How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted and want to change into your favorite sweatshirt take a bite of pizza and watch your favorite TV show. However, you realize your car keys are nowhere to be found.

Before you panic, know your options. There are several methods to replace lost keys car keys that have been lost however, the majority of them require a dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check the locks on your car.

When you lose car keys, it's always best to start by checking your vehicle. We often don't know the location of our keys, especially if we're distracted or are in a hurry. Fortunately, finding lost car keys is fairly easy if you make the effort to conduct a thorough search of your vehicle.

Start with the driver’s seat. The seats can be moved back and forwards as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your vehicle for your car key. Make sure you check zippered areas and small compartments for the keys, too. You should also carefully check your backpack, purse or tote bag for the keys.

A lot of modern cars have key fobs that let you to lock and unlock your car remotely. These devices typically have an internal chip that can communicate with the car to allow you into the vehicle and to start the engine. If you've lost your car's keys fob, you'll have to visit a dealership to have a new one created.

Certain older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you have I Lost The Key To My Car these keys, a locksmith could be able create an alternative key for you if you have proof of ownership like your registration or title.

You can also purchase an upgrade at the dealership, however this will be much more expensive. The dealer will have to connect an electronic chip to your car. It could cost between $200 and $250, depending on your car's model and make.

Make sure to verify your insurance policy before you purchase the new car key. If you have comprehensive coverage you might be able to claim on it to cover the cost of replacing a key. 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. The good news is that there are many companies offering roadside assistance packages which means you are likely to find a service near you.

Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN).

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit alpha and numeric code that's unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles as well as track inventory. It can also be 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 on the engine block. You can also locate your VIN in other places, like your vehicle registration as well as title and insurance documents.

It is important to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your vehicle. That way, if you should ever lose your keys, you can use it to get a replacement key made quickly and easily. A locksmith can decode the VIN and get the manufacturer's code for your model. This will work with your lock.

The VIN is usually located on a label on the driver's-side dashboard at the point where the windshield joins it. You can also find it on the door jamb for the driver's side 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 embedded into your windshield or windows as part of an anti-theft measure.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth look at your vehicle's model, manufacturer, body type, engine size, assembly facility and the year of its manufacture.

VINs were first introduced in 1954, but up to 1981, they were offered in a variety of configurations. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current one of 17 characters.

If your VIN number is correct, you can purchase 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'll require an authorized locksmith or dealer to replace your key. You can also purchase basic keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

A few years ago losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could easily contact your local dealer to purchase a new set. Today, it's more complicated than that. The dealership might not be the best option for replacing your car lost key keys that have been lost.

You can still purchase a traditional car key from a dealership but it is best to contact an automotive lock. They are more likely to be capable of getting you back on the road in a hurry and probably cost less than the dealership would.

Before you contact someone to replace your lost car keys, write down the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is vital as it will be required to create a new replacement car key for your car. The VIN is located on the dashboard of your vehicle or it could be found in the owner's guide.

Dealerships can replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. However, this isn't a assurance that they'll be able help you. It all depends on your model and make, and whether the keys are smart or are complex in their programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and inquire for a service manager if you are unsure if they can assist.

If your smart key was stolen or lost car keys replacement cost, it will need to be replaced by a dealership. This is because the security features in your car require a specific kind of key to reset and function properly.

This process is much more involved than it used to be so make sure you're willing to pay the additional price to restore this feature. A dealer can also provide you with an alternative key that is similar to the original one in the event that your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you choose to go this way, make sure you have all the information needed including a photo ID. This will help everyone to get through the process.

Call an expert locksmith

The most crucial step to take in replacing i lost my only car key car keys is to call a locksmith. A reputable locksmith will be able to cut and program the new key for your car while you wait. They will require the year model, make, and year of your vehicle, with evidence of ownership (a copy your registration or title).

Make sure to look over every possible location for your keys prior to when you contact a locksmith. This includes checking the pockets of jackets and pants or purses, as well as any other bags you've used. You may also search for your keys in places that you would not normally put them, such as on the floor in front of the doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried all this but are still unable to find your keys, then it's time to contact someone.

For traditional keys locksmiths is likely to be able replace keys on the spot for about $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance tow you car to a dealership to buy a new key.

Locksmiths often cut and program new keys for cars that have more advanced features, like transponder keys, smart keys or switchblade keys. These more complex keys may require that you provide the VIN number of your car, but professional locksmiths should have the right tools to cut and program the key right on the spot for you.

Locksmiths are also able to ability to remove broken keys that are bent or broken which can happen when you lock them accidentally in your car. Trying to remove a broken key on your own can cause more damage, so this task should be left to professionals.

In addition to helping you replace keys to your car that have been lost locksmiths can also give you advice about how to stop future keys from getting misplaced or stolen. Preventive measures, such as keeping a spare set keys at home or in your wallet can make a huge difference in making sure you never lose your car keys again.