How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're exhausted, so you change into your favorite sweats and order a pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. However, you discover that the keys to your car aren't to be found.
Be aware of your options prior to get in a panic. There are a few different ways to replace lost car keys but the majority require a dealership or a professional locksmith.
Check the locks on your car.
If you've lost your keys to your car, it's recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. We often don't know the location of our keys, especially when we're distracted or are in a hurry. Finding keys to your car may be fairly easy if your vehicle is thoroughly searched.
Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. The seats can be moved back and forwards as well as up and down to check every inch of your vehicle for your car keys. Also, check the small compartments or zippered areas to find keys. Be sure to check your backpack, purse or tote bag with care for keys.
Many modern vehicles come with key fobs which allow you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. Most of the time, these devices come with an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car in order to let you in and start the engine. If you've lost your car key fob, you'll need visit the dealership to have a new one made.
Some older cars still use traditional keys made of metal that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If key car lost have lost these keys, a locksmith may be able to make an alternative key for you if you have proof of ownership like your registration or title.
You can also purchase an entirely new replacement at the dealership, however this will be more expensive. The dealership will have to integrate a computer chip into your vehicle, which could be priced between $200 and $250, or more, based on the make and model of your vehicle.
Before you make a payment for an auto key replacement make sure you check your insurance policy. If you have comprehensive coverage, you may be able to claim on it to cover the cost of a new key. Moreover, it's also worthwhile to ask your insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance coverage that will help you in the event of an emergency. There are a variety of companies that provide roadside assistance programs. You should be able find one in your area.
Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (VIN)
The number for identification of the vehicle is an alpha-numeric code with 17 digits for every vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and track inventory. It is also used to report crashes and thefts. In the United States, the VIN is typically stamped into an image or a plate on the dashboard of your vehicle and the driver's side door jamb and sometimes, in front of the engine block. You may also find your VIN in other places, like your vehicle registration title, insurance and title documents.
It is important to keep your VIN secure because it's unique to you and your vehicle. This way, should you should ever lose your keys, you'll be able to make use of it to get an alternative key quickly and easily. A locksmith can decode your VIN to locate the key code from the manufacturer specific to your lock, which will then work with your lock.
The VIN is usually located on a label on the dashboard of the driver in the area where the windshield meets it. You can also look for it on the driver's side door jamb or on the side of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. In some cases there are instances where the VIN is even etched into your windows or windshields to provide an anti-theft measure.
Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth look at your vehicle, including the manufacturer, model body type, engine size, assembly facility, and the year of its manufacture.
VINs first came into use in 1954, when VINs were first introduced. However, until 1981, they were offered in various configurations. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current 17-character format.
If your VIN is correct, then you should be able to purchase new keys at most dealerships and automotive locksmiths, depending on the kind of key your vehicle requires. For example, 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 be able to start your car. Otherwise, you can simply buy standard keys at hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
Not long ago, losing your car keys was not a huge deal. You could contact your local dealership to get a new set of keys made. Today, it's a lot more complicated than that. The dealership might not be the best option for replacing your lost car keys.
While you may obtain a traditional key from the dealership, the best option is to call an auto locksmith. They are more likely to be able to get you back on the road in a hurry and likely to charge less than the dealership would.
Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you call someone to replace your keys. This is important as someone will need it to create an alternative car key for you. The VIN can be found on the dashboard of the driver's side or included in your owner's manual.
Dealerships can replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. However, it's not a assurance that they'll be able assist you. It's dependent on the model and make of your vehicle and whether keys are equipped with complex programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and request a service manager if you are unsure whether they can help.
If your smart key has been lost or stolen, it will need to be replaced by a dealership. This is because the security features of your car require a particular type of key to reset and work properly.
The process is now more complicated than it used to be and you should make sure you're willing to pay the extra cost to restore this feature. Dealers can also provide you with a backup key that's similar to the original one in the event that your lost one was damaged or stolen. If you choose to go this way, make sure you have all the necessary information including an ID photo. This will make the process more efficient for everyone involved.
Contact a locksmith
Calling a locksmith is the first step to replace lost car keys. A skilled locksmith can cut and program an entirely new key for your car while you wait. They will require the year model, make, and year of your vehicle, with proof of ownership (a duplicate of your registration or title).
Make sure to look over every possible location for your keys prior to you contact a locksmith. Check pockets on pants, jackets and purses. Also, check any other bags you might have used. You can also look for your keys in areas that you would not normally put them, such as on the floor under the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you have done this, but you are still unable to locate your keys, it's time to contact a professional for assistance.
A locksmith should be able to replace traditional 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.
Locksmiths can often program and cut new keys for cars equipped with more advanced features, like transponder keys, smart keys or switchblade keys. These more complex keys might require that you provide the car's VIN number, but an experienced locksmith should have the right tools to complete this on the spot for you.
Many locksmiths can also remove broken or bent keys that are usually caused by locking them in your vehicle. The attempt to remove a broken key by yourself could cause more damage, so this is something that should be left to experts.
A locksmith can help replace keys that are lost in your car and provide advice on how to avoid future keys being misplaced or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home could assist you in avoiding losing your car keys again.