How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired, so change into your favorite sweats and grab a slice of pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. However, you realize your car keys are nowhere to be found.
Before you panic, know your options. There are many ways to replace a lost car key however the majority of they require a locksmith or dealer.
Check the locks on your car.
It's best to check your car first if you lose your keys. We often forget where they are, especially when we're distracted or in a rush. Finding keys to your car may be fairly easy in the event that your vehicle is thoroughly searched.
Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. Make sure to inspect every inch of the car by moving the seats up and down, as well as back and back and forth. Make sure you check zippered areas and small compartments for keys, too. Also, you should carefully search your backpack, purse or tote bag for the keys.
A lot of modern cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. These devices usually have an internal chip that communicates to the car in order to allow you access to the vehicle and start the engine. If you've lost your car key fob, you'll have to visit the dealership to have a new one made.
Certain older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you have lost 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 get an upgrade from the dealership, but this will be much more expensive. The dealership will have to pair a computer chip with your car, which can cost between $200 and $250 or more, depending on the make and model of your car.
Make sure you check your insurance policy prior to purchase the new car key. You could be able to claim on your comprehensive insurance to pay for the cost of buying an additional car key. Moreover, it's also important to inquire with your car insurance provider if you have roadside assistance coverage to aid you in the case of an emergency. There are numerous companies that provide roadside assistance packages. You should be able to find one near you.
Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN).
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to each vehicle on the road. It is used to identify vehicles as well as track inventory. It is also used to report accidents and thefts. In the United States, the VIN is typically a label or plate on the dashboard of your car and jambs on the door of the driver's side, and sometimes on the engine block. You can also find your VIN in other places, including your vehicle registration, title and insurance documents.
lost keys for car no spare is unique to your vehicle It's best to keep it safe. If you lose your keys, you can easily and quickly get a new one made using the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN to locate the key code from the manufacturer for your particular model that will then work with your lock.
The VIN is typically located on a label that is placed on the dashboard of the driver's side at the point where the windshield joins it. It can also be found on the driver-side door jamb or on the front of the engine block of larger commercial and truck vehicles. In lost my car key and have no spare there are instances where the VIN is even etched into your windows or windshields to provide an security measure against theft.
You can verify your VIN by entering it into an online VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth analysis of your vehicle, including the model, manufacturer, body type, engine size, assembly facility and the year of its manufacture.
VINs were first used in 1954, but up to 1981, they were available in a variety of configurations. In the year 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current 17-character format.
If your VIN is valid, then you'll be able to purchase new keys at most dealerships as well as locksmiths for automotive, based on the type of key your car requires. If your car has an ignition chip, you will require an authorized locksmith or dealer to replace your key. You can also purchase standard keys at hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
Not long ago, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could just contact your local dealer to get a new set of keys made. It's more complicated today. The dealership may not be the best place to go in case you want to replace your car keys that have been lost.
Although you could obtain a traditional key from the dealership, the best option is to contact an automotive locksmith. They can to get you back on your faster and for less than a dealership.
Note down lost car key with no spare (VIN) number before calling someone to replace your lost keys. This is important because it will be needed to create a new replacement car key for your car. The VIN is located on the dashboard of your car or could be found in the owner's guide.
Dealerships are able to replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. However, this doesn't guarantee that they'll be able assist you. It's contingent on the model and make of your car, as well as whether keys are equipped with complex programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and ask for the service manager if aren't sure if they can assist.
If you have a smart key that's been lost or stolen, you'll have to visit your dealer in order to have it replaced. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a certain type of key to be reset and function properly.
This process is more complicated than it was previously be, so make sure you're prepared to pay a higher price to restore this feature. If your original key is damaged or stolen A dealership could provide you with an identical backup. If you decide to take this route, be sure to carry all the information needed with you and an ID photo. This will make the process more efficient for everyone involved.
Contact a locksmith
Calling a locksmith is the first step in replacing lost car keys. An experienced locksmith can cut and program the new key for your vehicle while you wait. However, they will require the year and make of your car along with proof that you own it (a copy of your registration or title will do it).
Make sure you check every possible location for your keys prior to when you call a locksmith. Examine the pockets on the pants, jackets and purses. Also check any other bags that you may have used. You can also search for your keys in places that you would not normally look like the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or under the couch. If you've tried all this but are still not able to locate your keys, it's time for you to contact someone.
A locksmith should be able to replace traditional 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 one.
Locksmiths can often cut and program new keys for cars that have more advanced features, including transponder keys, smart keys, or switchblade keys. Certain of these keys require you to provide the VIN number for your car, however a locksmith should be able to do it immediately.
The majority of locksmiths also have the capability of removing broken keys that are bent or broken that can occur if you lock them accidentally in your car. If you attempt to remove a damaged key by yourself could cause more damage, and this task should be left to the professionals.
A locksmith can help replace lost car keys and also offer advice on how to avoid future keys from being lost or stolen. Preventive measures, such as keeping a spare set keys at home or in your wallet, can go a long way towards making sure you never lose your car keys ever again.