How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired, so you put on your favorite sweats and grab some pizza to watch your favorite TV show. However, you realize the keys to your car aren't to be found.
Before lost keys panic, be aware of your options. There are several methods to replace lost car keys, but most of them require the dealership or a professional locksmith.
Check Your Car's Locks
It's best to check your car first when you lose your keys. In the end, we tend to forget where we've put them particularly when we're in a rush or distracted. Fortunately the search for lost car keys is relatively easy when you take the time to conduct an exhaustive search of your vehicle.
Start with the driver's seat. Move the seats forward and backwards as well as up and down to search every inch of your car for your car key. Also, check the zippered areas or small compartments to locate the keys. Also, be sure to check your backpack, purse or tote bag for keys.
A lot of modern cars have 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 key fob, you'll have to visit a 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 possible that a locksmith will be capable of creating a new key for you as provided you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title.
You can also get an entirely new replacement from a dealer, but this will be more expensive. The dealer will need to pair up an electronic chip to your car. It could cost between $200 and $250 depending on the make and model.
Before you purchase the replacement of your car key make sure you check your insurance policy. You may be able claim on your comprehensive insurance policy to cover the cost of buying an additional car key. Ask your insurance company if you have roadside service coverage. This can be useful in the event that you need it. There are numerous companies that provide roadside assistance programs. You should be able find one near you.
Check your vehicle's identification (VIN).
The number for identification of the vehicle is an alpha-numeric number that is unique to 17 numbers for each vehicle that is on the road. It is used to identify vehicles and keep track of inventory. It is also used to report accidents and thefts. In the United States, the VIN is typically stamped into a label or plate on the dashboard of your vehicle, driver's side door jamb, and sometimes in front of the engine block. You can also locate your VIN in other places, including the registration of your vehicle, title and insurance documents.
It is essential to keep your VIN secure because it's unique to you and your vehicle. That way, if you lose your keys, you'll be in a position to make use of it to get a replacement key made quickly and quickly. A locksmith can decode your VIN to find the key code of the manufacturer for your particular model that will then work with your lock.
The VIN is usually located on a sticker on the dashboard of the driver's side, where the windshield meets it. You can also find it on the door jamb on the driver's side or on the side of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. Some VINs are permanently etched into the windshield or windows of your vehicle to serve as a security measure.
Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you the complete information about your vehicle, including manufacturer, model and make the body style, the engine size as well as the assembly plant year it was made.
VINs first appeared in 1954 when VINs first appeared. However, up to 1981, they were available in a variety of configurations. 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 a variety of dealerships or automotive locksmiths depending on the type key your vehicle requires. If your car has an ignition chip, you will have to visit a locksmith or dealer in order to replace your key. You can also find basic keys at hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys was not an issue. You could easily call your local dealer to purchase a new set. Nowadays, it's much more complicated than it used to be. If you're in the market to have your car keys replaced, the dealership isn't always your best option.
You can still purchase a traditional car key from a dealership but it is best to contact an auto lock. They will be able get you back on your faster and for less than a dealership.
Before calling anyone to replace your lost car keys, write down the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). This is important because it will be needed in order for someone to make a new replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN is on the dashboard of your car or could be printed in the owner's manual.
Dealerships can repair keys for a majority of car manufacturers. This isn't a assurance, however. It is all dependent on the make and model, and if the keys are smart or are complex in their programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and inquire for the service manager if are unsure whether they can help.
If you have a smart key that's been lost or stolen, you'll need to visit your dealer to get it replaced. This is because your car's security features require a specific type of key to reset and function correctly.
The process is more complicated than it used to, so make sure you're willing to pay a higher cost to restore this feature. Dealers will also be able to provide you with another key that's identical to the one you have in case your lost one was damaged or stolen. If you opt to go this route ensure that you have all the necessary information including an identification photo. keys lost will make it easier for everyone to go through the process.
Call for a locksmith
A locksmith's call is the first step to replace lost car keys. An experienced locksmith will be able to cut and program the new key for your car while you wait. They will require the year model, make, and year of your vehicle with proof of ownership (a copy of your registration or title).
Before you call a locksmith's number however, ensure that you've inspected all possible places where your keys might be. This includes checking pockets of pants and jackets, purses and any other bags you may have used. You could also search for your keys in places that you wouldn't normally look like the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or underneath the couch. If you've tried all this but are still unable to find your keys, it's time to contact someone.
A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot for about $20. This is less than the cost to have roadside assistance tow your car to a dealership and buy a replacement key.
In many instances, locksmiths can also cut and program keys for more sophisticated cars, including smart keys, switchblade keys transponder keys, and switchblade keys. Some of these more complex keys require the VIN number for your car, however a locksmith should be able to complete the task in a flash.
Many locksmiths can also take out bent or broken keys that are often caused by accidentally locking them inside your vehicle. It is best to leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. Trying to do it yourself can cause further damage.
In addition to helping you replace lost car keys, a locksmith can give you advice about how to prevent future keys from getting misplaced or stolen. Preventive measures, such as keeping a spare set of keys at home or in your wallet can make a huge difference in ensuring that you never lose your car keys ever again.