How to Replace Lost Car Keys

It's a nightmare to lose your car keys. It wasn't that long ago, it wasn't a big issue, but it's becoming more complicated as cars become technologically advanced.

Keys can be lost when you accidentally knock them off the table while reaching into your pockets to find something other. You can avoid this by keeping an extra key at home.

1. Call a Locksmith

There's no doubt that losing your car keys could be a major hassle. But, there's also no need to panic. If you know what to do and who to contact, getting your car keys replaced will be a matter of a few steps.

It is recommended to try retracing the steps you took. This may seem obvious but it's hard to do if you are stressed or concerned about losing your car keys. Make sure you check all your pockets, bags, and the area around your vehicle.

Call a locksmith if you cannot locate your car keys. Locksmiths can usually create keys for your vehicle much faster than a dealership. They can also do it for less than a dealership will charge.

Some dealerships can create replacement car keys as well, but they may not be able do it immediately or even at all. They usually have a large number of customers, therefore they might not be able accommodate your request right away. They might not be able to create a exact copy of the existing key.

Another option is to purchase a replacement car key online. The keys are available on Amazon and other websites for a much lower price than you would purchase from a dealer. However, they may not have the ability to cut and program these keys for your specific car model.

Some insurance policies also cover the cost of replacing a lost or stolen car key. It's worth checking your insurance policy to determine whether it will cover the cost of a replacement car key. Be aware that you'll need provide proof of ownership to the person or company who is responsible for creating your replacement key. This is required by the law. If you're not able prove ownership, it can be a very expensive experience.

2. Call the Dealership

It wasn't too long ago that losing keys to your car was not a big deal. It was not expensive to purchase an alternative key from a dealer. However, with cars getting more advanced in technology - and the keys getting more expensive to replace - this isn't as easy as it used to be. If you have lost your keys today, it's not uncommon to pay hundreds of dollars to have them replaced.

If you've lost your car keys first thing you need to do is be calm. This will allow you to think clearly and make a good decision. If you have lost your original keys you should keep a spare set of keys in your pocket or in your car trunk. This will ensure you're not in a financial bind. Make sure to check whether your insurance or warranty covers the cost of a replacement key. This can help you save money in the event of an emergency.

Next, search your vehicle, your home or your purse your wallet for keys that are missing. You can also retrace the steps you followed, and remember when you last had your keys and where you were at the time you lost them. This can help you figure out where they are which is a relief.

Once you've done an exhaustive search but can't find your car keys, the next option is to call your dealership. Dealerships are familiar with your particular vehicle, which is why they're the best place to go for a new key. They are often busy and cannot accommodate people who have a short notice. This could make the process difficult.

If you're able to contact your dealer they'll be able to create an original key for you based on the VIN number that is on file. They can also reprogram your immobilizer system which is required to start your car. Locksmiths are a great option if you want a quick and reliable solution that doesn't require you to wait in the dealership.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

Not too long ago, misplacing your car keys was not an issue. Locksmiths could come to your home and duplicate your keys at an affordable price. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced, the keys have also become more expensive.

Depending on your vehicle type and year replacing a lost or damaged key can be a lengthy procedure that could cost hundreds of dollars. That's why it's always recommended to keep an extra set of keys in hand, especially if you reside in a neighborhood that is dangerous or in a location where theft is commonplace.


While it might seem like an unnecessary effort to contact your insurance company, it will save you money in the long run. Contact your agent to determine whether you are able to get a replacement car key that is covered by your policy.

Another thing to consider is whether your policy includes roadside assistance. If you have roadside assistance, someone could come to your aid. This is a less stressful option than dealing with a dealership or locksmith.

Before calling your insurance company, make sure to search thoroughly for your keys. If you believe they're in the car, check inside the trunk and beneath the seat. If you're at home, look in the pockets of the clothes you were wearing as well as in other places where you may have a habit of putting them. Double-check any places you may have left them. For example, your purse or an unorganized office.

Contact your dealer to replace the keys after you've tried to locate them. Most of the time, this won't be a problem, and it will be much cheaper than hiring a locksmith, or going through an insurance company.

While you're at the dealership you may want to inquire whether you can have a spare key made, particularly if you don't have a key fob. Most of the time you can have your dealership make an extra key for you, without altering anything else in your vehicle. If you do this, make sure you keep the key in a safe and secure place to find it next time you lose it.

4. Call the Police

Notifying your car keys that you lost can help you find the keys and keep you safe. If someone steals your vehicle without permission, they may be subject to fines for driving it on public roads or on private property. If you report the keys missing prior to the person making off with your vehicle, you'll be aware that you have an official paper trace of when it went missing and who reported it.

Losing car keys is a common problem however it doesn't have to be to be a catastrophe. You can obtain a replacement car key quickly and easily if call the right people. You can also prevent the possibility of losing keys in the future by following the suggestions that are provided in this article.

First, try to retrace your steps. This will help you to remember where you might have lost your keys. For example, if you were driving home from work and then went to eat at the restaurant, you may be able to recall the keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If replace lost car key cannot find your keys, you may have left it in the bag that you used to carry around things or on the table you dined at.

Posting your key online is another good idea. This will increase the likelihood of finding the key by reaching a larger audience. You can also look up local businesses and bulletin boards for community groups.

Before you begin searching for your keys, be sure to write down the VIN number of your vehicle. This information is needed to replace your keys, so you should keep it secure. The VIN is usually found on your driver's license however, it can also be found on your insurance card and in the owner's manual of your vehicle.

Once you've exhausted all other options and have exhausted all other options, it's time to contact the police. You can obtain an interim replacement vehicle from the police department, and they will also file a report which is useful if your keys are ever recovered.