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10 Life Lessons We Can Learn From Replace Lost Car Keys
How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted, so you change into your sweats and order a pizza to watch your latest TV show. You realize that your car keys have disappeared.

Be aware of your options before you panic. There are several methods to replace lost car keys however, the majority of them require a dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check Your Car's Locks

It's best to check your car first when you lose your keys. We often forget where they are, especially if we're distracted or are in a hurry. Fortunately the search for lost car keys isn't difficult when you make the effort to conduct an exhaustive search in your vehicle.

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. Make sure you check compartments with zippers and small spaces for the keys, too. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag for keys.


A majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car from an extended distance. They usually have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to allow you in and start the engine. If lost keys to car no spare 've lost your car's keys fob, you'll need to go to the dealership to get a new one created.

Some older vehicles still have traditional keys made of metal that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you have lost one of these keys, it's likely that locksmiths are able to create a new key for you as provided you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title.

The dealer may also offer the replacement however it will cost more. The dealer will need to connect an electronic chip to your car. This can cost between $200 and $250 dependent on the car's make and model.

Before you purchase the replacement of your car key make sure you check your insurance policy. If you have comprehensive coverage, 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 in the event that you need it. The good news is that there are now numerous companies that offer roadside assistance which means you are likely to find a service near you.

Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (VIN)

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit alpha and numeric code that's unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles, track inventory, report crashes and thefts, and more. In the United States the VIN is typically stamped on a label or plate that's attached to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb and sometimes even on the motor block. You may also find your VIN in other places, including your registration for your vehicle title, insurance and title documents.

It's important to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your vehicle. In the event that you should ever lose your keys, you can use it to get a replacement key made quickly and quickly. Locksmiths can decode the VIN and get the manufacturer's codes for your particular model. This will work with your lock.

The VIN is usually found on a label that is placed on the driver's-side dashboard, where the windshield meets 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. Certain VINs are etched directly into the windows or windshields of your vehicle as a theft prevention measure.

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

VINs were first used in 1954, however, until 1981, they were available in a variety of formats. In the year 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 the majority of dealerships and locksmiths for automotive, based on the kind of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip you'll need to go to an auto locksmith or dealer that can swap your key for one that will start your car. You can also get standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't that 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 more complicated today. If you're in the market to get your car keys replaced, the dealership isn't always the best option.

While you may purchase a traditional key at the dealership, your best bet is to call an auto locksmith. They're more likely to be capable of getting you back on the road in a hurry and likely to charge less than the dealership would.

Before you call someone to replace your car keys, note down the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is important because the person who needs it will create the replacement car keys for you. The VIN can be found on the driver's side dashboard or included 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 assist you. It is all dependent on the make and model, and whether the keys are smart or have complex programming. If you're not sure whether or your dealer can assist you, bring your car 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 dealer for it to be replaced. 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 prepared to pay a greater cost to restore this feature. If your original key is damaged or stolen A dealership could offer you a similar backup. If you decide to take this route, make sure to carry all the necessary information on hand, as well as an ID photo. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.

Call a locksmith

A locksmith's call is the first step in replacing lost car keys. A locksmith with experience will be able program and cut a new car key while you wait. However, they'll need to know the year and make of your vehicle, as well as evidence that you own it (a copy of your registration or title should do it).

Be sure to check all possible locations for your keys before you call a locksmith. Check the pockets of the pants, jackets and purses. Also check any other bags you may have used. You could also search for your keys in places where you wouldn't normally look, such as the floor behind the table behind the doorway or underneath the couch. If you've tried all these methods and still are unable to find your keys, then it's time to call someone.

For traditional keys, a locksmith will be able to repair keys on the spot for about $20. This is less expensive than having roadside assistance take your car to a dealership to purchase a new one.

Locksmiths are often able to program and cut new keys for cars with more advanced features, including smart keys, transponder keys, or switchblade keys. These more complex keys might require that you provide the VIN number of the car however, an experienced locksmith has the right tools to complete this right on the spot for you.

Most locksmiths also have the ability to remove broken keys that are bent or broken, which can occur when you lock them accidentally in your car. It is recommended that you leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. Doing it yourself can cause further damage.

A locksmith can help replace keys to your car that have been lost and provide tips on how to prevent future keys from being lost or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home will help you to never lose your car keys once more.

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