How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired, so you put on your favorite sweats and order a pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. But, you realize that your car keys are nowhere to be found.
Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are many ways to replace keys for cars that have been lost however, the majority of these require a locksmith or dealer.
Check the locks on your car.
It is best to look in your car first if you lose your keys. We often forget where we put them, especially when we're rushing or distracted. Finding lost car keys can be relatively easy in the event that 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 vehicle for your car key. Also, feel around compartments with zippers or small spaces to find the keys. Also, be sure to check your backpack, purse, or tote bag, for keys.
A majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car from an extended distance. These devices typically have an internal chip that communicates with the car to let you into the vehicle and start the engine. You'll need to go to your dealer to purchase an alternative key fob if you've lost it.
Some older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you have lost these keys, a locksmith could be able create keys for you if you've got evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.
The dealer can also provide a replacement however it will cost more. The dealership must connect a computer chip to your car, which can cost $200-$250 or more depending on the model and make of your car.
Make sure to verify your insurance policy prior to deciding to purchase a new car key. If you have a comprehensive insurance policy, you may be able to claim on it to cover the cost of a new key. Ask your insurance company if you have roadside service coverage. This will come in handy if you ever need it. The good news is that there are many companies offering roadside assistance packages and you are likely to find an option close to you.
Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (VIN)
The number for identification of the vehicle is a unique 17-digit alpha-numeric code for each vehicle that is on the road. It is used to identify vehicles and keep track of inventory. It can also be used to report accidents and thefts. In the United States, the VIN is typically the form of a plate or label on your car's dashboard or the driver's side door jamb and sometimes on the engine block. Your VIN can be found in other documents like your vehicle registration, title, and insurance documents.
It is important to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your vehicle. That way, if you lose your keys, you'll be able to utilize it to have a replacement key made quickly and easily. car keys lost no spare can decode your VIN and retrieve the manufacturer's codes for your particular model. This will work with your lock.
The majority of passenger vehicles have their VIN on a label that's situated between the windshield and the dash on the driver's side. You can also locate it on the door jamb for the driver or in front the engine block of larger commercial and truck vehicles. In some instances, the VIN is even written into your windows or windshields as part of an security measure to prevent theft.
You can verify your VIN by entering it into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth analysis of your vehicle including the model, manufacturer of the body, type of engine, size, assembly facility and the year of manufacture.
VINs first appeared in 1954. However, until 1981 they were available in various configurations. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current 17-character format.
If your VIN number is correct, you can get new keys from a variety of dealerships or locksmiths for automotive based on the type key your vehicle requires. If your car has an ignition chip, you will require a locksmith or dealer in order to replace your key. You can also find regular keys from hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
A few years ago the loss of your car keys wasn't an issue. You could simply call your local dealership to have new keys made. Today, it's more complicated than that. The dealership might not be the best option if you need to replace your lost car keys.
You can still purchase a traditional car key from the dealership, but it is better to contact an auto lock. They are more likely to be able to get you back on the road fast and will probably charge less than the dealership would.
Before you call anyone to replace your lost car keys, make a note of the number for your vehicle identification (VIN). This is crucial because someone will need it to create a replacement car key for you. The VIN is found on the dashboard of your car or it could be printed in the owner's guide.
Dealerships can replace car keys for the majority of manufacturers. However, this isn't a assurance that they'll be able assist you. It is all dependent on the model and make, and whether the keys are intelligent or are complex in their programming. If you're not sure whether or the dealership you're dealing with 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 need to go to your dealership in order to have it replaced. This is because the security features of your car require a certain type of key in order to be reset and function properly.
This process is more complex than it used to be, so make sure you're willing to pay a higher cost to restore this feature. If your original key is damaged or stolen, a dealership can offer you a similar backup. If you choose to go this route ensure you have all of the information needed, including an identification photo. This will make the process more efficient for everyone involved.
Call an expert locksmith
Contacting a locksmith is the first step to replace lost car keys. A skilled locksmith will be able cut and program a new key for your car while you wait. They will need the year, make, and model of your vehicle, with evidence of ownership (a copy of your registration or title).
Before you get a locksmith over the phone However, you must ensure that you've inspected every possible spot where your keys may be. Check the pockets of pants, jackets and purses. Also check any other bags that you may have used. You could also search for your keys in areas that you wouldn't normally place them, like on the floor behind the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you've tried this and still cannot find your keys, you should call for help.
A locksmith should be able to replace traditional keys on the spot, for around $20. This is a lot less expensive than having roadside assistance transport your car to a dealership to purchase a new key.
In many instances, a locksmith can also cut and program the new key for more sophisticated automobiles, such as smart keys, switchblade keys transponder keys, and switchblade keys. These more complex keys may require you to provide the VIN number of the car however, an experienced locksmith will have the tools to do this in a flash for you.
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. Doing it yourself can cause further damage.
A locksmith can assist you replace lost car keys and also give advice on how to avoid future keys being misplaced or stolen. The best preventative measures include keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home will help you to never lose your car key again.