How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're exhausted and want to change into your favorite sweatshirt, grab some pizza, and binge your latest TV show. You find that your car keys have disappeared.
Before you panic, consider your options. There are many methods to replace lost car keys however, the majority of them involve the dealership or a professional locksmith.
Check replacing lost car keys on your car.
If you lose your car keys, it's always recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. In the end, we tend to forget where we've put them especially when we're in a rush or distracted. Fortunately finding keys to your car is fairly easy if you take the time to do a thorough search of your vehicle.
Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. Move the seats back and forwards as well as up and down to search every inch of your vehicle for your car key. Be sure to look around small compartments and zippered areas for the keys, too. Also, be sure to check your backpack, purse, or tote bag for keys.
Many modern cars come with key fobs that let you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. They usually contain an internal chip that connects to the car in order to let you into the vehicle and to start the engine. You'll have to visit your dealer to get the new key fob in case you've lost it.
Certain older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith may be able create a replacement key for you if you've got proof of ownership like your registration or title.
The dealer is also able to provide an alternative however, it will cost more. The dealer will need to pair up the computer chip with your vehicle. This could cost between $200 and $250, depending on the model and make.
Before you purchase an auto key replacement make sure you check your insurance policy. You could be able to claim your comprehensive insurance plan to pay for the cost of buying an additional car key. Moreover, it's also worth asking your car insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance coverage to help you in the event of an emergency. There are many companies that provide roadside assistance packages. You should be able locate one close to you.
Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN).
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and keep track of 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's affixed to your dashboard, driver's side door jamb and sometimes even on the motor block. Your VIN can be found in other documents like your registration for your vehicle as well as title and insurance documents.
It is essential to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your car. That way, if you should ever lose your keys, you'll be able to use it to get a replacement key made quickly and easily. Locksmiths can decode your VIN and locate the key code from the manufacturer specific to your lock, which will then work with your lock.
The majority of passenger vehicles have their VIN on a label that's placed where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. click through the next web page can also locate it on the driver's side door jamb or on the side of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. Certain VINs are etched directly into the windshield or windows of your vehicle to serve as a prevention measure.
Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth look at your vehicle including the model, manufacturer of the body, type of engine, size, assembly facility, and year of manufacture.
VINs were first introduced in 1954, but until 1981, they came in a variety. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current one of 17 characters.
If your VIN is correct, then you should be able to get new keys at most dealerships and automotive locksmiths, depending on the type of key your car requires. For instance, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip you'll need to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer who can swap your key for one that will start your car. In other cases, you can buy standard keys at hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
Not long ago the loss of your car keys was not an issue. You could easily contact your local dealer to purchase a new set. It's a lot more difficult today. If you're looking to get your car keys replaced, the dealership isn't always your most ideal option.
While you may obtain a traditional key from the dealership, the best choice is to contact an automotive locksmith. They will be able get you back on your quicker and at a lower cost than a dealership.
Note down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you contact someone to replace your keys. 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 may be printed in your owner's manual.
Dealerships are able replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. This isn't a assurance, however. It depends on the make and model of your vehicle as well as whether keys have complex programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealer and inquire for a service manager if you are unsure if they can help.
If your smart key has been lost or stolen the key will need to be replaced by a dealership. This is because your car's security functions require a specific kind of key to reset and function correctly.
This process is much more complex than it used to be and you should make sure you're willing to pay the additional price to have this feature restored. A dealer will also be able to provide you with an alternative key that is similar to the original in case your lost one was damaged or stolen. If you opt to do this ensure you have all of the information needed including an identification photo. This will facilitate the process for everyone involved.
Call a locksmith

The most important step in replacing keys to your car that have been lost is to contact an experienced locksmith. A reputable locksmith will be able to cut and program an entirely new key for your vehicle while you wait. But, they'll require the year, make and model of your vehicle, as well as evidence that you own the car (a copy of your registration or title will suffice).
Make sure you check every possible location for your keys prior to when you call a locksmith. This includes checking the pockets of jackets and pants, purses and any other bags you've used. You may also search for your keys in areas that you wouldn't normally place them, such as on the floor under the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you have done this but are still unable to locate your keys, you should contact a professional for assistance.
For traditional keys, a locksmith should be able to replace keys in a matter of $20. This is a lot less expensive than having roadside assistance transport your vehicle to a dealer to purchase a new key.
In many cases, a locksmith can also cut and program the new key for more advanced types of automobiles, including smart keys, switchblade keys and transponder keys. These keys that are more complicated may require that you provide the VIN number of the car however, professional locksmiths has the right tools to do this on the spot for you.
Locksmiths are also able to ability to remove broken 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 broken key to professionals. If you attempt to do it yourself could result in further damage.
A locksmith can assist you replace keys to your car that have been lost and provide guidance on how to prevent future keys from being lost or stolen. Preventive measures, such as keeping a spare set of keys at home or in your wallet can help in making sure you never lose your car keys ever again.