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How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired and ready to put on your favorite sweatshirt, grab some pizza, and watch your favorite TV show. You discover that your car keys have disappeared.
Before you panic, know your options. There are many methods to replace lost car keys but the majority require a dealership or a professional locksmith.
Check the locks on your car.
When you lose car keys, it's always recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. We often don't know the location of our keys, especially if we're distracted or are in a hurry. Fortunately the search for lost car keys is relatively easy if you take the time to conduct an exhaustive search of your vehicle.
Start with the driver's seat. Check every inch of the car by moving the seats upwards and downwards, back and forth. Also, feel around zippered areas or small compartments to find the keys. You should also carefully check your purse, backpack, or tote bag for keys.
Many modern cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from the distance. These devices typically have an internal chip that can communicate with the car to allow you access to the vehicle and to start the engine. You'll need to go to your dealer to purchase a new key fob if you've lost it.
Certain older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose the keys, a locksmith might be able to make an alternative key for you, if you have proof of ownership like your registration or title.
The dealer can also provide a replacement however, it will cost more. The dealership will have to integrate a computer chip into your vehicle, which could cost between $200 and $250 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
Be sure to check your insurance policy prior to deciding to purchase the new car key. If you have a comprehensive insurance policy you may be able to claim on it to cover the cost of replacing a key. Additionally, lost keys car to inquire with your car insurance provider if you have roadside assistance coverage to aid you in the case of an emergency. There are numerous companies that provide roadside assistance plans. You should be able to find one near you.
Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN)
The vehicle identification number is an alpha-numeric code with 17 digits for each vehicle that is on the road. It's used to identify vehicles as well as track inventory. It is also used to report accidents and thefts. In the United States the VIN is typically stamped on a label or a plate that's affixed to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb, or sometimes behind the motor block. Your VIN can be found in different places such as your vehicle registration, title, and insurance documents.
Your VIN is unique to your vehicle and it's a good idea to keep it safe. If you lose your keys, you can easily and quickly obtain a new one that is based on the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN to retrieve the manufacturer's key code for your particular model that will then work with your lock.
The VIN is typically located on a label that is placed on the dashboard of the driver's side, where the windshield meets it. It can also be found on the door jamb for the driver or in front the engine block of larger trucks and commercial vehicles. In some cases there are instances where the VIN is even written into your windshield or windows as part of a security measure against theft.
Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you a complete report on your vehicle, which includes the manufacturer, make and model, body style, engine size assembly plant, and the year of its production.
VINs were first used in 1954, but up to 1981, they came in a variety of formats. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current format of 17 characters.
If your VIN is valid, then you'll be able to purchase new keys at most dealerships as well as locksmiths for automotive, based on the type of key your car requires. For instance, if you car requires an ignition chip you'll have to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer who will replace your key with one that will be able to start your vehicle. If not, you can buy standard keys at hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
A few years ago, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could easily contact your local dealer and request a new set. Today, it's more complicated than it used to be. If you're in the market to have your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always your best option.
You can still purchase a traditional car key from the dealership, but it is better to contact an automotive lock. They will be able get you back on your faster and for less than a dealership.
Before you contact someone to replace your car keys, make a note of the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). This is crucial because the person who needs it will create a replacement car key for you. The VIN is located on the driver's dashboard, or it may be found in the owner's manual.
Dealerships can repair keys for a majority of car manufacturers. This isn't a guarantee however. It's contingent on the make and model of your vehicle as well as whether or not the keys have complicated programming. If you're unsure whether or not your dealership can help you, bring your vehicle to the dealership and request a chat with the service manager.
If you have a smart key that's been lost or stolen, you'll have to visit your dealer to get it replaced. This is because your car's security functions require a specific kind of key to reset and work correctly.
This process is much more complex than it was in the past so make sure you're willing to pay the additional cost to have this feature restored. A dealership will also be able to provide you with a backup key that's similar to the original in case your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you choose to go this way ensure you have all of the required information, including a photo ID. This will facilitate the process for everyone involved.
Contact for a locksmith
Calling a locksmith is the first step in replacing keys for your car that have been lost. A locksmith who has experience will be able to program and cut a new car key while you are waiting. However, they will need to know the year model, make and model of your car along with proof that you own it (a copy of your registration or title should suffice).
Make sure you check every possible location for your keys prior to you call a locksmith. Check pockets on the pants, jackets and purses. Also, check any other bags you might have used. You can also search for your keys in places you would not normally look, such as the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or underneath the couch. If you've tried all of these methods and still are not able to locate your keys, then it's time to contact someone.
For traditional keys, a locksmith is likely to be able replace them on the spot for around $20. This is cheaper than what you would pay to have roadside assistance tow your vehicle to the dealer and purchase a replacement key.
Locksmiths can often program and cut new keys for cars with more advanced features, including transponder keys, smart keys or switchblade keys. Some of these more complex keys require you to provide the VIN number of your vehicle, but a locksmith should be able to complete the task immediately.
The majority of locksmiths also have the ability to remove damaged or bent keys that can occur if you lock them accidentally in your car. It is recommended to leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. If you attempt to do it yourself could cause more damage.
A locksmith can help replace keys that are lost in your car and offer guidance on how to prevent the possibility of keys being lost or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home will help you to never lose your car key again.
Website: https://vedel-tillman-4.technetbloggers.de/its-history-of-lost-auto-key-replacement
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