Ten Common Misconceptions About Replace Lost Car Keys That Don't Always Hold

How to Replace  replace lost key for car  exhausted, so you put on your favorite sweats and grab some pizza to watch your favorite TV show. You realize that your car keys are missing.

Before you panic, consider your options. There are a few different ways to replace lost car keys, but most of them require the dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check your car's locks

If you've lost your keys to your car, it's recommended to first check your vehicle.  replace lost key for car  forget where they're particularly when we're in a rush or distracted. Finding keys to your car may be fairly simple in the event that your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. The seats can be moved forward and backwards as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your vehicle for your car key. Be sure to look around compartments with zippers and small spaces for keys, too. Also, you should carefully search your purse, backpack, or tote bag for keys.

Many modern cars come with key fobs that let you to lock and unlock your car remotely. They usually have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car in order to let you in and start the engine. You'll have to visit your dealer to get the new key fob in case you've lost it.

Certain older cars still have traditional keys made of metal that fit in an ignition cylinder. If you lose the keys, a locksmith may be able to create an alternative key for you if you have proof of ownership like your registration or title.

You can also purchase an entirely new replacement at the dealership, however this will be much more expensive. The dealer must connect an electronic chip to your vehicle. This could cost between $200 and $250 depending on the make and model.

Be sure to check your insurance policy prior to deciding to purchase the new car key. If you have comprehensive coverage, you may be able to claim it to pay for the cost of a replacement key. It's also worthwhile to ask your insurance provider if you have roadside assistance insurance that can help you in the event of an emergency. There are many companies that offer roadside assistance plans. You should be able find one in your area.

Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (VIN)

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles as well as monitor inventory, report crashes and thefts, as well as more. In the United States the VIN is typically a sticker or plate that's attached to your dashboard, driver-side door jamb, and sometimes behind the motor block. Your VIN can be found in different places like your registration for your vehicle as well as title and insurance documents.

It's important to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your car. If you lose your keys you can easily and quickly get new keys made using the VIN. Locksmiths can decode your VIN to locate the key code from the manufacturer for your specific model, which will then work with your lock.

The VIN is usually located on a label on the dashboard of the driver's side, where the windshield meets it. You can also find it on the door jamb on the driver's side or on the front of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. In some instances it is possible that the VIN is even written into your windshield or windows to provide an security measure against theft.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an entire report on your vehicle, including manufacturer, make and model, body style, engine size as well as the assembly plant year of its production.

VINs first came into use in 1954. However, up to 1981, they were offered in different configurations. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current one of 17 characters.

If your VIN is correct, then you will be able to purchase new keys at most dealerships as well as automotive locksmiths, depending on the type of key your car requires. For instance, if you vehicle requires an ignition chip, you'll need to go to an auto locksmith or dealer that can replace your key with one that will be able to start your vehicle. You can also purchase standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could easily call your local dealer to purchase a new set. Today, it's a lot more complex than it used to be. The dealership might not be the best place to go for replacing the keys to your car that you lost.

While you may obtain a traditional key from the dealership, the best option is to call an auto locksmith. They will be able get you back on the way faster and charge less than the dealership.

Before you contact someone to replace your lost car keys, make a note of the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). This is crucial because the person who needs it will create an alternative car key for you. The VIN is located on the driver's dashboard, or it may be included in your owner's manual.

Dealerships are able to replace keys for a majority of car manufacturers. This is not a assurance, however. It's dependent on the make and model of your car as well as whether keys have complicated programming. If you're unsure whether or your dealer can assist you, bring your vehicle in and ask to speak with the service manager.

If your smart key has been stolen or lost the key will need to be replaced by a dealership. This is because your car's security features require a specific kind of key to be reset and function correctly.

This process is more complex than it was in the past, so make sure you're willing to pay a higher cost to restore this feature. A dealer will also be able to provide you with a backup key that's similar to the one you have in case your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you decide to go this route, make sure to carry all the required information with you, as well as a photo ID. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.

Call a locksmith

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

Before calling a locksmith's number however, ensure that you've inspected every possible place where your keys may be. This includes checking pockets of jackets and pants, purses and any other bags you may have used. You can also look for your keys in areas that you would not normally put 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 not able to locate your keys, then it's time for you to contact someone.

For traditional keys locksmiths will be able to repair them on the spot for about $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance tow you car to a dealership to purchase a new key.

In many cases, a locksmith can also cut and program the new key for more advanced types of automobiles, such as smart keys, switchblade keys, transponder keys, and switchblade keys. Some of these more complex keys require the VIN number of your vehicle, but locksmiths should be able to cut and program the key in a flash.

Many locksmiths can also remove broken or bent keys that are usually the result of accidentally locking them in your vehicle. It is recommended that you leave the removal of a damaged 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 locksmiths can also provide advice on how to prevent future keys from being lost or stolen. The best preventative measures include keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home will help you to never lose your car key ever again.