Seven Reasons Why Replace Lost Car Keys Is Important

How to Replace lost key fob Car Keys

You're tired, so put on your favorite sweats and grab a slice of pizza to watch your latest TV show. However, you discover that your car keys are nowhere to be found.

Be aware of your options prior to be in a panic. There are several ways to replace lost car keys, but most of them require the dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check the locks on your car.

It is best to look in your car first if you lose your keys. We often forget the location of our keys, especially if we're busy or distracted. Finding keys to your car may be relatively easy if your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Start by sitting in the driver's seat. Examine every inch of the car by moving the seats up and down, as well as back and forth. Be sure to look around zippered areas and small compartments for keys, too. Be sure to check your backpack, purse or tote bag carefully for keys.

Many modern cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. They usually have an internal chip that connects to the car to allow you into the vehicle and then start the motor. You'll need to visit your dealer to obtain an alternative key fob if you've lost it.

Certain older cars still have keys made of metal 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 evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.

You can also get an upgrade from a dealer, but this will be more expensive. The dealer will need to connect the computer chip with your vehicle. This could cost between $200 and $250 depending on your car's make and model.

Make sure you check your insurance policy prior to deciding to purchase a new car key. If you have a comprehensive insurance policy you may be able to claim it to pay for the cost of replacing a key. Moreover, it's also important to inquire with your car keys lost no spare insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance coverage to assist you in the event of an emergency. The good news is that there are numerous companies that offer roadside assistance and you should be able to find services near you.

Check your vehicle's identification (VIN).

The vehicle identification number is a unique 17-digit alpha-numeric code for each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and monitor inventory, report crashes and thefts, and more. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into the form of a plate or label on the dashboard of your vehicle, jambs on the door of the driver's side, and sometimes, in front of the engine block. Your VIN can be found in other places such as your vehicle registration as well as title and insurance documents.

It's important to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your car. That way, if you ever lose your keys, you'll be in a position to use it to get an alternative key quickly and quickly. A locksmith can decode the VIN and retrieve the manufacturer's code for your model. This will work with your lock.

The VIN is typically located on a label that is placed on the dashboard of the driver's side, 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. Certain VINs are etched directly into the windshield or windows of your vehicle to serve as a security measure.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you a complete report on your vehicle, which includes the manufacturer, make and how to replace lost car Key model, body style, engine size, assembly plant and the year it was made.

VINs were first introduced in 1954, but until 1981, they came in a variety. In the year 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current format of 17 characters.

If your VIN is correct, then you should be able to purchase new keys at the majority of dealerships and locksmiths for automobiles, based on the type of key your car requires. If your car has an ignition chip you will have to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer to replace your key. Otherwise, you can simply buy standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

Not long ago losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could call your local dealership to get new keys made. It's a lot more complicated today. If you're looking to have your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always the most ideal option.

While you can certainly still obtain a traditional key from the dealership, the best choice is to contact an automotive locksmith. They can get you back on the way faster and charge less than the dealership.

Before you contact someone to replace your car keys, make a note of the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is crucial 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 can replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. This isn't a warranty, however. It's contingent on the model and make of your vehicle and whether or not the keys have complex 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 lost or stolen, it will need to be replaced at the dealership. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a specific kind of key to be reset and function properly.

The process is now more involved than it was in the past and you should make sure you're willing to pay the extra price to restore this feature. If your original key is damaged or stolen the dealership will be able to provide you with a duplicate backup. If you decide to take this route, be sure to carry all the information needed on hand, as well as a photo ID. This will help everyone to go through the process.

Call an expert locksmith

Calling a locksmith is the first step to replace lost car keys. A reputable locksmith will be able cut and program a new key for your car while you wait. But, they'll need to know the year and make of your vehicle as well as proof that you own it (a copy of your registration or title should do it).

Make sure you check all possible locations for your keys prior to when you call a locksmith. Examine the pockets on pants, jackets and purses. Also check any other bags you may have used. You can also look for your keys in places that you would not normally put them, like on the floor under the doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried all this but are still unable to find your keys, then it's time for you to contact someone.

For traditional keys locksmiths will be able to repair them on the spot for about $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance tow your vehicle to a dealer to purchase a new one.

Locksmiths can often program and cut new keys for cars equipped with more advanced features, such as transponder keys, smart keys or switchblade keys. Some of these more complex keys require the VIN number of your car, but a locksmith will be able to complete the task in a flash.

Locksmiths are also able to capability of removing broken or bent keys, which can occur when you lock them accidentally in your car. It is best to leave the removal of a broken key to a professional. If you attempt to do it yourself could cause more damage.

A locksmith can help you replace lost car keys and also give advice on how to replace lost car key to avoid future keys from being lost or stolen. Prevention measures like keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home can aid you in never losing your car key again.