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How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired and ready to put on your favorite sweats, grab some pizza, and watch the latest TV show. However, you realize the keys to your car aren't to be found.

Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are several ways to replace keys for cars that have been lost however the majority of these require a locksmith or dealer.

Check your car's locks

If you've lost your car keys, it's always best to start by checking your vehicle. After all, we often forget where they're especially when we're in a rush or distracted. Finding lost car keys can be fairly simple if your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Start with the driver's seat. Make sure to inspect every inch of the car by moving the seats up and down, as well as back and forth. Also, feel around small compartments or zippered areas to locate the keys. Be sure to check your backpack, purse or tote bag with care for keys.

Many modern cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. Most of the time, these devices come with an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to allow you in and start the engine. You'll have to visit your dealer to get an alternative key fob if you've lost it.

Some older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith could be able to create a replacement key for you if you have evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.

You can also purchase an upgrade from the dealership, but this will be more expensive. The dealership must integrate a computer chip into your vehicle, which could cost $200-$250 or more depending on the make and model of your car.

Make sure you check your insurance policy prior to purchase a new car key. If you have coverage that is comprehensive you might be able to claim on it to cover the cost of replacing a key. Check with your insurance provider whether you have roadside assistance coverage. This could come in handy in the event that you need it. There are a variety of companies that offer roadside assistance programs. You should be able to find one in your area.

Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (VIN)

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

Your VIN is unique to your vehicle, so it's recommended to store it somewhere safe. If you lose your keys, you can quickly and easily get a new key made using the VIN. Locksmiths can decode your VIN to retrieve the manufacturer's key code for your specific model which can then be used with your lock.

The VIN is typically located on a label that is placed on the dashboard of the driver, where the windshield meets it. It can also be found on the driver-side door jamb or in front the engine block of commercial and larger vehicles. In some cases there are instances where the VIN is even written into your windshield or windows as part of a anti-theft measure.

You can verify your VIN by entering it into a web-based VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth analysis of your vehicle, including the manufacturer, model, body type, engine size, assembly facility and the year of its manufacturing.

VINs first appeared in 1954, when VINs were first introduced. However, up to 1981, they were available in different configurations. In the year 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current format of 17 characters.

If your VIN is correct, then you should be able to get new keys at most dealerships as well as locksmiths for automobiles, based on the type of key your car requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip you will have to visit a locksmith or dealer to replace your key. If not, you can buy standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

In the past the loss of your car keys was not an issue. You could easily contact your local dealer to purchase a new set. It's a lot more difficult today. The dealership may not be the best place to go if you need to replace your lost car keys.

While you may obtain a traditional key from the dealership, the best choice is to call an auto locksmith. They will be able to get you back on your way faster and charge less than the dealership.

Before you contact anyone to replace your car keys, note down the number for your vehicle identification (VIN). This is crucial because it will be required to make a new replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN is located on the dashboard of the driver's side, or it may be included in the owner's manual.

Dealerships are able to replace keys for a majority of car manufacturers. This is not a warranty however. It's dependent on the make and model of your car, as well as whether keys are equipped with complex programming. If you're unsure whether or the dealership you're dealing with can assist you, bring your car in and ask to speak with the service manager.

If your smart key has been stolen or lost, it will need to be replaced by a dealership. This is because the security features of your car require a specific kind of key in order to function correctly and lost key what to Do reset.

This process is more complicated than it was in the past, so make sure you're willing to pay a higher price to restore this feature. A dealership can also give you a backup key that's similar to the one you have in case your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you opt to go this route, make sure you have all the required information, including a photo ID. This will facilitate the process for everyone involved.

Call a Locksmith

The most important step in replacing lost key what to Do car keys is to contact a locksmith. A locksmith with experience will be able program and cut a new key for your car while you are waiting. But, they'll need to know the year, make and model of your vehicle, as well as evidence that you own it (a copy of your registration or title should suffice).

Make sure you check every possible location for your keys before you contact a locksmith. This includes checking the pockets of pants and jackets, purses and any other bags you might have used. You could also search for your keys in places that you wouldn't normally place them, such as on the floor under the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you have done this and still cannot find your keys, you should call for help.

A locksmith prices for lost car keys should be able to replace traditional keys on the spot, for about $20. This is less expensive than having roadside assistance tow your car to a dealership to purchase a new key.

Locksmiths can often program and cut new keys for cars equipped with more advanced features, like transponder keys, smart keys or switchblade keys. These more complex keys may require you to provide the VIN number of your car however professional locksmiths will have the tools to do this on the spot for you.

Many locksmiths can also remove broken or bent keys that are usually caused by locking them in your vehicle. Trying to remove a broken key on your own could cause more damage, so this is something that should be left to the experts.

A locksmith can assist you replace keys that are lost in your car and give tips on how to prevent future keys being misplaced or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home could assist you in avoiding losing your car key again.