The Next Big Thing In The Replace Lost Car Keys Industry

How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired and ready to change into your favorite sweats take a bite of pizza and watch your favorite TV show. You discover that the keys to your car have disappeared.

Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are many methods to replace lost car keys, but most of them require the dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check your car's locks

When you lose car keys, it's always recommended to first check your vehicle. In the end, we tend to forget where we've put them especially when we're rushing or distracted. Finding keys lost in the car can be fairly simple in the event that your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. Make sure to inspect every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats upwards and downwards, back and forward. Make sure you check zippered areas and small compartments for the keys, too. Examine your backpack, purse or tote bag for keys.

Many modern vehicles come with key fobs that allow 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. If you've lost your car's key fob, you'll need visit a dealership to have an alternative one created.

Some older vehicles still use traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith might be able to create an alternative key for you, if you have evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.

You can also purchase a new replacement from a dealer, but this will be much more expensive. The dealership must integrate a computer chip into your vehicle, which could cost between $200 and $250 or more, depending on the make and model of your car.

Be lost keys to my car to check your insurance policy prior to purchase the new car key. If you have coverage that is comprehensive you may be able to claim on it to cover the cost of a new key. Check with your insurance provider whether they have roadside service coverage. This will help in the event that you need it. The good news is that there are numerous companies that offer roadside assistance and you will be able to locate services close to you.

Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN)

The vehicle identification number is a unique 17-digit alpha-numeric code for every vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles, keep track of inventory, report accidents and thefts, and more. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into the form of a plate or label on the dashboard of your vehicle or jambs on the door of the driver's side, and sometimes in front of the engine block. Your VIN can be found in different places such as your vehicle registration as well as title and insurance documents.

It's important to keep your VIN secure because it's unique to you and your car. If you lose your keys you can easily and quickly get a new one made using the VIN. Locksmiths can decode the VIN and get the manufacturer's code for your model. This will work with your lock.

The majority of passenger vehicles have their VIN on a sticker that's placed where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. It can also be found on the driver-side door jamb or on the side of the engine block of larger trucks and commercial vehicles. Some VINs are etched directly into the windshield or windows of your vehicle as a theft security measure.

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

VINs first appeared in 1954, when VINs were first introduced. However, until 1981, they were available in different configurations. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current 17-character format.

If your VIN number is correct, you can get new keys from most dealerships or automotive locksmiths depending on the type of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip, you'll need to visit a dealer or locksmith that can replace your key with one that can start your vehicle. You can also purchase basic keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

Not long ago, losing your car keys was not an issue. You could simply call your local dealership to have new keys made. Today, it's a lot more complex than that. If you're in the market to have your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always the most ideal option.

You can still get a traditional car key from the dealership, but it is better to contact an automotive lock. They will be able to get you back on your quicker and at a lower cost than a dealership.

Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you call someone to replace your keys. This is important because the person who needs it will create a replacement car key for you. The VIN is on the dashboard of your car or it could be printed in the owner's manual.

Dealerships are able replace car keys for the majority of manufacturers. This is not a guarantee, however. It is all dependent on the model and make, as well as whether the keys are intelligent or have complicated programming. Bring your car to the dealership and request the service manager if are unsure whether they can help.

If your smart key was lost or stolen the key will need to be replaced at the dealership. This is because your car's security functions require a particular type of key to reset and function properly.

This process is more complex than it used to be so make sure you're willing to pay the additional price to have this feature restored. In the event that your original key is damaged or stolen, a dealership can provide you with a duplicate backup. If you choose to go this route, make sure you have all of the required information, including an identification photo. This will make the process more efficient for everyone involved.

Call an expert locksmith

A locksmith's call is the first step in replacing keys for your car that have been lost. A locksmith with experience will be able program and cut a new key for your car while you are waiting. They will need the year model, make, and year of your vehicle, along with proof of ownership (a copy of your registration or title).

Before calling a locksmith's number however, ensure that you have checked all possible places where your keys might be. Check pockets on pants, jackets and purses. Also, look through any other bags you may have used. You may also search for your keys in areas that you wouldn't normally place them, such as on the floor in front of the doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried all of this but are still struggling to locate your keys, it's time to call someone.

A locksmith should be able to replace traditional keys on the spot, for about $20. This is less than the cost to have roadside assistance tow your car to a dealership and buy a replacement key.

In many instances, a locksmith can also cut and program a new key for more advanced models of automobiles, such as smart keys, switchblade keys transponder keys, and switchblade keys. Some of these more complicated keys require the VIN number of your car, however a locksmith is likely to be able complete the task in a flash.

Locksmiths are also able to ability to remove broken or bent keys that can occur if you accidentally lock them in your car. The attempt to remove a broken key on your own could cause more damage, and this task should be left to the experts.

A locksmith can help you replace lost car keys and also offer guidance on how to prevent future keys being misplaced or stolen. Preventive measures, such as keeping a spare set of keys at home or in your wallet can help in ensuring that you don't lose your car keys ever again.