How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're exhausted and are ready to put on your favorite sweatshirt, grab some pizza, and watch the latest TV show. However, you discover that your car keys are nowhere to be found.
Be aware of your options prior to be in a panic. There are a few different methods to replace lost car keys however, the majority of them require the dealership or a professional locksmith.
Check the Locks on Your Car
If you've lost your car keys, it's always recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. We often don't know the location of our keys, especially if we're distracted or in a rush. Finding keys lost in the car can be relatively easy when your car is thoroughly searched.
Start with Recommended Web site . Make sure to inspect every inch of the car by moving the seats upwards and downwards, back and forth. Also, look around zippered areas or small compartments to find keys. Also, you should carefully search your backpack, purse or tote bag, for keys.
A lot of modern cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from a distance. These devices usually have an internal chip that can communicate to the car to let you into the vehicle and then start the engine. If you've lost your car key fob, you'll need to visit the dealership to have an alternative one created.
Some older vehicles still use traditional keys made of metal that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith could be able to make keys for you, if you have proof of ownership like your registration or title.
The dealer is also able to provide an alternative however it will cost more. The dealer must pair up the computer chip with your vehicle. This could cost between $200 and $250, depending on the model and make.
Before you make a payment for a car key replacement be sure to check your insurance policy. If you have coverage that is comprehensive you may be able to claim on it to cover the cost of replacing a key. Ask your insurance company if you have roadside service coverage. This can come in handy if you ever need it. The good news is that there are many companies offering roadside assistance packages, so 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 is unique to every vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles as well as track inventory. It can also be used to report thefts and crashes. In the United States the VIN is typically stamped on a label or a plate that is attached to your dashboard, driver-side door jamb, and sometimes behind the motor block. You may also find your VIN in other places, including your registration for your vehicle title, insurance and title documents.
Your VIN is unique to your vehicle It's a good idea to keep it somewhere safe. That way, if you ever lose your keys, you'll be in a position to use it to get a replacement key made quickly and easily. A locksmith can decode your VIN to locate the key code from the manufacturer specific to your lock which can then be used with your lock.
The VIN is usually found on a label on the dashboard of the driver's side, where the windshield meets it. You can also find it on the door jamb for the driver or on the side of the engine block of commercial and larger vehicles. In some instances there are instances where the VIN is even etched into your windshield or windows to provide an security measure to prevent theft.
You can check your VIN by entering it into an online VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth report on your vehicle, including the model, manufacturer of the body, type of engine, size, assembly facility, and the year of manufacture.
VINs were first used 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 is valid, then you'll be able to get new keys at most dealerships and locksmiths for automotive, based on the type of key your car requires. If your car has an ignition chip, you'll need to visit a locksmith or dealer to replace your key. You can also get basic keys at hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys was not an issue. You could simply call your local dealership to have a new set of keys made. Nowadays, it's much more complex than that. If you're looking to get your car keys replaced, the dealership isn't always the most ideal option.
You can still purchase a traditional car key from the dealership, but it's best to call an automotive lock. They are more likely to be in a position to get you back on the road fast and will probably charge less than the dealership would.
Before you contact anyone to replace your car keys, note down the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is important as someone will need it to create a replacement car key for you. The VIN is on the dashboard of your car or could be printed in the owner's guide.
Dealerships are able to replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. However, this isn't a guarantee that they'll be able to assist you. It's contingent on the model and make of your vehicle, as well as whether keys have complicated programming. If you're not sure whether or not your dealership can help you, bring your car in and ask to speak with the service manager.
If you have an electronic key that's been lost or stolen, you'll need to visit your dealership in order to have it replaced. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a certain type of key in order to be reset and function properly.
This process is more complicated than it used to be, so be sure that you're willing to pay the additional cost to restore this feature. A dealer will also be able to provide you with a backup key that's similar to the one you have in case your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you decide to take this route, be sure to have all the required information on hand along with an ID photo. This will make the process more efficient for everyone involved.
Call a Locksmith
The most important step to take when replacing keys to your car that have been lost is to contact an experienced locksmith. A locksmith who has experience will be able to program and cut a new key for your car while you wait. However, they will require the year, make and model of your vehicle, as well as evidence that you own it (a copy of your registration or title will do it).
Be sure to check all possible locations for your keys prior to when you contact a locksmith. Check pockets on jackets, pants and purses. Also check any other bags you might have used. You could also search for your keys in places where you wouldn't normally look for them, like the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or under the couch. If you've tried all this and are still unable to find your keys, then it's time for you to contact someone.
For keys that are traditional locksmiths is likely to be able replace them on the spot for about $20. This is less than what you would pay for roadside assistance to tow your car to the dealership and purchase a new key.
In many instances, a locksmith can also cut and program a new key for more sophisticated automobiles, including smart keys, switchblade keys, transponder keys, and switchblade keys. These keys that are more complicated may require you to provide the VIN number of your car however, a professional locksmith has the right tools to complete this in a flash for you.
Most locksmiths also have the ability to remove damaged keys that are bent or broken, which can occur when you lock them accidentally in your car. It is best to leave the removal of a damaged key to professionals. Trying to do it yourself can cause further damage.
In addition to helping you replace your lost car keys, a locksmith can provide advice on how to avoid keys from being lost or stolen. Prevention measures like keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home will help you to never lose your car key ever again.