How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired, so you change into your favorite sweats and grab a slice of pizza to watch your favorite TV show. You discover that the keys to your car have disappeared.
Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are many ways to replace the car key that was lost however the majority of these require a locksmith or dealership.
Check Your Car's Locks
It is best to look in your car first when you lose your keys. We often forget where we put them, especially when we're in a hurry or distracted. Fortunately the search for lost car keys is fairly easy if you make the effort to conduct a thorough search of your vehicle.
Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. Move the seats forward and backwards as well as up and down to search every inch of your car for your car keys. Also, feel around small compartments or zippered areas to locate keys. Also, you should carefully search your backpack, purse, or tote bag for the keys.
Many modern cars come with key fobs that let you to lock and unlock your car remotely. They usually have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to let you in and start the engine. If you've lost your car key fob, you'll have to visit the dealership to have an alternative one created.
Some older cars still use traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you have lost these keys, a locksmith could be able to make keys for you, if you have evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.
You can also purchase an upgrade from a dealer, but it will be more expensive. The dealership will need to pair a computer chip with your vehicle, which could be priced between $200 and $250, or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.
Make sure to verify your insurance policy prior to deciding to purchase a new car key. You could be able to claim on your comprehensive insurance to pay for the cost of purchasing an additional car key. Ask your insurance company if you have roadside service coverage. This can be useful should you ever require it. lost keys for car is that there are many companies offering roadside assistance plans and you should be able to find an option close to you.
Verify your vehicle's identification number (VIN).
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is 17-digit numeric and alpha code that's unique to each vehicle on the road. It is used to identify vehicles as well as track inventory. It can also be used to report crashes and thefts. In the United States the VIN is usually stamped on a label or a plate that's affixed to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb, or sometimes in front of the motor block. Your VIN can be found in other documents like your vehicle registration, title, and insurance documents.
Your VIN is unique to your car and it's recommended to store it in a safe place. That way, if you should ever lose your keys, you'll be in a position to utilize it to have the replacement key made quickly and quickly. Locksmiths can decode your VIN and retrieve the manufacturer's key code 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. You can also look for it on the door jamb on the driver's side, or in front of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. In some cases it is possible that the VIN is even embedded on your windows or windshields to provide an security measure against theft.
You can verify your VIN by entering it into a web-based VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth report on your vehicle's model, manufacturer of the body, type of engine, size, assembly facility, and the year of manufacturing.
VINs first came into use in 1954, but up to 1981, they were offered in a variety of configurations. In that year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current format of 17 characters.
If your VIN is correct, then you will be able to purchase new keys at most dealerships as well as automotive locksmiths, depending on the type of key your car requires. For instance, if you car requires an ignition chip, you'll need to go to a dealer or locksmith that can swap your key for one that will start your car. In other cases, you can buy standard keys at hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys weren't a big deal. You could easily contact your local dealer and request a new set. Today, it's more complex than that. If you're in the market to get your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always your most ideal option.
You can still get a traditional car key from a dealership, but it's best to contact an auto lock. They can get you back on the faster and for less than a dealership.
Note down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before calling someone to replace your keys. This is vital as it will be needed in order for someone to create a new replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN can be found on the driver's dashboard or found in the owner's manual.
Dealerships are able replace car keys for the majority of manufacturers. It is not a 100% warranty, however. It is dependent on your make and model, and if the keys are smart or have complicated programming. If you're not sure whether or 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 has been stolen or lost it must be replaced by a dealership. This is because the security features of your car require a specific kind of key to be reset and function properly.
The process is now more complex than it used to be, so be sure that you're willing to pay the additional price to restore this feature. In the event that your original key is lost or damaged A dealership could provide you with a duplicate backup. If you decide to go this route, make sure to carry all the information needed with you, as well as a photo ID. This will facilitate the process for everyone involved.
Contact a locksmith
Calling a locksmith is the first step to replace lost car keys. A locksmith who has experience will be able to program and cut a new car key while you are waiting. They will need the year, make, and model of your vehicle, with proof of ownership (a copy of your registration or title).
Before calling a locksmith on the phone, though, make sure that you've checked every possible spot where your keys may be. Examine the 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 you would not normally look, such as the floor behind the doorway table or underneath the couch. If you have done this, but you are still unable to locate your keys, you should contact a professional for assistance.
For keys that are traditional locksmiths is likely to be able replace keys on the spot for about $20. This is less expensive than what you would pay to have roadside assistance tow your vehicle to the dealer and purchase a replacement key.
Locksmiths can often cut and program new keys for cars equipped with more advanced features, like smart keys, transponder keys, or switchblade keys. These more complex keys may require that you provide the VIN number of your car however an experienced locksmith will have the tools to cut and program the key right on the spot for you.
Locksmiths are also able to ability to remove broken keys that are bent or broken, which can occur when you lock them accidentally in your car. Trying to remove a broken key by yourself could cause more damage, and this should be left to experts.
In addition to helping you replace keys that were lost in your car, a locksmith can also give you advice about how to stop future keys from getting misplaced or stolen. Making preventative measures, such as keeping an extra set of keys at home or in your wallet can help in ensuring that you don't lose your car keys again.