How to Replace Lost Car Keys

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

Be aware of your options before you get in a panic. There are a variety of ways to replace the car key that was lost however the majority of these require a locksmith or a dealership.

Check the locks on your car.

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 in a hurry or distracted. Fortunately finding keys to your car is relatively easy if you make the effort to conduct an exhaustive search in your vehicle.

Start with the driver's seat. Check every inch of the car by moving the seats up and down, back and forward. Be sure to look around small compartments and zippered areas for the keys, too. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag carefully for keys.

A lot of modern cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. Usually, these devices have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to allow you in and start the engine. You'll have to visit your dealer to obtain a new key fob if you've lost it.

Some older cars still use traditional keys made of metal that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of these keys, it's likely that locksmiths will be capable of creating a new key for you as long as you can provide evidence of ownership, like your registration or title.

You can also purchase an entirely new replacement from the dealership, but this will be more expensive. The dealer will need to pair up an electronic chip to your car. This could cost between $200 and $250 depending on your car's make and model.

Before you purchase an auto key replacement be sure to check your insurance policy. You could be able to claim on your comprehensive insurance plan to cover the cost of buying a new car key. Check with your insurance provider whether you have roadside assistance coverage. This will help in the event that you need it. There are numerous companies that provide roadside assistance plans. You should be able to find one in your area.

Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (VIN)

The vehicle identification number is an alpha-numeric number that is unique to 17 numbers for each vehicle that is on the road. It is used to identify vehicles as well as track inventory. It can also be used to report thefts and crashes. In the United States the VIN is usually stamped on a label or plate that's attached to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb, and sometimes in front of the motor block. You can also find your VIN in other places, including your vehicle registration as well as title and insurance documents.

Your VIN is unique to your car It's recommended to store it in a safe place. If you lose your keys you can easily and quickly obtain a new key made using the VIN. A locksmith can decode the VIN and find the manufacturer's codes for your particular model. This will work with your lock.

The VIN is usually located on a sticker on the driver's-side dashboard at the point where the windshield joins it. You can also look for it on the door jamb on the driver's side or on the front of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. In some instances there are instances where the VIN is even written on your windows or windshields to provide an security measure to prevent theft.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you a complete report on your vehicle, which includes the manufacturer, model and make body style, engine size, assembly plant and the year it was made.

VINs first appeared in 1954. However, until 1981, they were available in various configurations. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current format of 17 characters.

If your VIN is correct, then you should be able to purchase new keys at most dealerships and automotive locksmiths, depending on the type of key your car 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 standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys weren't a big deal. You could simply call your local dealer to get a new set. It's a lot more complicated today. The dealership might not be the best place to go if you need to replace your lost car keys.

While you can certainly still purchase a traditional key at the dealership, the best choice is to contact an automotive locksmith. They can get you back on your way faster and charge less than the dealership.

Before you contact anyone to replace lost key for car (www.g28carkeys.co.uk) your car keys, write down the number for your vehicle identification (VIN). This is important as you will need it to create a replacement car key for you. The VIN is on the dashboard of your vehicle or it could be printed in your owner's manual.

Dealerships can replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. However, this isn't a guarantee that they'll be able to help you. It's dependent on the make and model of your vehicle as well as whether keys are equipped with complicated programming. If you're not sure whether or your dealer can assist you, bring your vehicle into the store and speak with the service manager.

If you have an electronic key that's been lost or stolen, you'll need to visit your dealership for it to be replaced. This is because your car's security functions require a specific type of key to reset and function correctly.

The process is more complicated than it was in the past, so make sure you're prepared to pay a greater price to restore this feature. A dealer will also be able to provide you with an alternative key that is similar to the original in case your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you decide to go this route, be sure you have all the information needed along with you along with a photo ID. This will make it easier for everyone to go through the process.

Call an expert locksmith

Contacting a locksmith is the first step in replacing lost keys to your car. A locksmith who has experience will be able to program and cut a new car key lost key while you wait. They will require the year, make, and model of your vehicle with proof of ownership (a copy your registration or title).

Make sure to look over every possible location for your keys prior to you call a locksmith. This includes checking the pockets of jackets and pants, purses and any other bags you've used. You can also search for your keys in places you wouldn't normally look for them, like the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or under the couch. If you've tried this but are still unable to locate your keys, it's time to contact a professional for assistance.

For traditional keys, a locksmith is likely to be able replace them on the spot for about $20. This is less expensive than having roadside assistance transport your vehicle to a dealer to buy a new key.

In many instances, locksmiths can also cut and program keys for more advanced types of cars, including smart keys, switchblade keys transponder keys, and switchblade keys. These keys that are more complicated may require you to provide the VIN number of your car however an experienced locksmith has the right tools to do this in a flash for you.

Most locksmiths also have the ability to remove damaged keys that are bent or broken that can occur if you accidentally lock them in your car. It is best to leave the removal of a damaged key to a professional. Trying 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 also offer advice on how to prevent future keys from getting misplaced or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home can assist you in avoiding losing your car key once more.