This Story Behind Replace Lost Car Keys Will Haunt You Forever

How to Replace lost key fob Car Keys

You're tired and ready to change into your favorite sweats, grab some pizza, and watch the latest TV show. You find that the keys to your car have disappeared.

Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are several ways to replace keys for cars that have been lost however the majority of them require a locksmith or dealership.

Check the locks on your car.

If you've lost your car keys, it's always recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. After all, we often forget where we put them particularly when we're in a hurry or distracted. Finding keys to your car may be fairly simple when your car is thoroughly searched.

Start by sitting in the driver's seat. Move the seats back and forwards as well as up and down to search every inch of your car for your car keys. Be sure to feel around zippered areas and small compartments for keys, too. Be sure to check your backpack, purse or tote bag with care for keys.

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

Some older vehicles still have traditional metal keys that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you have lost these keys, a locksmith may be able create a replacement key for you if you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.

You can also get a new replacement at the dealership, however it will be more expensive. The dealer will need to pair up the computer chip with your vehicle. It could cost between $200 and $250 dependent on the car's model and make.

Make sure you check your insurance policy prior to deciding to purchase a new car key. You could be able to claim your comprehensive insurance policy to pay for the cost of purchasing an additional car key. Check with your insurance provider whether they have roadside service coverage. This could help in the event that you need it. The good news is that there are now many companies offering roadside assistance packages, so you should be able to find a service close to you.

Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN)

The vehicle identification number is an alpha-numeric code with 17 digits for each vehicle that is on the road. It's used to identify vehicles, track inventory, report crashes and thefts, and much more. In the United States the VIN is usually stamped on a label or a plate that is attached to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb, or sometimes behind the motor block. Your VIN can be found in other places like your registration for your vehicle as well as title and insurance documents.

It's 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 that is based on the VIN. A locksmith can decode the VIN and get the manufacturer's code for your model. This will work with your lock.

The VIN is usually found on a label that is placed on the dashboard of the driver's side, where the windshield meets it. It can also be found on the driver-side door jamb or on the front of the engine block of larger trucks and commercial vehicles. In some instances it is possible that the VIN is even written into your windows or windshields to provide an security measure to prevent theft.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth look at your vehicle including the manufacturer, model body type, engine size, assembly facility and year of manufacturing.

VINs were first introduced in 1954, however, until 1981, they were offered in a variety. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current 17-character format.

If your VIN number is valid, you can obtain new keys from a variety of dealerships or locksmiths for automotive 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 can replace lost key for car your key with one that will start your car. If not, you can buy standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys weren't a big deal. You could easily call your local dealer to get a new set. It's a lot more difficult today. The dealership might not be the best place to go 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 contact an auto lock. They're more likely be in a position to get you back on the road in a hurry and probably cost less than the dealership would.

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

Dealerships can replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. This is not a guarantee, however. It's dependent on the make and model of your vehicle and whether or not the keys have complex programming. If you're unsure whether or your dealer can assist you, bring your vehicle into the store and speak with the service manager.

If your smart key has been lost keys to my car or stolen it must be replaced by a dealership. This is because your car's security features require a specific type of key to be reset and function correctly.

This process is much more complex than it used to be, so be sure that you're willing to pay the additional cost to restore this feature. A dealer can also provide you with a backup key that's similar to the one you have in case your lost one was damaged or stolen. If you opt to go this route, make sure you have all of the required information, including a photo ID. This will make the process more efficient for everyone involved.

Contact a locksmith

The most important step in replacing keys to your car that have been lost car key replacement is to contact an experienced locksmith. A locksmith who has experience will be able program and cut a new key for your car 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 call a locksmith's number, though, make sure that you've inspected all possible places where your keys may be. This includes checking pockets in jackets and pants or purses, as well as any other bags you may have used. You may also look for your keys in places that you would not normally look like the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or underneath the couch. If you have done this and still cannot find your keys, it's time to call for help.

A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot, for about $20. This is a lot less expensive than having roadside assistance transport you car to a dealership to buy a new key.

Locksmiths are often able to program and cut new keys for cars equipped with more advanced features, including smart keys, transponder keys or switchblade keys. Some of these more complex keys require you to provide the VIN number for your car, but locksmiths will be able to complete the task on the spot.

Locksmiths are also able to ability to remove broken keys that are bent or broken, which can occur when you lock them accidentally in your car. Trying to remove a broken key on your own could cause more damage, and this is something that should be left to experts.

A locksmith can assist you replace keys to your car that have been lost and give advice on how to avoid the possibility of keys being lost car key with no spare or stolen. Prevention measures like keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home can help you to never lose your car key once more.