Everything You Need To Be Aware Of Replace Lost Car Keys

How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired and ready to change into your favorite sweatshirt Grab a pizza and watch your favorite TV show. However, you realize the keys to your car aren't to be found.

Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are a few different ways to  replace lost car key  s, but most of them require the dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check Your Car's Locks

It's best to inspect your car first when you lose your keys. We often forget where they are, particularly when we're busy or distracted. Finding keys to your car may be fairly easy if your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Begin by sitting in the driver's seat. The seats can be moved back and forwards as well as up and down to search every inch of your car for your car key. Be sure to look around compartments with zippers and small spaces for keys, too. Also, you should carefully search your purse, backpack, or tote bag for the keys.

Many modern vehicles come with key fobs that let 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 obtain a new key fob if you've lost it.

Some older vehicles still have keys made of metal that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of keys, it's likely that a locksmith will be capable of creating a new key for you, as provided you have evidence of ownership, like your registration or title.

The dealer may also offer an alternative however, it will cost more. The dealership will need to integrate a computer chip into your car, which can cost $200-$250 or more depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Make sure to verify your insurance policy before you purchase a new car key. You might be able to claim on your comprehensive insurance to cover the cost of buying a new car 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 now many companies offering roadside assistance, so you are likely to find a service close to you.

Verify your vehicle's identification number (VIN).

The vehicle identification number is an alpha-numeric number that is unique to 17 numbers for every vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and track inventory, report crashes and thefts, as well as more. In the United States, the VIN is typically stamped into a label or plate on the dashboard of your car and jambs on the door of the driver's side, and sometimes in front of the engine block. Your VIN can be found in other documents like your registration for your vehicle and title as well as insurance documents.

Your VIN is unique to your vehicle and it's best to keep it somewhere safe. That way, if you should ever lose your keys, you can use it to get the replacement key made quickly and quickly. A locksmith can decode your VIN and locate the key code from the manufacturer for your particular model which can then be used with your lock.

Most passenger cars have their VIN on a sticker that's located at the point where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. It can also be found on the door jamb of the driver or in front the engine block of commercial and larger vehicles. In some instances it is possible that the VIN is even embedded into your windows or windshields as part of an anti-theft measure.

You can check your VIN by entering it into a web-based VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth report on your vehicle including the model, manufacturer, body type, engine size, assembly facility and year of production.

VINs were first used in 1954, but up to 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 correct, you can purchase new keys from a variety of dealerships or automotive locksmiths depending on the type key your vehicle requires. For example, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip you'll need to go to an auto locksmith or dealer that can replace your key with one that will be able to start your car. You can also get standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

In the past losing your car keys was not a huge deal. You could easily contact your local dealer and request a new set. It's more complicated today. If you're in the market to have your lost car keys replaced, the dealership isn't always the best option.

You can still get a traditional car key from the dealership, but it's best to call an automotive lock. They will be able get you back on your faster and for less than a dealership.

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

Dealerships can replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. It is not a 100% guarantee, however. It's dependent on the model and make of your car, as well as whether keys have complex programming. If you're not sure whether the dealership you're dealing with can assist you, bring your vehicle in and ask to 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 correctly.

The process is now more complicated than it used to be and you should make sure you're willing to pay the additional cost to restore this feature. If your original key is stolen or damaged the dealership will be able to offer you a similar backup. If you decide to take this route, be sure you have all the information needed along with you, as well as an ID photo. This will make it easier for all to complete the process.

Contact an expert locksmith

Contacting a locksmith is the first step to replace keys for your car that have been lost. An experienced locksmith will be able cut and program an entirely new key for your car while you wait. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle with evidence of ownership (a copy your registration or title).

Before you get a locksmith's number however, ensure that you've inspected all possible places where your keys might be. This includes checking the pockets of pants and jackets, purses and any other bags you might have used. You could also search for your keys in places where you don't usually put them, like on the floor under a doorway table or under the couch. If you have done this and still cannot find your keys, you should call for help.

For keys that are traditional locksmiths should be able to replace keys on the spot for about $20. This is less expensive than having roadside assistance tow you car to a dealership to purchase a new key.

Locksmiths often cut and program new keys for cars that have more advanced features, including smart keys, transponder keys or switchblade keys. These more complex keys might require that you provide the VIN number of the car, but a professional locksmith will have the tools to do this on the spot for you.

Most locksmiths also have the capability of removing broken or bent keys which can happen when you lock them accidentally in your car. The attempt to remove a broken key by yourself could cause more damage, so this task should be left to professionals.

In addition to helping you replace your keys to your car that have been lost, a locksmith can offer advice on how to avoid keys from being lost or stolen. Preventive steps, like keeping a spare set keys at home or in your wallet, can help in making sure you never lose your car keys again.