchase a new key.
Locksmiths can often cut and program new keys for cars equipped with more advanced features, including transponder keys, smart keys or switchblade keys. These more complex keys may require that you provide the car's VIN number however an experienced locksmith has the right tools to cut and program the key right on the spot for you.
Most locksmiths also have the capability of removing broken or bent keys which can happen when you accidentally lock them in your car. Trying to remove a broken key on your own can cause more damage, and this should be left to the professionals.
A locksmith can assist you replace keys to your car that have been lost and offer advice on how to avoid the possibility of keys being lost or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home could help you to never lose your car keys ever again.
