Everything You Need To Learn About Replace Lost Car Keys
How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired, so put on your favorite sweats and grab a slice of pizza to watch your latest TV show. You realize that your car keys are missing.
Know your options before you be in a panic. There are several ways to replace car keys that have been lost, but most of them require the dealership or a professional locksmith.
Check the locks on your car.
If you lose your keys to your car, it's recommended to first check your vehicle. In the end, we tend to forget where we've put them, especially when we're in a rush or distracted. Finding pop over here lost in the car can be relatively easy in the event that your vehicle is thoroughly searched.
Start by sitting in the driver's seat. Move the seats forward and back as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your car for your car key. Make sure you check compartments with zippers and small spaces for the keys, too. Be sure to check your backpack, purse or tote bag for keys.
Many modern cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from an extended distance. They usually have an internal chip that communicates to the car to allow you into the vehicle and to start the engine. You'll need to visit your dealer to get a new key fob if you've lost it.
Some older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit in an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of keys, it's likely that locksmiths are capable of creating a new key for you, as long as you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
The dealer is also able to provide the replacement however it will cost more. The dealer will need to pair up the computer chip with your car. This can cost between $200 and $250 dependent on the car's make and model.
Be sure to check your insurance policy prior to deciding to purchase a new car key. If you have comprehensive coverage you might be able to claim it to pay for the cost of a replacement key. Check with your insurance provider whether you have roadside assistance coverage. This could come in handy if you ever need it. The good news is that there are now many companies offering roadside assistance packages and you are likely to find services near you.
Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (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, monitor inventory, report crashes and thefts, as well as more. In the United States the VIN is typically stamped on a label or a plate that's affixed to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb, or sometimes in front of the motor block. Your VIN can be found in other documents like your registration for your vehicle, title, and insurance documents.
Your VIN is unique to your vehicle and it's recommended to store it somewhere safe. In the event that you lose your keys, you'll be in a position to make use of it to get a replacement key made quickly and easily. A locksmith can decode the VIN and find the manufacturer's code for your model. This will work with your lock.
The majority of passenger cars have their VIN on a label situated between the windshield and the dash on the driver's side. You can also look for it on the door jamb on the driver's side, or in front of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. In some cases, the VIN is even embedded into your windshield or windows as part of a security measure to prevent theft.
You can verify your VIN by entering it into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth analysis of your vehicle's model, manufacturer of the body, type of engine, size, assembly facility, and the year of manufacture.
VINs were first used in 1954, however, until 1981, they came 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 is correct, then you will be able to purchase new keys at the majority of dealerships and locksmiths for automotive, based on the kind of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if your car requires an ignition chip you'll need to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer who can replace your key with one that will be able to start your car. You can also find basic keys at hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could easily contact your local dealer to get a new set. It's a lot more complicated today. The dealership may not be the best place to go for replacing your car keys that have been lost.
You can still purchase a traditional car key from a dealership but it is best to contact an automotive lock. They're more likely be in a position to get you back on the road fast and likely to charge less than the dealership would.
Before you contact anyone to replace your car keys, make a note of the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is important because it will be needed to make a new replacement car key for your car. The VIN can be found on the driver's dashboard or printed inside of the owner's manual.
Dealerships can replace car keys for the majority of manufacturers. It is not a 100% warranty, however. It depends on the model and make of your car as well as whether keys are equipped with complicated programming. If you're not sure whether not your dealership can help you, bring your vehicle to the dealership and request a chat with the service manager.
If your smart key was stolen or lost the key will need to be replaced by a dealership. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a specific type of key to function correctly and reset.
This process is more complicated than it was in the past so make sure you're willing to pay the additional cost to restore this feature. Dealers can also provide you with another key that's identical to the original one in the event that the lost key was damaged or stolen. If you decide to take this route, make sure you have all the necessary information along with you along with an identification photo. This will make it easier for all to complete the process.
Call an expert locksmith
The most important step in replacing lost car keys is to call a locksmith. A skilled locksmith can cut and program a new key for your vehicle while you wait. They will need the year model, make, and year of your vehicle, with proof of ownership (a duplicate of your registration or title).
Make sure to look over every possible location for your keys prior to you call a locksmith. Check pockets on pants, jackets and purses. Also, check any other bags that you may have used. You can also search for your keys in places you would not normally look, such as the floor behind the doorway table or underneath the couch. If you've tried all this and are still struggling to locate your keys, it's time for you to contact someone.
For keys that are traditional locksmiths will be able to repair keys on the spot for around $20. This is less than what you would pay to have roadside assistance tow your car to a dealership and buy a replacement key.
Locksmiths can often program and cut new keys for cars with more advanced features, such as transponder keys, smart keys, or switchblade keys. These more complex keys may require that you provide the VIN number of the car, but an experienced locksmith has the right tools to complete this on the spot for you.
The majority of locksmiths also have the ability to remove damaged or bent keys that can occur if you lock them accidentally in your car. It is recommended that you leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. If you attempt to do it yourself could cause more damage.
In addition to helping you replace keys that were lost in your car locksmiths can also offer advice on how to avoid keys from getting misplaced 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 key again.