The Reasons You Should Experience Replace Lost Car Keys At The Very Least Once In Your Lifetime

How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired and ready to put on your favorite sweats Grab a pizza and watch your favorite TV show. You find that your car keys have disappeared.

Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are a variety of ways to replace a lost car key, but the majority of these require a locksmith or dealer.

Check the Locks on Your Car

It's best to check your car first when you lose your keys. We often forget where we put them especially when we're rushing or distracted. Finding keys lost in the car can be fairly easy if your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Start with the driver's seat. The seats can be moved forward and backwards as well as up and down to check every inch of your car for the car key. Be sure to look around zippered areas and small compartments for the keys, too. You should also carefully check your backpack, purse, or tote bag, for keys.

A lot of modern cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. 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. If you've lost your car's keys fob, you'll need go to the dealership to get an alternative one created.

Some older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you have lost one of these keys, it's possible that a locksmith will be capable of creating a new key for you as provided you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title.

The dealer may also offer the replacement, but it will cost more. The dealer will need to pair up a computer chip for your car. g28carkeys can cost between $200 and $250 depending on your car's model and make.

Be sure to check your insurance policy prior to purchase the new car key. If you have a comprehensive insurance policy you might be able to claim on it to cover the cost of a new key. Check with your insurance provider if you have roadside service coverage. This could come in handy if you ever need it. There are many companies that offer roadside assistance programs. You should be able to locate one close to you.

Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (VIN)

The number for identification of the vehicle is an alpha-numeric number that is unique to 17 numbers for every vehicle that is on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and track inventory, report crashes and thefts, and more. In the United States, the VIN is typically stamped into a label or plate on the dashboard of your vehicle, driver's side door jamb, and sometimes in front of the engine block. Your VIN can be found in other documents such as your vehicle registration as well as title and insurance documents.

Your VIN is unique to your vehicle and it's a good idea to keep it safe. If you lose your keys you can easily and quickly obtain a new key made using the VIN. Locksmiths can decode the VIN and retrieve the manufacturer's code for the model you have. This will work with your lock.

The majority of passenger cars have their VIN on a sticker that's situated where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. It can also be found on the driver-side door jamb or on the side of the engine block of larger trucks and commercial vehicles. Some VINs are etched directly into the windshield or windows of your vehicle as a theft security measure.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you an entire report on your vehicle, including manufacturer, make and model body style, engine size, assembly plant and the year it was made.


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

If your VIN number is correct, you can purchase new keys from most locksmiths, automotive or dealerships based on the type of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if you vehicle requires an ignition chip, you'll have to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer who can swap your key for one that will start your vehicle. You can also get standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys weren't a big deal. You could easily contact your local dealer to get a new set. Today, it's a lot more complex than that. If you're looking to get your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always the best option.

You can still get a traditional car key from the dealership but it is best to contact an automotive lock. They will be able to get you back on your way faster and charge less than the dealership.

Before you call someone to replace your lost car keys, make a note of the number for your vehicle identification (VIN). This is crucial because you will need it to create an alternative car key for you. The VIN is located on the dashboard of your car or it could be found in the owner's manual.

Dealerships are able to replace keys for the majority of automobile manufacturers. It is not a 100% assurance however. It depends on the make and model of your vehicle and whether or not the keys have complicated programming. If you're not sure whether or your dealer can assist you, bring your vehicle to the dealership and request a chat with the service manager.

If your smart key was lost or stolen the key will need to be replaced at the dealership. This is because your car's security features require a specific kind of key to reset and work correctly.

This process is more complicated than it used to be, so make sure you're prepared to pay a higher cost to restore this feature. A dealer will also be able to provide you with a backup key that's similar to the one you have in case your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you choose to go this route, be sure you have all the information needed with you along with a photo ID. This will make it easier for everyone to go through the process.

Contact a locksmith

The most important step in replacing lost car keys is to contact locksmith. A locksmith with experience will be able to program and cut a new car key while you wait. But, they'll require the year and make of your vehicle as well as evidence that you own the car (a copy of your registration or title will do it).

Be sure to check every possible location for your keys prior to when you call a locksmith. This includes checking the pockets of jackets and pants, purses and any other bags you've used. You could also search for your keys in places you might not normally go, such as the floor behind the table behind the doorway or under the couch. If you've tried all this and 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 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 key.

Locksmiths often cut and program new keys for cars that have more advanced features, such as smart keys, transponder keys, or switchblade keys. Some of these more complicated keys require you to provide the VIN number for your vehicle, but locksmiths will be able to cut and program the key immediately.

Many locksmiths are also able to remove broken or bent keys that are usually caused by locking them in your vehicle. It is best to leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. If you attempt to do it yourself can cause further damage.

A locksmith can assist you replace keys that are lost in your car and give tips on how to prevent future keys from being lost or stolen. The best preventative measures include keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home could help you to never lose your car key again.

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Pub: 26 Mar 2024 13:26 UTC
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