How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're exhausted, so you change into your sweats and order a pizza to watch your favorite TV show. However, you realize your car keys aren't to be found.
Be aware of your options before you panic. There are many methods to replace car keys that have been lost however, the majority of them involve the dealership or a professional locksmith.
Check your car's locks
When you lose car keys, it's always recommended to first check your vehicle. After all, we often forget where they're, especially when we're rushing or distracted. Fortunately the search for lost car keys is relatively easy if you take the time to do an exhaustive search of your vehicle.
Start by sitting in the driver's seat. Check every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats up and down, back and forward. Also, look around compartments with zippers or small spaces to locate keys. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag with care for keys.
Many modern cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from a distance. They usually have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to let you in and start the engine. You'll need to visit your dealer to obtain an alternative key fob if you've lost it.
Some older vehicles still have traditional metal keys that fit in an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith may be able to make an alternative key for you, if you have evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.
You can also purchase an upgrade at the dealership, however it will be more expensive. The dealership will have to connect a computer chip to your vehicle, which could cost $200-$250 or more depending on the make and model of your car.
Be sure to check your insurance policy before you purchase the new car key. If you have coverage that is comprehensive you might be able to claim it to pay for the cost of a new key. Ask replacement lost car keys G28 Car Keys whether they have roadside service coverage. This will come in handy if you ever need it. There are a variety of companies that offer roadside assistance plans. You should be able locate one close to you.
Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (VIN)
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to every 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 usually engraved into an image or a plate on the dashboard of your car, the driver's side door jamb and sometimes, in front of the engine block. Your VIN can be found in different places like your vehicle registration as well as title and insurance documents.
It is essential to keep your VIN secure because it's unique to you and your car. This way, should you ever lose your keys, you'll be able to make use of it to get the replacement key made quickly and quickly. Locksmiths can decode the VIN and retrieve the manufacturer's codes for your particular model. This will work with your lock.
The VIN is usually found on a sticker on the driver's-side dashboard, where the windshield meets it. You can also find it on the door jamb of the driver or on the front of the engine block of larger commercial and truck vehicles. In some cases, the VIN is even etched on your windows or windshields as part of a security measure against theft.
You can check your VIN by entering it into a online VIN decoder. This will give you a complete report on your vehicle, including the manufacturer, model and make body style, engine size as well as the assembly plant year it was made.
VINs first came into use in 1954, but up to 1981, they were offered in a variety. In the year 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current format 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. For instance, if your car requires an ignition chip, you'll need to visit a dealer or locksmith that can swap your key for one that can start your vehicle. 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 just contact your local dealer to have new keys made. Nowadays, it's much more complicated than that. The dealership might not be the best option for replacing your lost car keys.
You can still purchase a traditional car key from the dealership but it is best to contact an automotive lock. They will be able get you back on the way faster and charge less than the dealership.
Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before calling someone to replace your keys. This is vital as it will be required to make a new replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN is located on the driver's dashboard or included in your owner's manual.
Dealerships can replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. However, this doesn't assurance that they'll be able to help you. It depends on the make and model of your car, as well as whether keys have complicated programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and ask for an expert in service if you are unsure if they can assist.
If you have a smart key that's been lost or stolen, you'll have to visit your dealership in order to have it replaced. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a certain type of key to reset and function properly.
This process is more complex than it was previously be, so you should be prepared to pay a higher cost to restore this feature. In the event that your original key is stolen or damaged the dealership will be able to provide you with an identical backup. If you choose to go this route, make sure to have all the information needed along with you and an identification photo. This will make the process more efficient for everyone involved.
Contact a locksmith
The most important step to take when replacing keys to your car that have been lost is to call a locksmith. A reputable locksmith will be able cut and program a new key for your vehicle while you wait. However, they will require the year and make of your car along with evidence that you own the car (a copy of your registration or title will do it).
Before calling a locksmith on the phone, though, make sure that you have checked every possible place where your keys could be. This includes checking pockets in jackets and pants or purses, as well as any other bags you might have used. You can also look for your keys in places that you wouldn't normally place them, like on the floor behind the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you've tried this and still cannot find your keys, you should call for help.
For traditional keys locksmiths should be able to replace keys on the spot for around $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance tow your vehicle to a dealer to purchase a new key.
Locksmiths can often program and cut new keys for cars that have more advanced features, such as smart keys, transponder 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 cut and program the key in a flash for you.
Many locksmiths can also remove broken or bent keys that are usually caused by locking them inside your vehicle. It is recommended that you leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. If you attempt to do it yourself could result in further damage.
In addition to helping you replace keys to your car that have been lost locksmiths can also give you advice about how to avoid keys from being lost or stolen. Prevention measures like keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home will assist you in avoiding losing your car keys ever again.