How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired, so change into your sweats and grab a slice of pizza to watch your latest TV show. You realize that your car keys have disappeared.

Know your options before you panic. There are several methods to replace lost keys to car no spare car keys but the majority require the dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check the locks on your car.

If you've lost your car keys, it's always best to start by checking your vehicle. We often forget where they are, especially if we're busy or distracted. Fortunately the search for lost car key lost no spare keys isn't difficult when you make the effort to conduct a thorough search of your vehicle.

Start with the driver’s seat. Move the seats forward and backwards as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your vehicle for your car key. Be sure to look around zippered areas and small compartments for keys, too. Also, be sure to check your purse, backpack, or tote bag for keys.

A majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from a distance. Usually, these devices have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car in order to let you in and start the engine. If you've lost your car's key fob, you'll need to go to the dealership to get an alternative one created.

Some older cars still use traditional keys made of metal that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you have lost these keys, a locksmith might be able to make keys for you if you've got evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.

The dealer is also able to provide an alternative however it will cost more. The dealer will need to pair up an electronic chip to your vehicle. It could cost between $200 and $250, depending on the model and make.

Make sure you check your insurance policy prior to deciding to purchase a new car key. If you have comprehensive coverage you may be able to claim it to pay for the cost of a replacement key. Check with your insurance provider whether you have roadside assistance coverage. This will come in handy if you ever need it. There are many companies that provide roadside assistance plans. 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 a unique 17-digit alpha-numeric code for every vehicle on the road. It is used to identify vehicles as well as track inventory. It can also be used to report crashes and thefts. In the United States the VIN is usually stamped on a label or plate that's attached to your dashboard, driver's side door jamb and sometimes even in front of the motor block. You may also find your VIN in other places, such as your registration for your vehicle, title and insurance documents.

It's important to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your vehicle. That way, if you lose your keys, you'll be in a position to use it to get an alternative key quickly and easily. Locksmiths can decode your VIN and locate the key code from the manufacturer for your specific model that will then work with your lock.

The majority of passenger cars have their VIN on a label located where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. You can also locate it on the door jamb for the driver or on the front of the engine block of commercial and larger vehicles. In some cases there are instances where the VIN is even etched into your windows or windshields as part of a anti-theft measure.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you the complete information about your vehicle, including the manufacturer, model and make body style, engine size assembly plant, and the year of its production.

VINs were first introduced in 1954, however, until 1981, they came in a variety of configurations. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current format of 17 characters.

If your VIN is correct, then you will be able to get new keys at most dealerships as well as automotive locksmiths, depending on the kind of key your vehicle requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip you will require a locksmith or dealer to replace your key. You can also find basic keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

A few years ago, losing your car keys was not a huge deal. You could simply call your local dealer to get a new set. It's more complicated today. The dealership might not be the best option in case you want to replace the keys to your car that you lost.

While you may obtain a traditional key from the dealership, your best bet is to call an auto locksmith. They can to get you back on your faster and for less than the dealership.

Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before calling someone to replace your lost keys. This is crucial because the person who needs it will create an alternative car key for you. The VIN is located on the driver's dashboard or found in the owner's manual.

Dealerships can replace lost car key cars keys for most manufacturers. However, this isn't a guarantee that they'll help you. It all depends on your model and make, and whether the keys are intelligent or have complex programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealer and ask for the service manager if aren't sure if they can assist.

If your smart key has been stolen or lost, it will need to be replaced by a dealership. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a specific type of key to be reset and function properly.

This process is more complicated than it used to be, so make sure you're prepared to pay a greater price to restore this feature. In the event that your original key is stolen or damaged A dealership could provide you with a duplicate backup. If you decide to do this ensure you have all of the required information, including an identification photo. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.

Call a locksmith

A locksmith's call is the first step in replacing lost keys to a car keys for your car that have been lost. An experienced locksmith will be able cut and program a new key for your car while you wait. However, they'll need to know the year, make and model 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 before you contact a locksmith. This includes checking pockets in jackets and pants as well as purses and other bags you might have used. You could also search for your keys in areas where you don't usually put them, like on the floor under the doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried all of these methods and still are struggling 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 a lot less expensive than having roadside assistance transport you car to a dealership to purchase a new key.

Locksmiths often cut and program new keys for cars with more advanced features, like transponder keys, smart keys, or switchblade keys. These more complex keys might require that you provide the VIN number of your car, but professional locksmiths has the right tools to cut and program the key on the spot for you.

Locksmiths are also able to ability to remove damaged keys that are bent or broken which can happen when you lock them accidentally in your car. The attempt to remove a broken key on your own can cause more damage, and this should be left to the professionals.

In addition to helping you replace your keys to your car that have been lost, a locksmith can also offer advice on how to prevent future keys from being lost or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home can aid you in never losing your car keys once more.