How to Make a Car Key When You Lost the Original

Few things are worse than missing car keys. First there's the inconvenience of not being able to use your car. Then you have to deal with an unplanned errand to get a new key made. Then there's the cost of a new key. It's expensive to have a locksmith create a new key using your car's ignition. It doesn't have to be that way. If you know where to look to find the numeric key code for your car, in most cases you can save yourself the cost of having a locksmith come to you.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. For older cars (before 1981). Check the inside cover of the owner's manual. The original owner may have written the key code there. The key code is also on the original sales invoice that came from the dealer who initially sold the car. A locksmith can make you a duplicate using this code. If you can't find paperwork containing the key code for an older car, you'll need a locksmith to make a new key from the ignition.

2. Use the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). The VIN is usually stamped on a metal plate on the driver's side of the car's dashboard. Take the VIN to a new car dealer and they will use information contained in the VIN to make you the correct key.

3. Remove the interior door panel and look for a code on the lock mechanism. The key code is stamped on the door lock. A locksmith will use this code to make you a duplicate key. Some car manufacturers use this method instead of encoding the VIN with key specs.

4. Remove the door lock. Usually the same key opens the door and the ignition. Remove the door lock and bring it to a locksmith. They will make a key to open the door lock, which will also work in the ignition.

Tips & Warnings

• If you know the previous owner, ask him if he has a key to the car. Many people keep a copy of the key to a car they've sold.
• Having a locksmith come to you is the most expensive option.

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