how to replace a lost car key to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted, so you change into your favorite sweats and grab a slice of pizza to watch your favorite TV show. However, you discover that the keys to your car aren't to be found.

Before you panic, know your options. There are a few different ways to replace car keys that have been lost however, the majority of them require a dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check the Locks on Your Car

It's best to check your car first when you lose your keys. We often forget where they are, particularly when we're distracted or in a rush. Fortunately the search for lost car keys is fairly easy when you take the time to conduct a thorough search of your vehicle.

Start by sitting in the driver's seat. Check every inch of the car by moving the seats up and down, as well as back and forward. Be sure to feel around compartments with zippers and small spaces for the keys, too. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag carefully for keys.

A lot of modern cars have key fobs which allow you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. They usually have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car in order to let you in and start the engine. You'll have to visit your dealer to purchase a new key fob if you've lost it.

Certain older cars still have keys made of metal that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you have lost one of keys, it's likely that a locksmith will be able to create a new key for you, as long as you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.

You can also purchase an upgrade at the dealership, however it will be more expensive. The dealership must integrate a computer chip into your car, which could cost $200-$250 or more depending on the model and make of your vehicle.

Before you pay for the replacement of your car key be sure to check your insurance policy. You could be able to claim on your comprehensive insurance policy to cover the cost of buying an additional car key. Ask your insurance company whether you have roadside assistance coverage. This will come in handy if you ever need it. There are many companies that offer roadside assistance packages. You should be able locate one close to you.

Check 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, keep track of inventory, report accidents and thefts, as well as more. In the United States the VIN is typically stamped on a label or a plate that is attached to your dashboard, driver's side door jamb and sometimes even in front of the motor block. Your VIN can be found in different places like your vehicle registration, title, and insurance documents.

It's important to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your car. If you lose your keys you can easily and quickly obtain a new key made using the VIN. Locksmiths can decode your VIN to locate the key car lost code from the manufacturer specific to your lock which can then be used with your lock.

The VIN is usually located on a sticker on the dashboard of the driver, where the windshield meets it. You can also find it on the door jamb of the driver or in front the engine block of larger commercial and truck vehicles. Some VINs are etched directly into the windshield or windows of your vehicle to serve as a security measure.

You can verify your VIN by entering it into a online VIN decoder. This will provide you with a complete report on your vehicle, including manufacturer, make and model body style, engine size assembly plant, and the year of its production.

VINs first appeared in 1954 when VINs first appeared. However, until 1981 they were available in various configurations. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current format of 17 characters.

If your VIN is correct, then you should be able to purchase new keys at the majority of dealerships and locksmiths for automotive, based on the kind of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if you vehicle requires an ignition chip, you'll have to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer who can replace your key with one that will start your car. In other cases, you can get standard keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

In the past losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could simply call your local dealership to have a new set of keys made. Today, it's more complicated than that. The dealership may not be the best place to go if you need to replace your car keys that have been lost.

You can still get a traditional car key from the dealership, but it's best to call an automotive lock. They're more likely be able to get you back on the road fast and likely to charge less than the dealership would.

Note down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before calling someone to replace your lost keys. This is important because someone will need it to create the replacement car keys for you. The VIN can be found on the driver's side dashboard, or it may be found in your owner's manual.

Dealerships can repair keys for the majority of car manufacturers. This isn't a assurance, however. It all depends on your model and make, and whether the keys are smart or have complicated programming. If you're not sure whether or your dealer can assist you, bring your car to the dealership and request a chat with the service manager.

If you have a smart key that's been 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 used to, so make sure you're prepared to pay a higher cost to restore this feature. In the event that your original key is stolen or damaged A dealership could provide you with an identical backup. If you choose to go this route, make sure to carry all the required information on hand, as well as an ID photo. This will help all to complete the process.

Call a Locksmith

The most important step to take when replacing keys to your car that have been lost key car is to call a locksmith. An experienced locksmith will be able cut and program an entirely new key for your vehicle while you wait. However, they will require the year model, make and model of your vehicle, as well as proof that you own it (a copy of your registration or title should suffice).

Make sure to look over every possible location for your keys prior to when you call a locksmith. Check pockets on jackets, pants and purses. Also, check any other bags that you may have used. You may also search for your keys in places where you don't usually put them, like on the floor in front of a doorway table or under the couch. If you have done this but are still unable to locate your keys, you should seek help.

For traditional keys locksmiths will be able to repair them in a matter of $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance transport you car to a dealership to purchase a new key.

Locksmiths often program and cut new keys for cars that have more advanced features, including transponder keys, smart keys or switchblade keys. Some of these more complex keys require the VIN number for your car, however locksmiths is likely to be able complete the task on the spot.

Many locksmiths can also remove keys that are bent or broken, which are usually caused by locking them in your vehicle. It is recommended that you leave the removal of a damaged key to professionals. Doing it yourself can cause further damage.

A locksmith can assist you replace keys to your car that have been lost and give advice on how to avoid future keys from being lost or stolen. Prevention measures like keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home can assist you in avoiding losing your car key again.