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.

Before you panic, know your options. There are a variety of ways to replace the car key that was i lost my keys however the majority of these require a locksmith or a dealership.

Check Your Car's Locks

It's best to check your car first when you lose your keys. We often forget where they are, especially when we're distracted or in a rush. Fortunately, finding lost car keys is fairly easy when you take the time to do an exhaustive search in your vehicle.

Start by sitting in the driver's seat. The seats can be moved forward and back as well as up and down to search every inch of your car for your car keys. Also, feel around compartments with zippers or small spaces to find the keys. You should also carefully check your backpack, purse or tote bag for keys.

Many modern cars come with key fobs which allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. These devices typically include an internal chip that can communicate to the car to allow you into the vehicle and then start the motor. If you've lost your car's key fob, you'll have to visit a dealership to have a new one created.

Some older vehicles still use traditional keys made of metal that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you have lost my car keys no spare these keys, a locksmith could be able create a replacement key 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 will need to integrate a computer chip into your car, which could cost $200-$250 or more depending on the make and model of your car.

Before you purchase a car key replacement, be sure to consider your insurance policy. You could be able to claim your comprehensive insurance plan to pay for the cost of purchasing a new car key. It's also worthwhile to ask your insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance coverage to help you in the event of an emergency. The good news is that there are now numerous companies that offer roadside assistance and you should be able to find services close to you.

Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (VIN)

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to every vehicle on the road. It is used to identify vehicles and track inventory. It can also be used to report accidents and thefts. In the United States the VIN is usually stamped on a label or plate that's attached to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb, and sometimes 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.

Your VIN is unique to your vehicle, so it's recommended to store it in a safe place. If you lose your keys you can easily and quickly get a new key made using the VIN. A locksmith can decode the VIN and retrieve the manufacturer's code for your model. This will work with your lock.

Most passenger cars have their VIN on a label situated at the point where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. It can also be found on the door jamb of the driver or on the front of the engine block of larger trucks and commercial vehicles. Some VINs are permanently etched into the windshield or windows of your vehicle as a theft security measure.

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

VINs first came into use in 1954, but up to 1981, they were offered in a variety. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current 17-character format.

If your VIN is correct, then you will be able to purchase new keys at most dealerships and automotive locksmiths, depending on the type of key your car requires. If your car has an ignition chip, you'll require an authorized locksmith or dealer to replace your key. Otherwise, you can simply buy standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

Not long ago the loss of your car keys was not a huge deal. You could easily contact your local dealer to purchase a new set. It's a lot more difficult today. The dealership may not be the best option if you need to replace your lost car keys.

While you can certainly still obtain a traditional key from the dealership, the best option is to contact an automotive locksmith. They will be able get you back on your quicker and at a lower cost than a dealership.

Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you call someone to replace your keys. This is crucial because it will be required in order for someone to make a new replacement car key for your car. The VIN is located on the dashboard of your car or it could be found in the owner's guide.

Dealerships can replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. It is not a 100% warranty, however. It's dependent on the model and make of your vehicle and whether keys have complicated programming. If you're not sure whether or your dealer can assist you, bring your vehicle into the store and speak with the service manager.

If you have an electronic key that's been lost or stolen, you'll have to go to your dealership for it to be replaced. This is because your car's security functions require a specific type of key to be reset and function correctly.

This process is more complex than it was previously, so make sure you're prepared to pay a greater price to restore this feature. In the event that your original key is stolen or damaged, a dealership can provide you with a duplicate backup. If you choose to go this route, make sure you have all the required information with you along with an identification photo. This will help everyone to get through the process.

Call a locksmith

The most important step in replacing lost my spare car key car keys is to call locksmith. A reputable locksmith will be able cut and program the new key for your car while you wait. However, they'll need to know the year, make and model of your vehicle as well as proof that you own it (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. Check pockets on pants, jackets and purses. Also check any other bags that you may have used. You could also search for your keys in places that you wouldn't normally place them, such as on the floor lost my spare car key under a doorway table or under the couch. If you've done this, but you are still unable to locate your keys, you should contact a professional for assistance.

For keys that are traditional locksmiths should be able to replace keys on the spot for around $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance take your vehicle to a dealer to purchase a new key.

Locksmiths often program and cut new keys for cars with more advanced features, including smart keys, transponder keys or switchblade keys. These more complex keys might require that you provide the VIN number of your car, but a professional locksmith has the right tools to do this right on the spot for you.

Many locksmiths can also remove broken or bent 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. Trying to do it yourself could cause more damage.

A locksmith can help replace lost car keys and also give advice on how to avoid future keys being misplaced or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home can assist you in avoiding losing your car key ever again.