Replacing a Lost Car Key

It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys weren't a big deal. You could find a replacement key from any hardware store or, in certain cases, from your car dealership.

It's expensive to replace a car key. This article will guide you to the most effective solution for your particular key.

Copy the VIN.

The loss of your car keys is one of the most stressful events one can go through. It's even more difficult when it happens to you while you're on vacation or away from home. You can, however, replace the car key that was lost using the VIN number.

A locksmith or a car dealer can create a new key to match your VIN of the vehicle. This process may take time. You will also need to provide proof of ownership. This could be your vehicle registration or Replacing a lost Car key your car insurance paperwork. They won't be able to code a keys for your car until they have evidence that you own the vehicle.

The VIN can be located on the windshield, or on the driver's jamb on the door. It is also printed on a sticker in the driver's seat or on the dashboard. The VIN contains 17 characters and can be used to identify a vehicle. You can also locate the VIN on a paper or a certificate issued to you at the time you purchased your car.

Your car could have one, especially if it's one of the more recent models. It uses a transponder to start your car. This is not the mechanical key that was inserted into the ignition cylinder in older vehicles. A lost key won't start your car, however it might still open doors and trunk.

Contact your car dealer.

It's not uncommon for people to lose car keys. You may be able to get an alternate key from the dealership or a locksmith. However, which method you choose to use will depend on the type of key that your vehicle is using.

If you have a traditional double-edged car key, it is possible to visit your local hardware store and get a duplicate made for less than $10. You'll need to contact your dealer if you own a more recent model. They may require you to provide proof of ownership (registration or title) before they can create a new key for you. The dealer will also have to purchase the replacement key and program it into the immobilizer of your vehicle, which could take several days.

If you own a newer model with a transponder keys the procedure can be more complex. This kind of car key has microchips that communicate with the car's computer system to begin the engine. It is necessary to have your vehicle towed by a dealer in order to have the key created and then programmed into the system. The process can take days and you may have to pay for towing costs on top of that. Certain insurance policies cover these expenses.

Find a locksmith.

It wasn't too long ago that losing or, even worse, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You can always find a replacement lost car keys at the dealer. But as cars have become more technologically advanced and so have keys, and replacing them can now be a much more involved process that requires many steps and could cost you hundreds of dollars.

You can replace your fob or keys with a locksmith rather than the dealership, based on the kind. They're typically less expensive and also save you time. You can also look on the internet for aftermarket replacement keys / fobs. You can find them on sites like Amazon and could be less expensive than buying an original key from the dealership.

Try to remain calm and locate your car keys prior to calling locksmith. It is crucial to verify where you went the last time you were in your vehicle. Check your pockets, the bag or purse you were carrying as well as the places that aren't obvious, like the back of the headrest or in the trunk. If you're still not able to locate your car keys, consider retracing your steps. You might find your keys exactly where you left. But if that doesn't work, then you can always contact a locksmith to get help.

Contact your insurance company.

It can be a hassle to lose your car keys and it can be costly to replace keys. Some auto insurance companies offer reimbursement for lost keys. However the amount to which your policy covers it is contingent on the possibility that the key was lost key for car or stolen.

If you've lost car keys replacement a normal car key made of steel the procedure is simple. A locksmith can make an original key quickly and cheaply. If your car's key that was lost was a transponder keys or smart key, the situation is much more complex. These types of keys are a lot more difficult to replace and will require you to visit the dealer for them to be programmed into your vehicle's system. This can be expensive and you may have to tow your car to the dealer.

If your car keys have a transponder or smart key, you need to notify your insurance company right away. This will not only help prevent the theft of your vehicle, however, it will also stop someone from using the key to start your vehicle. If you report the loss promptly, your insurer will take steps to safeguard your car and its doors. If you don't have it thought about adding roadside assistance to your insurance policy to get assistance in the event of lost keys. This can be a huge help in these instances and is available through GEICO's Mobile App.