How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You’re exhausted, so you put on your favorite sweats and grab a slice of pizza to watch your latest TV show. However, you realize the keys to your car aren’t to be found.
Know your options before you panic. There are many methods to replace lost car keys however, the majority of them require the dealership or a professional locksmith.
Check the locks on your car.
If you lose your car keys, it’s always best to start by checking your vehicle. We often forget where we put them especially when we’re in a hurry or distracted. Finding keys lost in the car can be fairly easy when your car 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, back and forth. Make sure you check zippered areas and small compartments for the keys, too. Also, be sure to check your backpack, purse or tote bag for keys.
Many modern vehicles come with key fobs which allow you to lock and unlock your 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 keys fob, you’ll have to go to the dealership to get a new one created.
Some older vehicles still use traditional keys made of metal that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith could be able to make an alternative key for you if you have proof of ownership like your registration or title.
The dealer may also offer a replacement however it will cost more. The dealership must integrate a computer chip into your vehicle, which could be priced between $200 and $250, or more, based on the model and make of your car.
Before you purchase a car key replacement, be sure to consider your insurance policy. If you have comprehensive coverage you may be able to claim it to cover the cost of a replacement key. It’s also worthwhile to ask your insurance company if they have roadside assistance insurance that can aid you in the case of an emergency. The good news is that there are now numerous companies that offer roadside assistance, so you should be able to find services near you.
Check your vehicle’s identification number (VIN).
The number for identification of the vehicle is an alpha-numeric code with 17 digits for every vehicle that is on the road. It’s used to identify vehicles and track inventory, report crashes and thefts, as well as more. In the United States the VIN is usually stamped on a label or a plate that’s affixed to your dashboard, driver-side door jamb and sometimes even on 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 and it’s recommended to store it in a safe place. In the event that you should ever lose your keys, you can utilize it to have the replacement key made quickly and quickly. A locksmith can decode the VIN and get the manufacturer’s code for your model. This will work with your lock.
The VIN is usually found on a label on the dashboard of the driver’s side, where the windshield meets it. You can also locate it on the driver-side door jamb or on the side of the engine block of larger commercial and truck vehicles. In some cases it is possible that the VIN is even written into your windows or windshields as part of a anti-theft measure.
Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth look at your vehicle’s manufacturer, model body type, engine size, assembly facility, and year of manufacturing.
VINs first appeared in 1954 when VINs first appeared. However, up to 1981 they were available in a variety of configurations. In 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 obtain new keys at the majority of dealerships and locksmiths for automotive, based on the type of key your car requires. For instance, if you vehicle requires an ignition chip, you’ll need to go to a dealer or locksmith that can swap your key for one that will be able to start your vehicle. Otherwise, you can simply get standard keys from hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
A few years ago the loss of your car keys was not an issue. You could simply call your local dealer to get a new set. It’s more complicated today. If you’re looking to have your lost car keys replaced, g28carkeys.co.uk the dealership isn’t always the most ideal option.
You can still purchase a traditional car key from a dealership, but it’s best to call an automotive lock. They will be able to get you back on your quicker and at a lower cost than a dealership.
Note down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you call someone to replace your lost keys. This is important because it will be required in order for someone to create a replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN can be found on the dashboard of the driver’s side, or it may be printed inside of your owner’s manual.
Dealerships are able replace car keys for the majority of manufacturers. This is not a guarantee, however. It is all dependent on the model and make, as well as whether the keys are intelligent or have complicated programming. If you’re unsure whether or not your dealership can help you, bring your vehicle in and ask to speak with the service manager.
If your smart key was stolen or lost, it will need to be replaced at the dealership. This is because the security features of your car require a certain type of key in order to be reset and function properly.
The process is now more complicated than it used to be so make sure you’re willing to pay the extra cost to restore this feature. Dealers will also be able to provide you with an alternative key that is similar to the one you have in case your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you choose to go this route, make sure you have all the required information on hand and an ID photo. This will facilitate the process for everyone involved.
Call a locksmith
The most important step in replacing lost car keys is to contact an experienced locksmith. A skilled locksmith can cut and program the new key for your vehicle while you wait. They will need the year, make, and model of your vehicle, along with proof of ownership (a copy your registration or title).
Make sure to look over all possible locations for your keys prior to when you call a locksmith. Check the pockets of jackets, pants and purses. Also check any other bags you might have used. You could also search for your keys in areas where you don’t usually put them, like on the floor behind the doorway table or under the couch. If you have done this but are still unable to locate your keys, it’s time to contact a professional for assistance.
A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot, for around $20. This is less than the price you’d pay to have roadside assistance tow your vehicle to the dealership and buy a replacement key.
Locksmiths are often able to program and cut new keys for cars that have more advanced features, including transponder keys, smart keys or switchblade keys. Certain of these keys require the VIN number for your car, but a locksmith will be able to complete the task in a flash.
Locksmiths are also able to ability to remove damaged keys that are bent or broken that can occur if you accidentally lock them in your car. It is recommended that you leave the removal of a damaged key to a professional. Doing it yourself could result in further damage.
In addition to helping you replace lost car keys, a locksmith can also offer advice on how to prevent future keys from being lost car key replacement or stolen. Preventive steps, like 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 again.