How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted, so you put on 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, consider your options. There are many ways to replace lost key to car car keys however, the majority of them involve the dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check the locks on your car.

If you lose your keys to your car, it's recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. We often forget where they are, particularly when we're distracted or in a rush. Finding keys to your car may be relatively easy when your car is thoroughly searched.

Start by sitting in the driver's seat. Make sure to inspect every inch of the car by moving the seats up and down, back and back and forth. Make sure you check compartments with zippers and small spaces for keys, too. Also, be sure to 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 from a distance. They usually include an internal chip that communicates with the car to allow you access to the vehicle and start the motor. If you've lost your car's key fob, you'll have to visit the dealership to have a new one made.

Certain older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose the keys, a locksmith might 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 dealer must pair up the computer chip with your vehicle. This can cost between $200 and $250, depending on your car's model and make.

Before you pay for an auto key replacement, be sure to consider your insurance policy. You could be able to claim on your comprehensive insurance policy to pay for the cost of purchasing a new car key. Additionally, it's worthwhile to ask your insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance coverage that will aid you in the case of an emergency. The good news is that there are now many companies offering roadside assistance plans which means you will be able to locate a service near you.

Check your vehicle's identification (VIN).

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit alpha and numeric code that's unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and monitor inventory, report crashes and thefts, and much more. In the United States the VIN is typically stamped on a label or a plate that's affixed to your dashboard, driver's side door jamb and sometimes even in front of the motor block. Your VIN can be found in other documents like your vehicle registration and title as well as insurance documents.

It's important to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your car. If you lose your keys you can easily and quickly get a new key that is based on the VIN. Locksmiths can decode your VIN to locate the key code from the manufacturer for your particular model which can then be used with your lock.

The majority of passenger vehicles have their VIN on a sticker that's placed between the windshield and the dash on the driver's side. You can also find it on the door jamb of the driver or on the front of the engine block of commercial and larger vehicles. In some instances, the VIN is even etched on your windows or windshields as part of an security measure to prevent theft.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth analysis of your vehicle including the model, manufacturer of the body, type of engine, size, assembly facility, and the year of production.

VINs first came into use in 1954 when VINs first appeared. However, up to 1981, they were offered in a variety of configurations. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current format of 17 characters.

If your VIN number is valid, you can obtain new keys from many dealerships or locksmiths for automotive based on the type of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if your car requires an ignition chip, you'll need to go to an auto locksmith or dealer that can replace your key with one that will start your car. You can also get standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys weren't a big deal. You could simply call your local dealer to get a new set. It's more complicated today. If you're looking to have your lost key replacement car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always your most ideal option.

While you can certainly still get a traditional key at the dealership, the best choice is to call an auto locksmith. They can get you back on your faster and for less than a dealership.

Before you contact someone to replace your car keys, note down the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). This is important because the person who needs it will create a replacement car key for you. The VIN is located on the dashboard of your vehicle or it could be printed in the owner's manual.

Dealerships are able to replace cars keys for most manufacturers. However, it's not a guarantee that they'll assist you. It all depends on your model and make, as well as whether the keys are smart or have complex programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealer and request the service manager if are unsure if they can assist.

If you have a smart key that's lost or stolen, you'll need to go to your dealership in order to have it replaced. This is because the security features of your car require a certain type of key to be reset and function properly.

This process is more complicated than it used to be, so be sure that you're willing to pay the additional price to restore this feature. A dealer can also give you 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 way ensure you have all of the required information including a photo ID. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.

Call a Locksmith

Contacting a locksmith is the first step to replace lost car keys. A skilled locksmith will be able cut and program the new key for your vehicle while you wait. But, they'll require the year, make and model of your vehicle, as well as evidence that you own the car (a copy of your registration or title should suffice).

Be sure to check every possible location for your keys prior to you contact a locksmith. Check the pockets of pants, jackets and purses. Also, look through any other bags you may have used. You can also look for your keys in areas where you don't usually put them, like on the floor under a doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried all of this and are still not able to locate your keys, it's time to contact someone.

A locksmith should be able to replace traditional keys on the spot for around $20. This is less than what you would pay for roadside assistance to tow your car to a dealership and purchase a new key.

In many instances, locksmiths can also cut and program the new key for more advanced types of automobiles, such as smart keys, switchblade keys and transponder keys. These keys that are more complicated may require that you provide the VIN number of the car however, a professional locksmith will have the tools to cut and program the key on the spot for you.

Many locksmiths can also remove keys that are bent or broken, which are often caused by accidentally locking them inside your vehicle. If you attempt to remove a damaged key on your own could cause more damage, and this task should be left to experts.

In addition to helping you replace lost car keys, a locksmith can provide advice on how to avoid keys from being lost or stolen. Prevention measures like keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home can help you to never lose your car keys again.