How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted, so you put on your favorite sweats and order a pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. But, you realize that your car keys are nowhere to be found.

Before you panic, know your options. There are several ways to replace the car key that was lost, but the majority of these require a locksmith or dealership.

Check the locks on your car.

If you've lost your car keys, it's always recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. After all, we often forget where we've put them particularly when we're in a rush or distracted. Finding keys lost in the car can be relatively easy in the event that your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Start with the driver’s seat. Make sure to inspect every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats up and down, as well as back and forth. Also, look around small compartments or zippered areas to find keys. Examine your backpack, purse or tote bag carefully for keys.

Many modern cars have key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car from the distance. These devices usually have an internal chip that can communicate to the car in order to allow you access to the vehicle and then start the motor. If you've lost your car's keys fob, you'll need go to the dealership to get an alternative one created.

Some older vehicles still have traditional metal keys that fit in an ignition cylinder. If you lose the keys, a locksmith could be able to make keys for you, if you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.

The dealer may also offer an alternative however it will cost more. The dealer must connect a computer chip for your vehicle. This can cost between $200 and $250, depending on your car's make and model.

Be sure to check your insurance policy prior to deciding to purchase the new car key. If you have a comprehensive insurance policy you may be able to claim it to cover the cost of replacing a key. Moreover, it's also worth asking your car insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance coverage to assist you in the event of an emergency. There are numerous companies that offer roadside assistance programs. You should be able to find one in your area.

Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (VIN)

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit numeric and alpha code that's unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and track inventory. It is also used to report accidents and thefts. In the United States the VIN is usually stamped on a label or a plate that's affixed to your dashboard, driver-side door jamb and sometimes even in front of the motor block. Your VIN can be found in other places like your registration for your vehicle, title, and insurance documents.

It is important to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your car. If you lose your keys you can easily and quickly obtain a new one made using the VIN. 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 located on a label that is placed on the dashboard of the driver at the point where the windshield joins it. You can also look for it on the door jamb on the driver's side or on the side of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. Certain VINs are etched directly into the windows or windshields of your vehicle to serve as a security measure.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with a complete report on your vehicle, which includes the manufacturer, make and model the body style, the engine size assembly plant, and the year it was made.

VINs first appeared in 1954. However, until 1981, they were offered 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 valid, you can obtain new keys from most locksmiths, automotive or dealerships based on the type key your vehicle requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip, you'll have to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer to replace your key. You can also get regular keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys weren't a big deal. You could simply call your local dealer to purchase a new set. It's more complicated today. The dealership might not be the best option for replacing your lost keys for my car car keys.

While you may obtain a traditional key from the dealership, the best choice is to call an auto locksmith. They're more likely to be able to get you back on the road in a hurry and likely to charge less than the dealership would.

Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you call someone to replace your lost keys. This is important because the person who needs it will create a replacement car key for you. The VIN is located on the driver's dashboard or printed inside of the owner's manual.

Dealerships are able replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. However, this doesn't guarantee that they'll assist you. It's contingent on the make and model of your car, as well as whether keys are equipped with complex programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and request an expert in service if you aren't sure if they can help.

If your smart key was stolen or lost the key will need to be replaced by a dealership. This is because the security features of your car require a particular type of key to reset and function correctly.

The process is now more involved than it was in the past and you should make sure you're willing to pay the additional price to have this feature restored. If your original key is stolen or damaged, a dealership can provide you with an identical backup. If you choose to go this route, be sure to have all the information needed with you, as well as an identification photo. This will make the process more efficient for everyone involved.

Call a Locksmith

The most crucial step to take 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. They will need the year model, make, and year of your vehicle, with evidence of ownership (a copy your registration or title).

Be sure to check all possible locations for your keys prior to when you call a locksmith. Check the pockets of the pants, jackets and purses. Also, look through any other bags that 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 table behind the doorway or underneath the couch. If you've tried all of this and are still struggling to locate your keys, then it's time for you to contact someone.

For keys that are traditional, a locksmith is likely to be able replace them in a matter of $20. This is cheaper than the price you'd pay to have roadside assistance take your car to a dealership and buy a replacement key.

In many cases, a locksmith can also cut and program a new key for more sophisticated cars, including smart keys, switchblade keys, and transponder keys. Certain of these keys require you to provide the VIN number for your vehicle, but locksmiths is likely to be able do it in a flash.

The majority of locksmiths also have the ability to remove broken or bent keys that can occur if you lock them accidentally in your car. It is recommended to leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. Doing it yourself could result in further damage.

In addition to helping you replace lost car keys, a locksmith can also provide advice on How to replace lost car key to avoid keys from being lost or stolen. Taking preventative measures, such as keeping an extra set of keys at home or in your wallet, can go a long way towards ensuring that you never lose your car keys again.