The Next Big Trend In The Replace Lost Car Keys Industry

How to Replace Lost Car Keys

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

Before you panic, know your options. There are many ways to replace car keys that have been lost, but most of them require a dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check the Locks on Your Car

If you've lost your keys to your car, it's best to start by checking your vehicle. We often forget where they are, especially when we're distracted or are in a hurry. Finding keys lost in the car can be fairly simple if your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Begin by sitting in the driver's seat. The seats can be moved forward and backwards as well as up and down to check every inch of your vehicle for your car key. Be sure to feel around small compartments and zippered areas for the keys, too. Also, be sure to check your backpack, purse, or tote bag for the keys.

A majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car from a distance. They usually contain an internal chip that connects to the car in order to let you into the vehicle and to start the motor. You'll need to visit your dealer to purchase a new key fob if you've lost it.

Some older cars still have keys made of metal that fit in an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of these keys, it's possible that a locksmith will be able to create a new key for you as long as you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.

replacing lost car keys  may also offer an alternative however, it will cost more. The dealer must pair up the computer chip with your vehicle. This can cost between $200 and $250, depending on your car's model and make.

Be sure to check your insurance policy before you purchase a new car key. If you have comprehensive coverage you may be able to claim it to cover the cost of a replacement key. Additionally, it's important to inquire with your car insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance insurance that can aid you in the case of an emergency. There are a variety of companies that provide roadside assistance packages. You should be able to find one near 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's used to identify vehicles as well as keep track of inventory, report accidents and thefts, as well as more. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into a label or plate on the dashboard of your vehicle or jambs on the door of the driver's side, and sometimes, in front of the engine block. You can also find your VIN in other places, such as your registration for your vehicle title, insurance and title documents.

It's important to keep your VIN secure because it's unique to you and your vehicle. This way, should you ever lose your keys, you'll be in a position to use it to get the replacement key made quickly and easily. A locksmith can decode your VIN to find the key code of the manufacturer for your particular model, which will then work with your lock.

The VIN is typically located on a label on the dashboard of the driver in the area where the windshield meets it. You can also find it on the driver-side door jamb or on the front of the engine block of larger commercial and truck vehicles. In some cases there are instances where the VIN is even etched into your windshield or windows as part of a anti-theft measure.

You can verify your VIN by entering it into a web-based VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth report on your vehicle including the model, manufacturer body type, engine size, assembly facility and the year of its production.

VINs were first used in 1954, but up to 1981, they were offered in a variety. In that year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current 17-character format.

If your VIN is correct, then you will be able to get new keys at most dealerships and locksmiths for automotive, based on the type of key your car requires. If your car has an ignition chip you will require an authorized locksmith or dealer to replace your key. You can also purchase basic keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys was not an issue. You could simply contact your local dealership to have a new set of keys made. It's a lot more complicated today. If you're in the market to have your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always the best option.

Although you could obtain a traditional key from the dealership, the best option is to contact an automotive locksmith. They're more likely be able to get you back on the road fast and probably cost less than the dealership.

Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you contact someone to replace your lost keys. This is crucial because someone will need it to create the replacement car keys for you. The VIN can be found on the dashboard of the driver's side, or it may be found in your owner's manual.

Dealerships are able replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. However, it's not a assurance that they'll be able help you. It's dependent on the make and model of your vehicle as well as whether keys have complicated programming. Bring your car to the dealership and ask for a service manager if you are unsure whether they can help.

If your smart key was stolen or lost it must be replaced at the dealership. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a specific kind of key to be reset and function properly.

This process is more complex than it used to be, so be sure that you're willing to pay the additional price to restore this feature. In the event that your original key is stolen or damaged the dealership will be able to provide you with a duplicate backup. If you decide to do this, make sure you have all of the necessary information including an ID photo. This will make it easier for all to complete the process.

Call for a locksmith

Calling a locksmith is the first step in replacing lost keys to your car. A locksmith who has expertise will be able to program and cut a new car key while you are waiting. But, they'll need to know the year, make and model of your vehicle, as well as evidence that you own it (a copy of your registration or title should suffice).

Before you get a locksmith on the phone However, you must ensure that you have checked every possible place where your keys could be. This includes checking the pockets of jackets and pants, purses and any other bags you may have used. You could also search for your keys in places you might not normally go for them, like the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or underneath the couch. If you've tried all of this but are still unable to find your keys, it's time to call someone.

A locksmith should be able to replace traditional keys on the spot at a cost of around $20. This is less than the price you'd pay for roadside assistance to tow your vehicle to the dealer and purchase a replacement key.

Locksmiths can often cut and program new keys for cars equipped with more advanced features, including transponder keys, smart keys, or switchblade keys. These more complex keys may require that you provide the car's VIN number however an experienced locksmith will have the tools to do this on the spot for you.

Many locksmiths can also remove bent or broken keys that are often caused by accidentally locking them inside your vehicle. It is recommended to leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. If you attempt to do it yourself could cause more damage.

In addition to helping you replace your keys to your car that have been lost, a locksmith can provide advice on how to stop future keys from getting misplaced or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home could help you to never lose your car key once more.