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How to Replace Lost Car Keys You're exhausted, so you change into your sweats and order a pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. However, you realize the keys to your car aren't to be found. Know your options before you get in a panic. There are many ways to replace lost car keys , but most of them require the dealership or a professional locksmith. Check the Locks on Your Car When you lose keys to your car, it's recommended to first check your vehicle. We often don't know where they are, especially when we're distracted or are in a hurry. Fortunately, finding lost car keys is relatively easy when you make the effort to conduct an exhaustive search in your vehicle. Start by sitting in the driver's seat. Move the seats forward and back as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your vehicle for your car keys. Also, look around zippered areas or small compartments to find keys. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag for keys. Many modern cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. They usually contain an internal chip that can communicate to the car in order to let you into the vehicle and then start the engine. If you've lost your car's keys fob, you'll have to visit a dealership to have a new one created. Some older vehicles still use traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose the keys, a locksmith could be able to make a replacement key for you if you've got evidence of ownership such as your registration or title. The dealer can also provide the replacement however, it will cost more. The dealership will have to integrate a computer chip into your car, which could be priced between $200 and $250, or more, based on the model and make of your car. Be sure to check your insurance policy before you purchase the new car key. If you have a comprehensive insurance policy, you may be able to claim it to cover the cost of a replacement key. Ask your insurance company whether they have roadside service coverage. This will be useful in the event that you need it. The good news is that there are now many companies offering roadside assistance packages, so you are likely to find a service close to you. Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (VIN) The number for identification of the vehicle is a unique 17-digit alpha-numeric code for each vehicle that is on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and keep track of inventory, report accidents and thefts, as well as more. 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, or sometimes in front of the motor block. Your VIN can be found in other places like your registration for your vehicle and title as well as insurance documents. It is important to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your car. If you lose your keys, you can quickly and easily get a new one that is based on the VIN. Locksmiths can decode the VIN and find the manufacturer's code for the model you have. This will work with your lock. The majority of passenger cars have their VIN on a sticker that's situated where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. You can also find it on the driver's side door jamb, or in front of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. In some instances, the VIN is even embedded on your windows or windshields as part of a security measure against theft. Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth analysis of your vehicle, including the model, manufacturer of the body, type of engine, size, assembly facility, and the year of its manufacturing. VINs first came into use in 1954, but until 1981, they were available in a variety. In that year the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current format of 17 characters. If your VIN is valid, then you'll be able to get new keys at most dealerships and locksmiths for automotive, based on the type of key your car requires. For instance, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip, you'll need to go to an authorized locksmith or dealer who can swap your key for one that will start your car. If not, you can buy standard keys at hardware stores. Contact Your Dealership A few years ago the loss of your car keys was not a huge deal. You could easily call your local dealer to get a new set. Today, it's more complex than it used to be. The dealership may not be the best option for replacing your car keys that have been lost. You can still get a traditional car key from the dealership, but it is better to contact an auto lock. They are more likely to be in a position to get you back on the road fast and probably cost less than the dealership would. Before you contact someone to replace your car keys, write down the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is crucial because it will be required to make a new replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN is located on the driver's side dashboard or printed inside of your owner's manual. Dealerships can replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. This is not a guarantee, however. It all depends on your model and make, as well as whether the keys are intelligent or have complex programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and request an expert in service if you are unsure if they can assist. If your smart key was stolen or lost it must be replaced at the dealership. This is because your car's security features require a specific kind of key to reset and work properly. This process is more complex than it used to, so make sure you're willing to pay a higher price to restore this feature. In the event that your original key is lost or damaged the dealership will be able to offer you a similar backup. If you decide to go this way ensure that you have all the information needed, including an ID photo. This will help everyone to get through the process. Call a Locksmith Contacting a locksmith is the first step to replace lost car keys. A locksmith with experience will be able to program and cut a new car key while you wait. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle, along with evidence of ownership (a copy of your registration or title). Be sure to check all possible locations for your keys prior to when you contact a locksmith. This includes checking the pockets of pants and jackets or purses, as well as any other bags you might have used. You could also search for your keys in places you might not normally go, such as the floor behind the doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried all of these methods and still are unable to find your keys, it's time to call someone. For keys that are traditional locksmiths should be able to replace keys on the spot for around $20. This is cheaper than the cost to have roadside assistance take your car to the dealer and purchase a replacement key. Locksmiths are often able to program and cut new keys for cars with more advanced features, such as smart keys, transponder keys, or switchblade keys. These more complex keys might require that you provide the VIN number of your car however, an experienced locksmith has the right tools to complete this in a flash for you. Many locksmiths can also remove broken or bent keys that are often caused by accidentally locking them inside your vehicle. If you attempt to remove a damaged key by yourself could cause more damage, and this task should be left to professionals. In addition to helping you replace keys that were lost in your car, a locksmith can offer advice on how to avoid keys from being lost or stolen. Preventive measures, such as keeping an extra set of keys at home or in your wallet, can make a huge difference in ensuring that you never lose your car keys again.