How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired, so change into your sweats and grab a slice of pizza to watch your favorite TV show. You find that the keys to your car have disappeared.
Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are a variety of ways to replace a lost car key however, the majority of they require a locksmith or dealership.
Check the locks on your car.
When you lose keys to your car, it's recommended to first check your vehicle. We often don't know the location of our keys, especially when we're busy or distracted. Fortunately, finding lost car keys is relatively easy when you take the time to conduct a thorough search of your vehicle.
Start with the driver’s seat. Move the seats forward and back as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your vehicle for your car keys. Be sure to look around compartments with zippers and small spaces for keys, too. Also, be sure to check your backpack, purse, or tote bag, for keys.
Many modern vehicles come with key fobs that let 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 key fob, you'll need go to the dealership to get a new one made.
Some older cars still use traditional metal keys that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of these keys, it's likely that a locksmith will be able to create a new key for you as long as you have evidence of ownership, like your registration or title.
You can also get an entirely new replacement at the dealership, however this will be more expensive. The dealer must connect the computer chip with your car. It could cost between $200 and $250, dependent on the car's model and make.
Make sure you check your insurance policy prior to purchase the new car key. You might be able to claim on your comprehensive insurance policy to pay for the cost of purchasing a new car key. Check with your insurance provider if you have roadside service coverage. This will be useful in the event that you need it. There are numerous companies that provide roadside assistance packages. You should be able find one in your area.
Check your vehicle's identification (VIN).
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit alpha and numeric code that is unique to every vehicle 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 usually stamped on a label or a plate that's affixed to your dashboard, driver-side door jamb and sometimes even in front of the motor block. Your VIN can be found in other places like your vehicle registration and title as well as insurance documents.
It is important to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your car. If you lose your keys you can easily and quickly get a new one made using the VIN. Locksmiths can decode your VIN and find the key code of the manufacturer for your particular model that will then work with your lock.
The VIN is usually found on a sticker on the dashboard of the driver's side at the point where the windshield joins it. You can also look for it on the door jamb on the driver's side or on the front of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. Some VINs are permanently etched into the windshield or windows of your vehicle as a theft security measure.
Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an entire report on your vehicle, including the manufacturer, make and model body style, engine size as well as the assembly plant year it was manufactured.
VINs were first introduced in 1954, but until 1981, they were available in a variety. In the year 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current format of 17 characters.
If your VIN number is valid, you can obtain new keys from many dealerships or automotive locksmiths depending on the type key your vehicle requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip you will need to visit a locksmith or dealer to replace your key. You can also find basic 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 and request a new set. Today, it's more complicated than it used to be. The dealership may not be the best option if you need to replace the keys to your car that you lost.
You can still purchase a traditional car key from a dealership but it is best to call an automotive lock. They're more likely to be in a position to get you back on the road quickly and likely to charge less than the dealership would.
Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you contact someone to replace your lost keys. This is crucial because it will be needed in order for someone to create a replacement car key for your car. The VIN is located on the driver's dashboard or included in the owner's manual.
Dealerships can replace car keys for the majority of manufacturers. However, it's not a guarantee that they'll be able help you. It depends on the model and make of your vehicle, as well as whether keys are equipped with complex programming. Bring your car to the dealership and request the service manager if are unsure if they can assist.
If your smart key has been stolen or lost the key will need to be replaced by a dealership. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a specific kind of key to function correctly and reset.
This process is more complicated than it was previously, so make sure you're willing to pay a higher cost to restore this feature. Dealers 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 go this route, be sure you have all the required information with you and 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 keys is to call locksmith. A locksmith with experience will be able to program and cut a new key for your car while you wait. However, they will need to know the year and make of your car along with evidence that you own it (a copy of your registration or title should suffice).
Before you call a locksmith on the phone However, you must ensure that you've inspected every possible spot where your keys could be. This includes checking pockets of jackets and pants or purses, as well as any other bags you may have used. www.g28carkeys.co.uk may also search for your keys in areas where you don't usually put them, such as on the floor under a doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried all of this and are still unable to find your keys, it's time for you to call someone.
A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot for around $20. This is less expensive than what you would pay to have roadside assistance take your vehicle to the dealership and purchase a new key.
Locksmiths are often able to program and cut new keys for cars equipped with more advanced features, including transponder keys, smart keys, or switchblade keys. These keys that are more complicated may require you to provide the VIN number of your car, but professional locksmiths should have the right tools to cut and program the key right on the spot for you.
Many locksmiths can also take out broken or bent keys that are usually caused by locking them in your vehicle. It is recommended to leave the removal of a broken key to a professional. Trying to do it yourself could cause more damage.
A locksmith can help you replace keys that are lost in your car and offer advice on how to avoid future keys from being lost or stolen. Prevention measures like keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home could assist you in avoiding losing your car keys again.