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How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted, so you change into your favorite sweats and grab some pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. But, you realize that your car keys aren't to be found.

Be aware of your options prior to panic. There are many methods to replace lost car keys but the majority involve the dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check the Locks on Your Car

If you lose your car keys, it's always recommended to first check your vehicle. We often don't know where they are, particularly when we're distracted or are in a hurry. Finding keys i lost my car keys what do i do in the car can be relatively easy in the event that your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Start with the driver’s seat. Check every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats upwards and downwards, back and forth. Be sure to feel around 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 that let 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 need to visit your dealer to obtain an alternative key fob if you've lost it.

Some older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of these keys, it's possible that locksmiths will be in a position to make a replacement key for you as long as you have evidence of ownership, like your registration or title.

The dealer may also offer the replacement, but it will cost more. The dealer will have to connect the computer chip with your car. This could cost between $200 and $250 depending on your car's model and make.

Make sure you check your insurance policy prior to purchase the new car key. If you have comprehensive coverage you might be able to claim it to pay for the cost of a new key. Ask your insurance company if you have roadside service coverage. This will come in handy in the event that you need it. There are a variety of companies that offer roadside assistance plans. You should be able to find one in your area.

Check your vehicle's identification (VIN).

The vehicle identification number is an alpha-numeric code with 17 digits for every vehicle that is on the road. It is used to identify vehicles as well as track inventory. It can also be used to report accidents and thefts. In the United States the VIN is usually stamped on a label or a plate that's affixed to your dashboard, driver's side door jamb, or sometimes on the motor block. You may also find your VIN in other places, such as your vehicle registration title, insurance and title documents.

Your VIN is unique to your vehicle, so it's recommended to store it somewhere safe. If you lose your keys, you can easily and quickly get new keys made using the VIN. Locksmiths can decode your VIN to retrieve the manufacturer's key code for your specific model that will then work with your lock.

The VIN is usually located on a label on the driver's-side dashboard in the area where the windshield meets it. You can also locate 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. In some cases it is possible that the VIN is even written into your windshield or windows as part of a security measure to prevent theft.

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

VINs first came into use in 1954, when VINs were first introduced. However, up to 1981 they were available in various configurations. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current one of 17 characters.

If your VIN is correct, then you will be able to obtain new keys at most dealerships as well as locksmiths for automobiles, based on the type of key your car requires. For example, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip, you'll have to visit a dealer or locksmith that can replace your key with one that will start your vehicle. You can also purchase basic keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys weren't an issue. You could contact your local dealership to have new keys made. Today, it's more complicated than it used to be. The dealership might not be the best option for replacing your car keys that have been lost.

You can still purchase a traditional car key from the dealership, but it is better to contact an auto lock. They're more likely to be in a position to get you back on the road fast and probably cost less than the dealership.

Before calling someone to replace your lost car keys, make a note of the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is important because it will be needed to make a new replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN is located on the dashboard of the driver's side, or it may be found in your owner's manual.

Dealerships can repair keys for the majority of automobile manufacturers. However, this isn't a assurance that they'll be able help you. It's contingent on the model and make of your car and whether keys have complicated programming. Bring your car to the dealership and ask for 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 your car's security functions require a specific kind of key to be reset and function properly.

This process is much more complicated than it was in the past so make sure you're willing to pay the additional cost to restore this feature. In the event that your original key is lost or damaged the dealership will be able to offer you a similar backup. If you choose to do this, make sure you have all of the information needed including an identification photo. This will make it easier for everyone to go through the process.

Call a locksmith

Calling a locksmith is the first step to replace keys for your car that have been lost key car. A skilled locksmith will be able cut and program an entirely new key for your car while you wait. But, they'll require the year and make of your vehicle, as well as proof that you own it (a copy of your registration or title should do it).

Make sure you check all possible locations for your keys prior to you call a locksmith. This includes checking pockets in pants and jackets as well as purses and other bags you may have used. You may also look for your keys in places where you might not normally go like the floor behind the doorway table or underneath the couch. If you've tried all these methods and still are not able to locate your keys, then it's time for you to contact someone.

For keys that are traditional locksmiths is likely to be able replace keys in a matter of $20. This is cheaper than the price you'd pay to have roadside assistance tow your vehicle to the dealership and purchase a new key.

Locksmiths are often able to program and cut new keys for cars with more advanced features, including smart keys, transponder keys, or switchblade keys. These more complex keys might require you to provide the VIN number of your car however, an experienced locksmith 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 often caused by accidentally locking them in your vehicle. Trying to remove a broken key by yourself could cause more damage, so this should be left to experts.

In addition to helping you replace keys to your car that have been lost key to car, a locksmith can give you advice about how to avoid keys from getting misplaced or stolen. Preventive measures, such as keeping a spare set keys at home or in your wallet can help in ensuring that you don't lose your car keys ever again.