How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired, so you change into your sweats and grab some pizza to watch your latest TV show. But, you realize that your car keys are nowhere to be found.
Before you panic, know your options. There are several ways to replace lost car keys, but most of them involve the dealership or a professional locksmith.
Check Your Car's Locks
When you lose keys to your car, it's recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. We often forget where we've put them, especially when we're in a rush or distracted. Finding lost car keys can be relatively easy if your vehicle is thoroughly searched.
Start by sitting in the driver's seat. Move the seats forward and backwards as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your vehicle for your car key. Also, look around zippered areas or small compartments to find the keys. Examine your backpack, purse or tote bag carefully for keys.
Many modern cars have key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car from an extended distance. They usually have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to allow you in and start the engine. You'll need to go to your dealer to obtain an alternative key fob if you've lost it.
Some older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you have lost these keys, a locksmith may be able to make a replacement key for you if you've got proof of ownership like your registration or title.
The dealer may also offer an alternative however it will cost more. The dealer will have to connect a computer chip for your car. It could cost between $200 and $250 depending on your car's model and make.
Before you make a payment for the replacement of your car key make sure you check your insurance policy. If you have coverage that is comprehensive you may be able to claim it to pay for the cost of replacing a key. Check with lost car key replacement whether you have roadside assistance coverage. This will help in the event that you need it. The good news is that there are numerous companies that offer roadside assistance, so you will be able to locate a service near you.
Verify your vehicle's identification number (VIN).
The vehicle identification number is an alpha-numeric code with 17 digits for every vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles, monitor inventory, report crashes and thefts, and more. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into an image or a plate on your car's dashboard or driver's side door jamb, and sometimes, in front of the engine block. Your VIN can be found in other documents like your registration for your vehicle and title as well as insurance documents.
Your VIN is unique to your car, so it's a good idea to keep it somewhere safe. If you lose your keys, you can easily and quickly obtain a new key made using the VIN. Locksmiths can decode your VIN and retrieve the manufacturer's key code for your particular model, which will then work with your lock.
The majority of passenger vehicles have their VIN on a sticker that's situated at the point where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. You can also look for it on the driver's side door jamb or on the front of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. In some cases, the VIN is even written into your windshield or windows as part of an security measure to prevent theft.
Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you an entire report on your vehicle, including manufacturer, make and model body style, engine size, assembly plant and the year of its production.
VINs first appeared in 1954. However, until 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 is valid, then you'll be able to obtain new keys at most dealerships and automotive locksmiths, depending on the type of key your car requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip, you will have to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer to replace your key. In other cases, you can get standard keys from hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
A few years ago the loss of your car keys was not a huge deal. You could easily call your local dealer to purchase a new set. It's a lot more complicated today. The dealership might not be the best place to go in case you want to replace the keys to your car that you lost.
You can still get a traditional car key from the dealership but it is best to contact an automotive lock. They are more likely to be capable of getting you back on the road fast and probably cost less than the dealership.
Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before calling someone to replace your lost keys. This is crucial because someone will need it to create the replacement car keys for you. The VIN is located on the dashboard of your vehicle or it could be found in the owner's guide.
Dealerships can replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. However, this isn't a guarantee that they'll be able to help you. It is dependent on your model and make, as well as if the keys are smart or have complicated programming. Bring your car to the dealership and request the service manager if are unsure whether they can help.
If your smart key was lost or stolen the key will need to be replaced by a dealership. This is because the security features of your car require a specific kind of key to be reset and function properly.
This process is more complex than it was in the past, so make sure you're prepared to pay a higher cost to restore this feature. In the event that your original key is lost or damaged the dealership will be able to provide you with a duplicate backup. If you opt to go this route ensure you have all the necessary information including an ID photo. This will make it easier for all to complete the process.
Call for a locksmith
Calling a locksmith is the first step to replace lost keys to your car. A reputable locksmith can cut and program a new key for your vehicle while you wait. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle, along with proof of ownership (a copy of your registration or title).
Be sure to check every possible location for your keys before you call a locksmith. This includes checking pockets of jackets and pants, purses and any other bags you may have used. You could also search for your keys in places you might not normally go like the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or underneath the couch. If you've tried all these methods and still are unable to find your keys, it's time to call someone.
For keys that are traditional, a locksmith should be able to replace keys in a matter of $20. This is less expensive than having roadside assistance transport you car to a dealership to purchase a new key.
Locksmiths often cut and program new keys for cars with more advanced features, including transponder keys, smart keys or switchblade keys. These keys that are more complicated may require that you provide the VIN number of your car however a professional locksmith will have the tools to complete this on the spot for you.
Many locksmiths are also able to remove bent or broken keys that are usually caused by locking them inside your vehicle. It is best to leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. If you attempt to do it yourself could result in further damage.
A locksmith can assist you replace lost car keys and also give tips on how to prevent future keys from being lost or stolen. Making preventative measures, such as keeping a spare set of keys at home or in your wallet, can help in making sure you never lose your car keys ever again.