15 Things You're Not Sure Of About Replace Lost Car Keys How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted, so you change into your sweats and order a pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. However, you realize your car keys aren't to be found.

Be aware of your options before you be in a panic. There are a few different methods to replace lost car keys, but most of them require a dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check replace lost key for car

If you've lost your car keys, it's always recommended to first check your vehicle. We often forget where they're especially when we're in a rush or distracted. Fortunately the search for lost car keys is relatively easy when you take the time to do an exhaustive search in your vehicle.

Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. Check every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats upwards and downwards, back and back and forth. Be sure to feel around zippered areas and small compartments for keys, too. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag with care for keys.

A majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from an extended distance. Most of the time, these devices come with an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to allow you in and start the engine. If you've lost your car key fob, you'll have to visit the dealership to have a new one created.

Certain older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you have lost one of these keys, it's likely that locksmiths will be capable of creating a new key for you, as long as you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title.

You can also purchase a new replacement at the dealership, however it will be more expensive. The dealer will have to pair up a computer chip for your vehicle. It could cost between $200 and $250, dependent on the car's model and make.

Make sure to verify your insurance policy prior to purchase a new car key. If you have coverage that is comprehensive you may be able to claim it to pay for the cost of a replacement key. Check with your insurance provider if you have roadside service coverage. This will help in the event that you need it. There are many companies that offer roadside assistance plans. You should be able locate one close to you.

Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN)

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit numeric and alpha code that's unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and keep track of inventory. It is also used to report thefts and crashes. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into an image or a plate on the dashboard of your car or driver's side door jamb, and sometimes on the engine block. You can also locate your VIN in other places, including your registration for your vehicle as well as title and insurance documents.

Your VIN is unique to your car and it's recommended to store it somewhere safe. If you lose your keys you can quickly and easily get a new key made using the VIN. Locksmiths can decode the VIN and retrieve the manufacturer's codes for your particular model. This will work with your lock.

The VIN is typically located on a label that is placed on the dashboard of the driver's side at the point where the windshield joins it. You can also locate it on the door jamb for the driver's side or on the front of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. In some instances there are instances where the VIN is even embedded into your windows or windshields to provide an anti-theft measure.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with a complete report on your vehicle, including the manufacturer, make and model, body style, engine size as well as the assembly plant year it was manufactured.

VINs first came into use in 1954, when VINs were first introduced. However, until 1981 they were available in various configurations. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current format of 17 characters.

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

Contact Your Dealership

In the past the loss of your car keys was not an issue. You could simply call your local dealer and request a new set. Today, it's more complicated than that. If you're looking to have your car keys replaced, the dealership isn't always your most ideal option.

You can still get a traditional car key from the dealership but it is best to call an automotive lock. They're more likely be able to get you back on the road in a hurry and probably cost less than the dealership would.

Before you call someone to replace your lost car keys, make a note of the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). This is vital as it will be needed in order for someone to create a replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN is located on the dashboard of the driver's side, or it may be printed inside of your owner's manual.

Dealerships can replace cars keys for most manufacturers. However, this isn't a assurance that they'll be able to assist you. It depends on the make and model of your vehicle and whether keys have complicated 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 was stolen or lost the key will need to be replaced at the dealership. This is because the security features in your car require a specific kind of key in order to reset and function properly.

The process is more complicated than it was previously be, so you should be prepared to pay a higher price to restore this feature. A dealership can also give you another key that's identical to the original in case the lost key was damaged or stolen. If you decide to go this route, be sure to have all the information needed on hand and an identification photo. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.

Call a locksmith

The most crucial step to take in replacing lost car keys is to call a locksmith. A reputable locksmith will be able cut and program the new key for your vehicle while you wait. But, they'll require the year and make of your car along with evidence that you own it (a copy of your registration or title should suffice).

Be sure to check every possible location for your keys prior to when you call a locksmith. This includes checking pockets in pants and jackets as well as purses and other bags you may have used. You may also search for your keys in places that you would not normally put them, such as on the floor under a doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried this but are still unable to locate your keys, it's time to contact a professional for assistance.


For traditional keys, a locksmith should be able to replace them in a matter of $20. This is a lot less expensive than having roadside assistance tow your vehicle to a dealer to buy a new key.

Locksmiths can often program and cut new keys for cars that have more advanced features, like transponder keys, smart keys, or switchblade keys. Certain of these keys require the VIN number of your vehicle, but locksmiths is likely to be able complete the task immediately.

The majority of locksmiths also have the capability of removing broken keys that are bent or broken which can happen when you accidentally lock them in your car. Trying to remove a broken key on your own can cause more damage, so this task should be left to the experts.

In addition to helping you replace keys that were lost in your car, a locksmith can offer advice on how to avoid keys from getting misplaced or stolen. Preventive 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 again.