How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted, so you change into your sweats and order a pizza to watch your favorite TV show. You realize that your car keys are missing.

Know your options before you be in a panic. There are many ways to replace a lost car key however the majority of these require a locksmith or a dealership.

Check your car's locks

When you lose car keys, it's always recommended to first check your vehicle. After all, we often forget where we've put them especially when we're in a hurry or distracted. Finding lost car keys cost to replace car keys can be fairly simple 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 upwards and downwards, back and forward. Also, check the small compartments or zippered areas to locate keys. You should also carefully check your purse, backpack, or tote bag, for keys.

A majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from an extended distance. They usually have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to allow you in and start the engine. If you've lost your car key fob, you'll need go to the dealership to get an alternative one created.

Certain older cars still have keys made of metal that fit in an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of these keys, it's possible that a locksmith will be in a position to make a replacement key for you, as long as you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title.

You can also purchase an upgrade from the dealership, but this will be much more expensive. The dealership will need to connect a computer chip to your car, which can be priced between $200 and $250, or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.

Make sure you check your insurance policy prior to purchase a new car key. If you have a comprehensive insurance policy you might be able to claim on it to pay for the cost of a new key. Check with your insurance provider if you have roadside service coverage. This will be useful if you ever need it. There are many companies that offer roadside assistance packages. You should be able to find one in your area.

Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (VIN)

The vehicle identification number is an alpha-numeric code with 17 digits for every vehicle that is on the road. It's used to identify vehicles as well as 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 plate that's attached to your dashboard, driver-side door jamb and sometimes even behind the motor block. Your VIN can be found in other places like your registration for your vehicle as well as title and insurance documents.

It's important to keep your VIN secure because it's unique to you and your vehicle. If you lose your keys, you can quickly and easily get a new key made using the VIN. Locksmiths can decode your VIN and find the key code of the manufacturer specific to your lock, which will then work with your lock.

The VIN is usually found on a label that is placed on the dashboard of the driver in the area where the windshield meets it. You can also locate it on the driver's side door jamb or on the side of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. Certain VINs are etched directly into the windshield or windows of your vehicle to serve as a prevention measure.

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

VINs first appeared in 1954. However, up to 1981 they were available in different configurations. In the year 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current 17-character format.

If your VIN number is valid, you can obtain new keys from a variety of locksmiths, automotive or dealerships based on the type key your vehicle requires. If your car has an ignition chip you will require an authorized locksmith or dealer to replace your key. You can also find standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

Not long ago, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could simply contact your local dealer to have a new set of keys made. It's a lot more complicated today. The dealership might not be the best place to go if you need to replace lost key car key (conversational tone) the keys to your car that you lost.

You can still get a traditional car key from a dealership but it is best to contact an auto lock. They're more likely to be capable of getting you back on the road fast and probably cost less than the dealership would.

Before you contact someone to replace your lost car keys, make a note of the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). This is vital as it will be needed to create a replacement car key for your car. The VIN can be found on the driver's dashboard, or it may be printed inside of your owner's manual.

Dealerships are able replace cars keys for most manufacturers. This isn't a guarantee however. It all depends on your model and make, as well as whether the keys are smart or have complicated programming. If you're not sure whether or your dealer can assist you, bring your car in and ask to speak with the service manager.

If you have a smart key that's been lost or stolen, you'll have to visit your dealership to get it replaced. This is because your car's security features require a specific type of key to be reset and function properly.

This process is more complex than it was in the past be, so make sure you're prepared to pay a greater cost to restore this feature. If your original key is damaged or stolen, a dealership can provide you with a duplicate backup. If you decide to do this ensure that you have all of the information needed, including an identification photo. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.

Call an expert locksmith

Contacting a locksmith is the first step to replace lost key to car no spare keys to your car. A skilled locksmith can cut and program the new key for your car while you wait. But, they'll 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 do it).

Make sure you check all possible locations for your keys prior to you call a locksmith. This includes checking the pockets of jackets and pants as well as purses and other bags you might have used. You can also search for your keys in places where you would not normally look, such as the floor behind the doorway table or under the couch. If you have done this and still cannot find your keys, it's time to contact a professional for assistance.

For traditional keys, a locksmith is likely to be able replace them on the spot for around $20. This is less expensive than having roadside assistance tow your car to a dealership to purchase a new one.

Locksmiths can often program and cut new keys for cars with more advanced features, including transponder keys, smart keys or switchblade keys. These keys that are more complicated may require that you provide the VIN number of the car however a professional locksmith will have the tools to cut and program the key on the spot for you.

Many locksmiths are also able to remove broken or bent keys that are often caused by accidentally locking them in your vehicle. Trying to remove a broken key on your own can cause more damage, so this is something that should be left to the experts.

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