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.
Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are many ways to replace lost car keys however, the majority of them require the dealership or a professional locksmith.
Check the locks on your car.
When you lose car keys, it's always best to start by checking your vehicle. We often forget where they are, particularly when we're busy or distracted. Fortunately finding keys to your car is fairly easy if you take the time to conduct an exhaustive search in your vehicle.
Start with the driver’s seat. Examine every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats up and down, back and forward. Be sure to look around small compartments and zippered areas for keys, too. Also, be sure to check your backpack, purse, or tote bag, for keys.
Many modern vehicles come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. They usually have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car in order to let you in and start the engine. If you've lost your car's keys fob, you'll have to visit a dealership to have an alternative one created.
Some older cars still have keys made of metal that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you have lost these keys, a locksmith could be able create keys for you if you have evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.
The dealer is also able to provide an alternative however it will cost more. The dealership must integrate a computer chip into your car, which can cost $200-$250 or more depending on the model and make of your car.
Make sure to verify your insurance policy before you purchase a new car key. You could be able to claim your comprehensive insurance to pay for the cost of buying an additional car key. Check with your insurance provider whether they have roadside service coverage. This can be useful if you ever need it. There are many companies that provide roadside assistance packages. You should be able find one near you.
Check your vehicle's identification (VIN).
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and monitor inventory, report crashes and thefts, and more. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into the form of a plate or label on the dashboard of your car or jambs on the door of the driver's side, and sometimes on the engine block. Your VIN can be found in other documents like your vehicle registration and title as well as insurance documents.
Your VIN is unique to your vehicle 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. A locksmith can decode your VIN to locate the key code from the manufacturer for your specific model that will then work with your lock.
The VIN is usually found on a label that is placed on the dashboard of the driver, where the windshield meets it. You can also look for it on the door jamb on the driver's side, or in front of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. In some cases it is possible that the VIN is even etched into your windshield or windows as part of an anti-theft measure.
Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth look at your vehicle including the manufacturer, model of the body, type of engine, size, assembly facility, and year of production.
VINs were first used in 1954, however, until 1981, they were available in a variety. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current one of 17 characters.
If your VIN number is valid, you can obtain new keys from many locksmiths, automotive or dealerships based on the type key your vehicle requires. For instance, if you vehicle requires an ignition chip, you'll have to visit an auto locksmith or dealer that can swap your key for one that will be able to start your car. You can also purchase standard keys at hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could easily contact your local dealer and request a new set. Nowadays, it's much more complex than that. If you're looking to have your lost car keys replaced, the dealership isn't always the most ideal option.
While you can certainly still purchase a traditional key at the dealership, the best choice is to contact an automotive locksmith. They can to get you back on your faster and for less than the dealership.
Note down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you contact someone to replace your lost keys. This is crucial because someone will need it to create a replacement car key for you. The VIN is located on the driver's side dashboard, or it may be found in the owner's manual.
Dealerships can replace keys for the majority of automobile manufacturers. It is not a 100% warranty however. It all depends on your make and model, and if the keys are smart or are complex in their programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and request a service manager if you are unsure whether they can help.
If you have an electronic key that's been lost or stolen, you'll have to visit your dealer in order to have it replaced. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a specific type of key to reset and function properly.
This process is more complicated than it was previously be, so make sure you're prepared to pay a greater cost to restore this feature. Dealers can also provide you with another key that's identical to the one you have in case the lost key was damaged or stolen. If you decide to take this route, make sure to carry all the necessary information along with you and an ID photo. This will help all to complete the process.
Call in the know is the first step in replacing lost keys to your car. A reputable locksmith can cut and program the new key for your car while you wait. However, they will need to know the year and make of your car along with proof that you own it (a copy of your registration or title should suffice).
Before you get a locksmith over the phone, though, make sure that you've inspected all possible places where your keys may be. This includes checking pockets of pants and jackets or purses, as well as any other bags you've used. You may also look for your keys in places where you would not normally look for them, like the floor behind the doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried all of these methods and still are not able to locate your keys, it's time to call someone.
A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot for around $20. This is less expensive than what you would pay to have roadside assistance take your car to the dealership and buy a replacement key.
Locksmiths are often able to program and cut new keys for cars with more advanced features, such as smart keys, transponder keys or switchblade keys. Some of these more complicated keys require you to provide the VIN number of your car, however a locksmith will be able to complete the task on the spot.
The majority of locksmiths also have the capability of removing broken or bent keys that can occur if you lock them accidentally in your car. Trying to remove a broken key on your own can cause more damage, and this should be left to experts.
In addition to helping you replace your keys to your car that have been lost, a locksmith can also give you advice about how to prevent future keys from getting misplaced or stolen. Preventive steps, like keeping a spare set keys at home or in your wallet can go a long way towards ensuring that you don't lose your car keys ever again.