Ten Replace Lost Car Keys That Will Actually Improve Your Life How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired, so you change into your favorite sweats and order a pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. You find that the keys to your car have disappeared.

Be aware of your options prior to get in a panic. There are a variety of ways to replace keys for cars that have been lost, but the majority of them require a locksmith or dealership.

Check Your Car's Locks

When you lose keys to your car, it's recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. After all, we often forget where we put them, especially when we're in a hurry or distracted. Fortunately finding keys to your car isn't difficult when you take the time to do an exhaustive search in your vehicle.

Start with the driver's seat. The seats can be moved forward and backwards as well as up and down to search every inch of your vehicle for your car keys. Make sure you check small compartments and zippered areas for the keys, too. Be sure to check your backpack, purse or tote bag with care for keys.

Many modern cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. They usually include an internal chip that can communicate to the car in order to allow you into the vehicle and start the engine. You'll need to visit your dealer to obtain an alternative key fob if you've lost it.

Some older cars still have traditional keys made of metal that fit in an ignition cylinder. If you have lost these keys, a locksmith might be able to create an alternative key for you if you've got proof of ownership like your registration or title.

You can also purchase an upgrade at the dealership, however it will be more expensive. The dealership will need to pair a computer chip with your car, which could cost between $200 and $250 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Before you purchase the replacement of your car key make sure you check your insurance policy. If you have comprehensive coverage you may be able to claim it to cover the cost of a new key. Moreover, it's also worth asking your car insurance company if they have roadside assistance insurance that can help you in the event of an emergency. There are numerous companies that offer roadside assistance packages. You should be able to find one near you.

Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (VIN)


The vehicle identification number is a unique 17-digit alpha-numeric code for each vehicle that is on the road. It is used to identify vehicles and keep track of inventory. It can also be used to report crashes and thefts. In the United States the VIN is typically stamped on a label or plate that's attached to your dashboard, driver's side door jamb, and sometimes behind the motor block. You can also locate your VIN in other places, such as the registration of your vehicle, title and insurance documents.

It is essential to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your car. In the event that you lose your keys, you'll be able to use it to get a replacement key made quickly and easily. Locksmiths can decode the VIN and get the manufacturer's codes for your particular model. This will work with your lock.

The VIN is usually found 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 or in front the engine block of larger commercial and truck vehicles. Some VINs are etched directly into the windshield or windows of your vehicle as a security measure.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth report on your vehicle's model, manufacturer, body type, engine size, assembly facility, and the year of manufacture.

VINs first came into use in 1954. However, until 1981, they were offered in various configurations. In additional hints standardized them to the current 17-character format.

If your VIN number is correct, you can purchase new keys from many dealerships or locksmiths for automotive based on the type key your vehicle requires. If your car has an ignition chip you will require a locksmith or dealer in order to replace your key. Otherwise, you can simply get standard keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could simply call your local dealer and request a new set. It's a lot more difficult today. The dealership might not be the best option in case you want to replace the keys to your car that you lost.

Although you could purchase a traditional key at the dealership, your best bet is to call an auto locksmith. They can to get you back on your faster and for less than the dealership.

Before calling someone to replace your car keys, write down the number for your vehicle identification (VIN). This is vital as it will be required in order for someone to make a new replacement car key for your car. The VIN is located on the driver's dashboard, or it may be printed inside of your owner's manual.

Dealerships can replace car keys for the majority of manufacturers. However, it's not a guarantee that they'll assist you. It all depends on your make and model, and whether the keys are intelligent or have complicated programming. If you're unsure whether or not your dealership can help you, bring your vehicle in and ask to speak with the service manager.

If click through the following page has been stolen or lost the key will need to be replaced at the dealership. This is because the security features of your car require a certain type of key to function correctly and reset.

This process is much more complicated than it used to be, so be sure that you're willing to pay the additional price to restore this feature. A dealership will also be able to provide you with another key that's identical to the original in case the lost key was damaged or stolen. If you choose to go this way ensure that you have all of the necessary information, including an identification photo. This will facilitate the process for everyone involved.

Call a locksmith

Contacting a locksmith is the first step to replace lost car key s. A reputable locksmith will be able cut and program the new key for your car while you wait. They will need the year, make, and model of your vehicle, along with evidence of ownership (a duplicate of your registration or title).

Be sure to check all possible locations for your keys prior to when you contact a locksmith. Check pockets on the pants, jackets and purses. Also check any other bags you might have used. You may also search for your keys in places where you don't usually put them, like on the floor behind a doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried this but are still unable to locate your keys, you should call for help.

For traditional keys, a locksmith is likely to be able replace keys on the spot for around $20. This is cheaper than the price you'd pay to have roadside assistance take your vehicle to the dealership and purchase a new 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. Some of these more complicated keys require you to provide the VIN number of your vehicle, but a locksmith should be able to complete the task on the spot.

Many locksmiths are also able to remove bent or broken keys that are often caused by accidentally locking them in your vehicle. It is recommended that you leave the removal of a damaged key to professionals. If you attempt to do it yourself could result in further damage.

A locksmith can help you replace keys to your car that have been lost and provide guidance on how to prevent future keys from being lost or stolen. Making preventative steps, like keeping a spare set keys at home or in your wallet can make a huge difference in ensuring that you never lose your car keys ever again.