Replacing a Lost Car Key
In the past, losing keys to your car wasn't a big deal. Nowadays, it can be an absolute nightmare and cost you hundreds of dollars.
First make sure to remain calm and follow your steps. Examine all pockets and bags. Next, you can try contacting your car dealership or a locksmith.
VIN Number
Every car is assigned a unique VIN number which distinguishes it among other vehicles on the road. The VIN code is a 17-digit number that begins with a letter except for the letters O and Q. The VIN also includes the year and the location of the factory in which the car was made. The VIN is present in many places, like your driver's license or registration document. However, lost car key no spare can most easily be found on the front of the engine block of your vehicle or in the jamb on the driver's side of the door.
If you're able to find your VIN you can used to create a brand new key for your vehicle. This is usually handled by an automotive locksmith or the dealership for cars. This process can be covered by your insurer and is typically more affordable than purchasing from the manufacturer. This kind of key however, is not able to replace the remote fob, nor does it work with your ignition.
The VIN is an unique identifier for every vehicle, which means it can be used to trace the history of that vehicle and its owner. This information is essential in the event of a stolen or damaged vehicle. The VIN will help the police or insurance company find out who is the owner of the car and where it's located. The VIN can be used to identify the exact model of your car which is useful in determining the type of key you require to enter it.
Most people are able identify their car's VIN by looking at the corner of the dashboard when they are outside the vehicle. You can also locate it on the front of your car's engine, in the trunk or on the door jamb, or behind the container that contains windshield washer fluid. You can also find the VIN on your insurance papers or by visiting your dealer.
While you can order an alternative key from the manufacturer based on your VIN, this won't work with your remote fob, nor will it start your vehicle. The key will only unlock the trunk and doors but it will not start the car. In this instance it is recommended to contact an auto locksmith to create an entirely new key with your VIN code.
Vehicle Identification Number
You'll need to locate your vehicle identification number which is also referred to as the VIN. This 17-digit number contains all the information needed to identify your vehicle. This number can be found on an inscription on the driver's side dashboard or in the manual of your vehicle. The last eight digits are unique to the car you own. Note this number down to give it to the locksmith in case you require a new key.
Next, you will need to decide which type of key you require. There are three kinds of keys for cars - traditional keys made of steel, transponder keys and smart keys. Traditional metal keys are the most basic type and don't contain any electronics. They are used to open doors and also start the car's engine. Transponder keys have an electronic chip that communicates with your car's engine control unit to prevent theft. Smart keys however serve as a remote, and don't need turning your key to start the car.
You may be required to show proof of ownership based on the type of keys you own. Bring an ID card with a valid photo. You could also bring a copy of the registration or title for your car. If you don't own your vehicle you can still obtain an additional key.
A locksmith can design new keys without having the original. They will need the year, make and model of your vehicle, as well as the VIN number. Bring a spare key to make the process easier.
Keep a spare car key in a safe place so that you don't lose it. But if you do lose your car key, don't panic. Replacing a lost car keys isn't as difficult as people think. You can do it yourself or find an expert who can assist you. Remember to have the right identification as well as an acceptable payment method and a bit of patience.
Your Key Identification Number
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys to your car was not an problem. You could simply call your local hardware store and get a duplicate made, and it wouldn't cost much at all. However, as cars have become more and technologically advanced, they've also become costly to replace if lost or stolen.
This is because a car's keys fob has a transponder built into it, which makes it more difficult to duplicate and more difficult for thieves to take. Depending on the brand and model of your vehicle you may also need to prove ownership to obtain the new key.
Although a replacement key can be fairly simple to obtain provided you have the correct information to give, it is still important that you do your best not to lose your car keys in the first place. If you have difficulty keeping track of your car keys You might want to think about getting duplicates. Then, you can leave them in a safe location at home or with a trusted friend. This will save you a lot and money in the future should you happen to misplace one.
You should also keep track of your VIN number, which is usually located on the dashboard or plate of your car. This will assist you should you lose your keys. This will help you if you need to contact a locksmith, as they'll be able to use this number to verify ownership, and also ensure that no other person has access to your vehicle.
If you've lost your keys, retrace the steps you took and check areas you wouldn't normally think to look, such as the pockets of your shirt or jacket you were wearing at the time of last time you were carrying them. If this doesn't work, you may contact a locksmith who will make you new keys in accordance with the vehicle identification number.
If you're looking to purchase a new car key, ensure you inquire with the dealer or locksmith what your options are and what price they'll charge for a replacement key. Although it's more expensive to get a new car key created at the dealership, if you're not in rush, an automotive locksmith may be less expensive and faster.
Your Driver's License
You may not realize it that your driver's license is more than just an item of paper bearing your name and photo. It is filled with personal information. You must report any lost or stolen driver's license immediately.
New York requires a driver's license to legally drive. You can get your license back by following the steps. You'll need to provide proof of identity like valid driver's license or state-issued picture ID. You'll need documents for your vehicle, such as the current Vehicle Registration or Certificate of Automobile Insurance.
Requesting a Reset for the Lost Car Key
It can be expensive to replace an ignition key, depending on the type of key you have. The most affordable keys to replace are those that are not paired up with your ignition. However, if the car utilizes a transponder, or a chip key, it can be quite expensive.
Chip keys that are connected with the ignition of your car use the microchip that is embedded in them to communicate with the car's system. They are designed to prevent theft and require a specific programmed key for your car to start. If you lose your chip key, the only option is to go to the dealer and wait until the manufacturer or distributor provides one.
You can reset your keyfob in the event that the remote has stopped functioning while you wait for a new key. This is usually performed by following the directions in the owner's manual but it can be a bit tricky.
If you've tried to reset your key but you still can't find it, you need to contact a locksmith. They can use the VIN number to determine the correct key code and then create an appropriate new key for you. This way, you won't need to spend as much time and money to locate the key you have lost or visiting the dealer.