How to Replace Lost Car Keys<br /><br />You're exhausted and want to put on your favorite sweats, grab some pizza, and watch your favorite TV show. However, you realize your car keys are nowhere to be found.<br /><br />Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are a variety of ways to replace the car key that was lost, but the majority of them require a locksmith or a dealership.<br /><br />Check the locks on your car.<br /><br />If you lose your car keys, it's always best to start by checking your vehicle. We often forget where they're, especially when we're in a rush or distracted. Finding lost car keys can be fairly easy if your vehicle is thoroughly searched.<br /><br /><br /><br />Start by sitting in the driver's seat. Move the seats forward and back as well as up and down to search every inch of your vehicle for your car keys. Make sure you check small compartments and zippered areas for the keys, too. Be sure to check your backpack, purse or tote bag with care for keys.<br /><br />A lot of modern cars have key fobs which allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. They usually include an internal chip that can communicate to the car to allow you into the vehicle and then start the motor. You'll need to go to your dealer to obtain an alternative key fob if you've lost it.<br /><br />Certain older cars still have traditional keys made of metal that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you have lost one of these keys, it's possible that locksmiths will be able to create a new key for you as long as you can provide evidence of ownership, like your registration or title.<br /><br />You can also purchase an entirely new replacement from the dealership, but this will be much more expensive. The dealership will need to pair a computer chip with your car, which can cost between $200 and $250 or more, depending on the model and make of your car.<br /><br />Make sure you check your insurance policy prior to purchase a new car key. If you have a comprehensive insurance policy you may be able to claim on it to cover the cost of a replacement key. Check with your insurance provider whether they have roadside service coverage. This can come in handy if you ever need it. The good news is that there are many companies offering roadside assistance plans, so you are likely to find a service close to you.<br /><br />Check your vehicle's identification (VIN).<br /><br />The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit numeric and alpha code that's unique to each vehicle on the road. It's 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 typically stamped into an image or a plate on the dashboard of your car and driver's side door jamb, and sometimes, in front of the engine block. You may also find your VIN in other places, like your registration for your vehicle, title and insurance documents.<br /><br />It is essential to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your vehicle. This way, should you should ever lose your keys, you'll be able to make use of it to get the replacement key made quickly and quickly. A locksmith can decode your VIN and get the manufacturer's code for your model. This will work with your lock.<br /><br />The majority of passenger cars have their VIN on a label placed between the windshield and the dash on the driver's side. You can also find it on the driver-side door jamb or on the side of the engine block of commercial and larger vehicles. In some cases, the VIN is even etched into your windshield or windows to provide an security measure against theft.<br /><br />Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth report on your vehicle, including the manufacturer, model, body type, engine size, assembly facility and year of production.<br /><br />VINs first came into use in 1954, but up to 1981, they came in a variety of formats. In <a href="https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/bishops-stortford-auto-locksmiths-near-me/">lost a car key how to replace</a> standardized VINs to the current format of 17 characters.<br /><br />If your VIN number is correct, you can purchase new keys from many dealerships or locksmiths for automotive based on the type of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip you'll need to visit an auto locksmith or dealer that can swap your key for one that can start your car. You can also purchase basic keys at hardware stores.<br /><br />Contact Your Dealership<br /><br />It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys weren't an issue. You could simply call your local dealer to get a new set. It's a lot more complicated today. The dealership may not be the best place to go if you need to replace the keys to your car that you lost.<br /><br />You can still purchase a traditional car key from the dealership, but it is better to contact an auto lock. They can get you back on your quicker and at a lower cost than the dealership.<br /><br />Before you call someone to replace your car keys, note down the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is important as you will need it to create an alternative car key for you. The VIN is on the dashboard of your car or could be printed in the owner's manual.<br /><br />Dealerships are able to replace car keys for the majority of manufacturers. This isn't a guarantee, however. It's contingent on the model and make of your car as well as whether keys have complicated programming. If you're not sure whether or the dealership you're dealing with can assist you, bring your vehicle in and ask to speak with the service manager.<br /><br />If your smart key has been lost or stolen it must be replaced at the dealership. This is because the security features of your car require a particular type of key to be reset and function correctly.<br /><br />This process is much more complicated than it used to be and you should make sure you're willing to pay the extra price to have this feature restored. If your original key is lost or damaged the dealership will be able to provide you with a duplicate backup. If you decide to go this route, make sure you have all the required information on hand and an ID photo. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.<br /><br />Call a locksmith<br /><br />Contacting a locksmith is the first step to replace lost keys to your car. A locksmith who has experience will be able program and cut a new key for your car while you wait. But, 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 suffice).<br /><br />Before you call a locksmith's number However, you must ensure that you've checked every possible place where your keys may be. This includes checking pockets in jackets and pants as well as purses and other bags you've used. You could also search for your keys in areas that you wouldn't normally place them, like on the floor in front of the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you have done this and still cannot find your keys, it's time to contact a professional for assistance.<br /><br />A locksmith should be able to replace traditional keys on the spot, for around $20. This is cheaper than the cost to have roadside assistance tow your car to a dealership and buy a replacement key.<br /><br />Locksmiths are often able to program and cut new keys for cars that have more advanced features, like transponder keys, smart keys, or switchblade keys. Some of these more complex keys require the VIN number for your vehicle, but a locksmith is likely to be able cut and program the key immediately.<br /><br />Many locksmiths are also able to remove broken or bent keys that are usually caused by locking them inside your vehicle. Trying to remove a broken key by yourself could cause more damage, and this is something that should be left to experts.<br /><br />A locksmith can help you replace keys that are lost in your car and provide advice on how to avoid future keys from being lost or stolen. Taking preventative measures, such as keeping a spare set keys at home or in your wallet, can make a huge difference in ensuring that you never lose your car keys ever again.<br /><br />