How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired and ready to change into your favorite sweatshirt take a bite of pizza and binge your latest TV show. You realize that the keys to your car have disappeared.
Before you panic, consider your options. There are several methods to replace lost car keys however, the majority of them require the dealership or a professional locksmith.
Check your car's locks
If you lose your car keys, it's always recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. After all, we often forget where they're, especially when we're in a rush or distracted. Finding keys lost in the car can be fairly easy when your car is thoroughly searched.
Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. Examine every inch of the car by moving the seats up and down, as well as back and back and forth. Be sure to look around compartments with zippers and small spaces for keys, too. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag carefully for keys.
Many modern vehicles come with key fobs which allow you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. These devices usually include an internal chip that can communicate to the car in order to allow you into the vehicle and start the engine. If you've lost your car key fob, you'll need to visit the dealership to have a new one created.
Certain older cars still have traditional keys made of metal that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you have lost these keys, a locksmith might be able to make an alternative key for you if you have evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.
The dealer may also offer a replacement however, it will cost more. The dealership must integrate a computer chip into your vehicle, which could cost $200-$250 or more depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
Before you make a payment for the replacement of your car key make sure you check your insurance policy. If you have comprehensive coverage you might be able to claim it to cover the cost of a replacement key. It's also worthwhile to ask your insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance coverage to aid you in the case of an emergency. There are a variety of companies that provide roadside assistance programs. You should be able locate one close to you.
Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN)
The number for identification of the vehicle is a unique 17-digit alpha-numeric code for every vehicle that is on the road. It is used to identify vehicles as well as track inventory. It can also be used to report accidents and thefts. In the United States the VIN is typically stamped on a label or plate that's attached to your dashboard, driver's side door jamb, and sometimes in front of the motor block. Your VIN can be found in other documents like your registration for your vehicle and title as well as insurance documents.
It is essential to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your car. If you lose your keys you can quickly and easily get a new one that is based on the VIN. Locksmiths can decode the VIN and find the manufacturer's codes for your particular model. This will work with your lock.
The VIN is usually found on a sticker on the dashboard of the driver at the point where the windshield joins it. You can also find it on the door jamb of the driver or on the front of the engine block of larger trucks and commercial vehicles. In some instances, the VIN is even written into your windows or windshields to provide an security measure against theft.
Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with a complete report on your vehicle, including the manufacturer, make and model the body style, the engine size as well as the assembly plant year it was made.
VINs first appeared in 1954 when VINs first appeared. However, up to 1981, they were offered in different configurations. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current format of 17 characters.
If your VIN number is valid, you can obtain new keys from a variety of dealerships or automotive locksmiths depending on the type key your vehicle requires. For instance, if you 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 regular keys from hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys was not a big deal. You could contact your local dealership to get a new set of keys made. It's a lot more difficult today. If you're in the market to have your lost car keys replaced, the dealership isn't always your best option.
You can still get a traditional car key from the dealership but it is best to call an automotive lock. They can to get you back on your faster and for less than the dealership.
Before you call anyone to replace your lost car keys, note down the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). This is important as you will need it to create a replacement car key for you. The VIN is found on the dashboard of your vehicle or it could be found in the owner's manual.
Dealerships are able to replace cars keys for most manufacturers. However, this doesn't assurance that they'll be able help you. It's contingent on the model and make of your car, as well as whether keys have complicated programming. Bring your car to the dealership and ask for the service manager if are unsure whether they can help.
If you have a smart key that's been lost or stolen, you'll need to visit your dealership to get 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.
The process is more complicated than it was in the past be, so you should be prepared to pay a greater price to restore this feature. A dealership will also be able to provide you with an alternative key that is similar to the one you have in case your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you choose to go this route, make sure to have all the required information with you along with a photo ID. This will help all to complete the process.
Call a locksmith
The most important step in replacing lost car keys is to call an experienced locksmith. A locksmith with expertise will be able to program and cut a new key for your car while you wait. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle, with evidence of ownership (a copy of your registration or title).
Before you call a locksmith on the phone, though, make sure that you've checked all possible places where your keys could be. Examine the pockets on jackets, pants and purses. Also check any other bags that you may have used. You could also search for your keys in places you wouldn't normally look like the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or under the couch. If lost car key replacement tried all of this and are still struggling to locate your keys, then it's time to call someone.
For keys that are traditional, a locksmith is likely to be able replace keys on the spot for about $20. This is a lot less expensive than having roadside assistance transport your vehicle to a dealer to purchase a new key.
In many instances, a locksmith can also cut and program a new key for more advanced types of cars, including smart keys, switchblade keys and transponder keys. Some of these more complex keys require the VIN number of your car, but locksmiths is likely to be able do it in a flash.
Many locksmiths can also remove broken or bent keys that are usually the result of accidentally locking them inside your vehicle. Trying to remove a broken key on your own can cause more damage, and this should be left to experts.
A locksmith can help replace keys that are lost in your car and offer tips on how to prevent future keys from being lost or stolen. The best preventative measures include keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home will aid you in never losing your car key once more.