The Reasons To Work On This Replace Lost Car Keys
How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're exhausted and are ready to put on your favorite sweatshirt Grab a pizza and binge your latest TV show. You find that your car keys are missing.
Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are many ways to replace a lost car key however, the majority of these require a locksmith or dealer.
Check your car's locks
When you lose car keys, it's always best to start by checking your vehicle. In the end, we tend to forget where they're especially when we're rushing or distracted. Finding lost car keys can be fairly easy if your vehicle is thoroughly searched.
Start with the driver’s seat. Move the seats forward and back as well as up and down to check every inch of your car for the car key. Also, check the zippered areas or small compartments to locate keys. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag for keys.
A lot of modern cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. These devices typically contain an internal chip that communicates with the car to let you into the vehicle and start the motor. If you've lost your car's keys fob, you'll need visit the dealership to have a new one made.
Certain older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith might be able to make an alternative key for you if you have evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.
You can also purchase an upgrade at the dealership, however this will be much more expensive. The dealer must pair up the computer chip with your car. This could cost between $200 and $250 dependent on the car's make and model.
Be sure to check your insurance policy prior to deciding to purchase a new car key. If you have comprehensive coverage, you may be able to claim on it to pay for the cost of replacing a key. Check with your insurance provider if you have roadside service coverage. This will help should you ever require it. The good news is that there are many companies offering roadside assistance packages, so you should be able to find a service near you.
Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (VIN)
The number for identification of the vehicle is an alpha-numeric number that is unique to 17 numbers for each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles, monitor inventory, report crashes and thefts, and more. In the United States the VIN is usually stamped on a label or a plate that is attached to your dashboard, driver-side door jamb and sometimes even on the motor block. You can also find your VIN in other places, such as your registration for your vehicle as well as title and insurance documents.
It is essential to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your car. If you lose your keys, you can easily and quickly get a new key that is based on the VIN. A locksmith can decode the VIN and get the manufacturer's code for the model you have. This will work with your lock.
Most passenger cars have their VIN on a label that's placed at the point where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. It can also be found on the door jamb of the driver or in front the engine block of larger commercial and truck vehicles. Some VINs are permanently etched into the windshield or windows of your vehicle as a security measure.
Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with the complete information about your vehicle, including the manufacturer, model and make the body style, the engine size, assembly plant and the year of its production.
VINs first appeared in 1954, when VINs were first introduced. However, up to 1981, they were available in different configurations. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current one of 17 characters.
If your VIN number is valid, you can obtain new keys from many locksmiths, automotive or dealerships based on the type key your vehicle requires. For example, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip you'll need to go to an auto locksmith or dealer that will replace your key with one that will start your vehicle. You can also get standard keys at hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
Not long ago, losing your car keys was not a huge deal. You could simply call your local dealer to get a new set. Nowadays, it's much more complicated than it used to be. If you're looking to get your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always your best option.
While you can certainly still purchase a traditional key at the dealership, the best choice is to call an auto locksmith. They will be able get you back on the faster and for less than the dealership.
Before calling anyone to replace your lost car keys , write down the number for your vehicle identification (VIN). This is crucial 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 it could be printed in the owner's manual.
Dealerships are able to replace car keys for the majority of manufacturers. However, this doesn't assurance that they'll be able help you. It's contingent on the make and model of your car as well as whether keys are equipped with complicated programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and request the service manager if are unsure whether they can help.
If you have a smart key that's been lost or stolen, you'll have to visit your dealership in order to have it replaced. This is because the security features of your car require a specific type of key to reset and function properly.
This process is more complex than it was in the past, so make sure you're prepared to pay a higher price to restore this feature. A dealer can also give you another key that's identical to the original one in the event that your lost one was damaged or stolen. If you decide to go this route, be sure you have all the information needed with you along with an ID photo. This will help everyone to get through the process.
Call for a locksmith
The most crucial step to take in replacing lost car keys is to contact locksmith. A locksmith who has experience will be able program and cut a new car key while you are waiting. However, they'll need to know the year and make of your vehicle, as well as evidence that you own the car (a copy of your registration or title should suffice).
Make sure to look over every possible location for your keys before you contact a locksmith. Examine the pockets on pants, jackets and purses. Also, check any other bags that you may have used. You can also look for your keys in areas that you would not normally put them, like on the floor behind the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you've done this but are still unable to locate your keys, you should seek help.
For traditional keys locksmiths will be able to repair them on the spot for around $20. This is a lot less expensive than having roadside assistance take you car to a dealership to buy a new key.
More are often able to cut and program new keys for cars that have more advanced features, including smart keys, transponder keys or switchblade keys. Some of these more complex keys require the VIN number for your car, however locksmiths should be able to do it immediately.
Most locksmiths also have the capability of removing broken or bent keys which can happen when you accidentally lock them in your car. It is recommended that you leave the removal of a damaged key to a professional. Trying to do it yourself can cause further damage.
A locksmith can assist you replace lost car keys and also give tips on how to prevent future keys being misplaced or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home can aid you in never losing your car key ever again.