How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You’re tired, so you put on your favorite sweats and order a pizza to watch your latest TV show. You realize that the keys to your car have disappeared.
Know your options before you get in a panic. There are several ways to replace keys for cars that have been lost however the majority of these require a locksmith or dealer.
Check the locks on your car.
It is best to look in your car first if you lose your keys. We often forget where we put them particularly when we’re rushing or distracted. Finding keys lost in the car can be relatively easy if your vehicle is thoroughly searched.
Begin by sitting in the driver’s seat. Make sure to inspect every inch of the car by moving the seats up and down, as well as back and forward. Also, check the compartments with zippers or small spaces to find keys. You should also carefully check your backpack, purse, or tote bag for the keys.
Many modern vehicles come with key fobs which allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. They usually have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to let you in and start the engine. You’ll have to visit your dealer to get a new key fob if you’ve lost it.
Some older cars still use traditional keys made of metal that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose the keys, a locksmith may be able to make an alternative key for you if you’ve got proof of ownership like your registration or title.
The dealer is also able to provide the replacement however, it will cost more. The dealership will need to pair a computer chip with your car, which could be priced between $200 and $250, or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.
Make sure you check your insurance policy prior to purchase the new car key. You might be able to claim your comprehensive insurance policy to pay for the cost of buying an additional car key. It’s also important to inquire with your car insurance company if they have roadside assistance coverage to aid you in the case of an emergency. There are many companies that offer roadside assistance plans. You should be able to find one in your area.
Check your vehicle’s identification number (VIN).
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to every vehicle on the road. It’s used to identify vehicles as well as track 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’s affixed to your dashboard, driver’s side door jamb, or sometimes on the motor block. Your VIN can be found in different places like your vehicle registration, title, and insurance documents.
It is important to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your car. This way, should you lose your keys, you can utilize it to have a replacement key made quickly and easily. A locksmith can decode your VIN and find the manufacturer’s codes for your particular model. This will work with your lock.
The majority of passenger vehicles have their VIN on a sticker that’s placed between the windshield and the dash on the driver’s side. You can also look for it on the door jamb on the driver’s side, or in front of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. Certain VINs are etched directly into the windows or windshields of your vehicle as a theft prevention measure.
You can check your VIN by entering it into a web-based VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth analysis of your vehicle’s model, manufacturer body type, engine size, assembly facility and year of manufacture.
VINs were first used in 1954, but up to 1981, they came in a variety of formats. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current format of 17 characters.
If your VIN is valid, then you’ll be able to purchase new keys at most dealerships as well as automotive locksmiths, depending on the kind of key your vehicle requires. For example, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip, you’ll need to go to an authorized locksmith or G28 dealer who can replace your key with one that can start your vehicle. Otherwise, you can simply buy standard keys at hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
Not long ago losing your car keys was not a huge deal. You could just contact your local dealership to get new keys made. Today, it’s a lot more complicated than that. The dealership might not be the best option for replacing your car keys that have been lost.
While you may purchase a traditional key at the dealership, your best bet is to call an auto locksmith. They can get you back on the way faster and charge less than the dealership.
Note down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before calling someone to replace your lost keys. This is crucial because it will be required in order for someone to create a replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN is on the dashboard of your car, or may be printed in the owner’s guide.
Dealerships are able to replace car keys for the majority of manufacturers. However, this isn’t a assurance that they’ll help you. It’s contingent on the make and model of your car as well as whether keys are equipped with complex programming. If you’re not sure whether your dealer can assist you, bring your car in and ask to speak with the service manager.
If you have a smart key that’s lost or stolen, you’ll have to visit your dealership to get it replaced. This is because the security features in your car require a certain type of key in order to be reset and function properly.
This process is much more involved than it used to be, so be sure that you’re willing to pay the additional cost to restore this feature. A dealership can also provide you with another key that’s identical to the one you have in case your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you choose to do this ensure that you have all the necessary information, including an ID photo. This will help everyone to go through the process.
Call a Locksmith
The most crucial step to take in replacing lost car key keys to your car that have been lost is to contact a locksmith. An experienced locksmith will be able to cut and program a new key for your car while you wait. But, they’ll require the year and make of your vehicle, as well as evidence that you own it (a copy of your registration or title should do it).
Before calling a locksmith’s number, though, make sure that you have checked every possible place where your keys may be. Examine the pockets on the pants, jackets and purses. Also check any other bags you might have used. You may also look for your keys in places where you would not normally look for them, like the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or under the couch. If you’ve tried all of this but are still struggling to locate your keys, it’s time to call someone.
A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot, for around $20. This is less expensive than the cost to have roadside assistance take your car to a dealer and purchase a replacement key.
Locksmiths are often able to program and cut new keys for cars that have more advanced features, such as transponder keys, smart keys, or switchblade keys. Some of these more complex keys require the VIN number of your vehicle, but locksmiths should be able to do it immediately.
Many locksmiths can also remove broken or bent keys that are usually the result of accidentally locking them inside your vehicle. It is recommended that you leave the removal of a broken key to a professional. Doing it yourself could cause more damage.
A locksmith can assist you replace lost car keys and also offer guidance on how to prevent future keys being misplaced or stolen. Preventive steps, like keeping a spare set of keys at home or in your wallet, can go a long way towards ensuring that you don’t lose your car keys again.