How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired and ready to put on your favorite sweats, grab some pizza, and watch your favorite TV show. However, you discover that your car keys are nowhere to be found.
Be aware of your options prior to be in a panic. There are many ways to replace car keys that have been lost, but most of them require a dealership or a professional locksmith.
Check the Locks on Your Car
It is best to look in your car first when you lose your keys. We often don't know where they are, especially if we're distracted or are in a hurry. Finding keys to your car may be relatively easy in the event that your vehicle is thoroughly searched.
Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. Move the seats forward and backwards as well as up and down to check every inch of your car for the car key. Also, feel around compartments with zippers or small spaces to find keys. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag carefully for keys.
Many modern cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. Usually, linked webpage have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to allow you in and start the engine. You'll need to visit your dealer to obtain the new key fob in case you've lost it.
Certain older cars still have keys made of metal that fit in an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of keys, it's likely that locksmiths will be able to create a new key for you as long as you can provide evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
You can also get an entirely new replacement from the dealership, but this will be much more expensive. The dealer will need to connect an electronic chip to your car. This can cost between $200 and $250, dependent on the car's make and model.
Make sure to verify 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 on it to pay for the cost of a new key. Moreover, it's also important to inquire with your car insurance provider if you have roadside assistance insurance that can help you in the event of an emergency. There are numerous companies that offer roadside assistance packages. You should be able to locate one close to you.
Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (VIN)
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to every vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and keep track of inventory. It is also used to report accidents and thefts. In the United States the VIN is typically stamped on a label or a plate that's affixed to your dashboard, driver-side door jamb and sometimes even on the motor block. You can also locate your VIN in other places, like the registration of your vehicle as well as title and insurance documents.
It's 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 get a new one made using the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN and locate the key code from the manufacturer specific to your lock, which will then work with your lock.
The VIN is usually found on a label on the dashboard of the driver in the area where the windshield meets it. You can also locate it on the door jamb on the driver's side, or in front of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. Some VINs are etched directly into the windshield or windows of your vehicle as a theft prevention measure.
You can check your VIN by entering it into a online 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 when VINs first appeared. However, until 1981, they were available in various configurations. In the year 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current format of 17 characters.
If your VIN is correct, then you should be able to obtain new keys at most dealerships as well as automotive locksmiths, depending on the kind of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if your car requires an ignition chip, you'll need to visit an auto locksmith or dealer that can swap your key for one that will start your vehicle. Otherwise, you can simply purchase standard keys from hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
A few years ago the loss of your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could call your local dealership to have new keys made. Nowadays, it's much more complex than it used to be. If you're looking to have your lost car keys replaced, the dealership isn't always your most ideal option.
Although you could obtain a traditional key from the dealership, your best bet is to call an auto locksmith. They will be able to get you back on your way faster and charge less than a dealership.
Before calling someone to replace your lost car keys, note down the number for your vehicle identification (VIN). This is vital as it will be required in order for someone to make a new replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN is located on the dashboard of the driver's side, or it may be printed inside of your owner's manual.
Dealerships are able to replace keys for the majority of automobile manufacturers. However, this doesn't guarantee that they'll assist you. It is all dependent on the make and model, and whether the keys are smart or are complex in their programming. If you're not sure whether or your dealer can assist you, bring your vehicle in and ask to speak with the service manager.
If you have a smart key that's been lost or stolen, you'll need to visit your dealer in order to have it replaced. This is because the security features of your car require a specific type of key in order to be reset and function properly.
The process is more complicated than it was previously be, so you should be prepared to pay a higher cost to restore this feature. If your original key is lost or damaged, a dealership can offer you a similar backup. If you opt to do this, make sure you have all of the required information, including a photo ID. This will facilitate the process for everyone involved.
Call a locksmith
Contacting a locksmith is the first step in replacing lost car keys. A locksmith who has experience will be able to program and cut a new key for your car while you are waiting. However, they will need to know the year model, make and model of your vehicle, as well as proof that you own it (a copy of your registration or title will do it).
Before you call a locksmith over the phone, though, make sure that you've inspected every possible place where your keys might be. This includes checking the pockets of pants and jackets or purses, as well as any other bags you've used. You could also search for your keys in places that you would not normally look, such as the floor behind the doorway table or underneath the couch. If you have done this and still cannot find your keys, you should contact a professional for assistance.
A locksmith should be able to replace traditional keys on the spot, at a cost of around $20. This is less expensive than having roadside assistance transport you car to a dealership to buy a new key.
Locksmiths are often able to cut and program new keys for cars equipped with more advanced features, including smart keys, transponder keys or switchblade keys. Some of these more complicated keys require you to provide the VIN number for your car, but a locksmith is likely to be able cut and program the key immediately.
Many locksmiths can also take out keys that are bent or broken, which are usually the result of accidentally locking them inside your vehicle. It is recommended that you leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. Trying to do it yourself could cause more damage.
A locksmith can help you replace keys to your car that have been lost and provide tips on how to prevent future keys being misplaced or stolen. Making preventative measures, such as keeping a spare set keys at home or in your wallet can go a long way towards ensuring that you don't lose your car keys again.