How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired, so put on your favorite sweats and grab some pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. But, you realize that your car keys are nowhere to be found.
Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are several ways to replace the car key that was lost however the majority of these require a locksmith or dealer.
Check Your Car's Locks
It's best to inspect your car first if you lose your keys. We often forget where they are, especially when we're busy or distracted. Finding keys to your car may be fairly simple in the event that your vehicle is thoroughly searched.
Start with the driver’s seat. Make sure to inspect every inch of the car by moving the seats up and down, as well as back and forward. Also, feel around compartments with zippers or small spaces to find the keys. Also, you should carefully search your backpack, purse or tote bag, for keys.
A majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car from the distance. They usually have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to allow you in and start the engine. You'll need to visit your dealer to obtain the new key fob in case you've lost it.
Some older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit in an ignition cylinder. If you have lost one of keys, it's likely that a locksmith will be in a position to make a replacement key for you, as provided you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
The dealer is also able to provide the replacement, but it will cost more. The dealership will have to integrate a computer chip into your car, 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 a car key replacement, be sure to consider your insurance policy. You might be able to claim your comprehensive insurance policy to pay for the cost of buying an additional car key. Additionally, it's important to inquire with your car insurance provider if you have roadside assistance coverage to assist you in the event of an emergency. The good news is that there are now many companies offering roadside assistance packages, so you should be able to find an option near you.
Check your vehicle's identification (VIN).
for beginners (VIN) is a 17-digit alpha and numeric code that is unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles as well as track inventory, report crashes and thefts, as well as more. In the United States, the VIN is typically stamped into a label or plate on the dashboard of your vehicle or driver's side door jamb, and sometimes in front of the engine block. Your VIN can be found in other places 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. If you lose your keys, you can quickly and easily get a new key that is based on the VIN. Locksmiths can decode your VIN and find the key code of the manufacturer for your specific model that will then work with your lock.
The majority of passenger vehicles have their VIN on a label that's placed at the point where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. It can also be found on the door jamb for the driver or in front the engine block of commercial and larger vehicles. Some VINs are permanently etched into the windshield or windows of your vehicle 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 manufacturer, model, body type, engine size, assembly facility and the year of manufacture.
VINs first came into use in 1954 when VINs first appeared. However, until 1981, they were available in different configurations. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current format of 17 characters.
If your VIN is correct, then you should be able to purchase new keys at most dealerships as well as locksmiths for automotive, based on the kind of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if you vehicle requires an ignition chip you'll need to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer who can replace your key with one that will be able to start your car. In other cases, you can get standard keys from hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
In the past losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could contact your local dealership to have 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.
Although you could purchase a traditional key at the dealership, your best bet is to contact an automotive locksmith. They're more likely be able to get you back on the road fast and probably cost less than the dealership.
Before you contact someone to replace your lost car keys, make a note of the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is crucial because the person who needs it will create a replacement car key for you. The VIN is found on the dashboard of your car or it could be printed in your owner's manual.
Dealerships can replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. This isn't a warranty, however. It all depends on your model and make, as well as whether the keys are smart or are complex in their programming. If you're unsure whether or not your dealership can help you, bring your vehicle to the dealership and request a chat with the service manager.
If your smart key has been stolen or lost it must be replaced at the dealership. This is because the security features of your car require a specific type of key to reset and function properly.
This process is more complex than it used to be and you should make sure you're willing to pay the extra price to restore this feature. In the event that your original key is lost or damaged the dealership will be able to provide you with a duplicate backup. If you choose to go this route, be sure to carry all the necessary information on hand along with an ID photo. This will help all to complete the process.
Call for a locksmith
The most crucial step to take in replacing lost car keys is to contact a locksmith. A reputable locksmith will be able to cut and program an entirely new key for your vehicle while you wait. They will need the year model, make, and year of your vehicle with proof of ownership (a copy your registration or title).
Before calling a locksmith on the phone, though, make sure that you've checked every possible place where your keys may be. Examine the pockets on jackets, pants and purses. Also, look through any other bags you might have used. You can also look for your keys in areas that you wouldn't normally place them, such as on the floor in front of the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you've tried all of this but are still not able to locate your keys, then it's time for you to contact someone.
A locksmith should be able to replace traditional keys on the spot, at a cost of around $20. This is less than what you would pay to have roadside assistance take your car to a dealer and purchase a replacement key.
In many cases, a locksmith can also cut and program the new key for more sophisticated automobiles, such as smart keys, switchblade keys, transponder keys, and switchblade keys. These more complex keys may require you to provide the VIN number of the car however a professional locksmith has the right tools to do this on the spot for you.
Many locksmiths can also remove bent or broken keys that are usually the result of accidentally locking them inside your vehicle. It is recommended that you leave the removal of a damaged key to a professional. Trying to do it yourself can cause further damage.
In addition to helping you replace your keys to your car that have been lost, a locksmith can also offer advice on how to avoid keys from being lost or stolen. Taking preventative steps, like keeping an extra set of keys at home or in your wallet can go a long way towards making sure you never lose your car keys again.