How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're exhausted, so you put on your favorite sweats and grab a slice of pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. You discover that the keys to your car have disappeared.
Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are many methods to replace car keys that have been lost however, the majority of them require a dealership or a professional locksmith.
Check the locks on your car.
It's best to check your car first when you lose your keys. We often don't know where they are, especially if we're distracted or in a rush. Finding lost car keys can be fairly simple in the event that your vehicle is thoroughly searched.
Begin by sitting in the driver's seat. Move the seats forward and backwards as well as up and down to check every inch of your vehicle for your car key. Be sure to look around zippered areas and small compartments for the keys, too. Also, you should carefully search your backpack, purse or tote bag 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 allow you in and start the engine. If you've lost your car's key fob, you'll have to go to the dealership to get a new one made.
Some older cars still use traditional keys made of metal that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith might be able to make a replacement key for you if you've got proof of ownership like your registration or title.
You can also get an entirely new replacement from the dealership, but this will be much more expensive. The dealership will need to integrate a computer chip into your vehicle, which could cost between $200 and $250 or more, depending on the make and model of your car.
Be sure to check your insurance policy before you purchase a new car key. If you have comprehensive coverage, you may be able to claim it to pay for the cost of a replacement key. It's also important to inquire with your car insurance provider if you have roadside assistance coverage that will assist you in the event of an emergency. There are many companies that provide roadside assistance programs. You should be able locate one close to you.
Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN)
The vehicle identification number is an alpha-numeric code with 17 digits for each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and keep track of inventory. It can also be used to report thefts and crashes. In the United States the VIN is typically a sticker or a plate that is attached to your dashboard, driver-side door jamb, or sometimes behind the motor block. You can also find your VIN in other places, like the registration of your vehicle, title and insurance documents.
It's important to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your car. If you lose your keys you can quickly and easily get new keys made using the VIN. Locksmiths can decode your VIN and find the key code of the manufacturer specific to your lock which can then be used with your lock.
The majority of passenger vehicles have their VIN on a sticker that's located between the windshield and the dash on the driver's side. You can also locate it on the driver-side door jamb or on the front of the engine block of larger trucks and commercial vehicles. In some instances there are instances where the VIN is even written into your windows or windshields as part of a security measure to prevent theft.
You can verify your VIN by entering it into a online 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 manufacturing.
VINs first appeared in 1954. However, up to 1981 they were available in various configurations. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current one of 17 characters.
If your VIN number is correct, you can purchase new keys from a variety of locksmiths, automotive or dealerships based on the type of key your vehicle 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
It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys weren't an issue. You could simply call your local dealer to get a new set. It's a lot more difficult today. If you're in the market to have your lost car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always the best option.
While you may purchase a traditional key at the dealership, the best choice is to call an auto locksmith. They're more likely to be in a position to get you back on the road quickly and probably cost less than the dealership would.
Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you contact someone to replace your lost keys. This is important as the person who needs it will create an alternative car key for you. The VIN is on the dashboard of your vehicle, or may be printed in your owner's guide.
Dealerships are able to replace cars keys for most manufacturers. However, this isn't a assurance that they'll be able to help you. It is all dependent on the model and make, as well as whether the keys are smart or 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 stolen or lost it must be replaced at the dealership. This is because the security features of your car require a specific type of key to function correctly and reset.
The process is more complicated 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 stolen or damaged, a dealership can provide you with a duplicate backup. If you choose to go this route, be sure you have all the required information on hand and an identification photo. This will make it easier for all to complete the process.
Call a locksmith
The most important step in replacing keys to your car that have been lost is to contact an experienced locksmith. A skilled locksmith can cut and program an entirely new key for your car while you wait. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle, along with evidence of ownership (a duplicate of your registration or title).
Be sure to check every possible location for your keys before you call a locksmith. Examine the pockets on jackets, pants and purses. Also check any other bags you might have used. You can also search for your keys in places that you wouldn't normally look, such as the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or underneath the couch. If you've tried all of this and are still unable to find your keys, it's time to contact someone.
A locksmith should be able to replace traditional keys on the spot for about $20. This is less expensive than having roadside assistance take your car to a dealership to purchase a new one.
Locksmiths can often cut and program new keys for cars equipped with more advanced features, such as transponder keys, smart keys or switchblade keys. Certain of these keys require you to provide the VIN number for your car, however locksmiths is likely to be able do it in a flash.
Locksmiths are also able to ability to remove damaged keys that are bent or broken which can happen when you lock them accidentally in your car. It is recommended to leave the removal of a broken key to a professional. If you attempt to do it yourself can cause further damage.
A locksmith can assist you replace keys to your car that have been lost and provide tips on how to prevent future keys being misplaced or stolen. Taking preventative measures, such as keeping a spare set of keys at home or in your wallet, can make a huge difference in making sure you never lose your car keys ever again.