How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Things are often lost in the chaos of bringing children to and from school, running errands, and working. One of the most frequent items that go missing is our keys to our car.
In the past, this wasn't a big deal because you could easily replace it at your local hardware store or locksmith. However, nowadays, it isn't as easy.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
If you've lost your car key The first place to contact is your local car dealer. Most car dealers keep track of every key that is made for their vehicles therefore it should be simple for them to locate your key. It can be costly to visit a dealer and you should look around. You might be able to find a cheaper option by using an auto locksmith.
You will most likely need to give the dealership your vehicle identification number or VIN, as well as proof of ownership (such as a copy registration or title) to get the replacement key. The dealership will order the replacement key and attach it with your vehicle. The dealer must complete this lengthy process.
Smart keys are a kind of key that is utilized in a lot of automobiles in the present. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, which allows for keyless entry and starting. These keys are typically used with ignitions that require a push to start. The dealer will sell you a smart key but it's costly. A local auto locksmith can create the smart key for a fraction of what you would pay at the dealership.
You can also get a classic key replacement from your local hardware store. They can design the standard lock cylinder keys. They will need to know the year of manufacture of your car and also the VIN. If you cannot locate the VIN on your vehicle, it will be stamped on a metal plaque that is placed on the dashboard or driver's doorpost. Most locksmiths in the automotive industry can provide you with an alternative car key, even if you don't have the original. However, in certain instances they may have to remove the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. It's not a risky job, but it does require some mechanical knowledge.
2. Contact a locksmith
The misplacing of keys to your car is one of the most common reasons for roadside assistance or callouts. It's important to keep a spare key with you and make sure you keep it in a safe place. Even the most careful of people could lose their keys. It is important to thoroughly search for the key and to notify your insurance company as soon as you can to minimize the chances of getting denied a claim if the key happens to be stolen later.
Contacting a locksmith is the best option if you don't own an extra key. Locksmiths can usually offer a replacement key for less than what the dealership would charge. They will usually visit your location and create the key on the spot, which is much more convenient than having to bring your vehicle back to the dealership.
The cost of replacing your car keys will differ based on the type you have. Traditional keys that can be exchanged at most hardware stores for about $10 each they are the least expensive. If your car comes with keys that can be used as a remote to unlock and start the vehicle, or a smart-key, which can only be replaced at a dealership, the cost of these keys will be higher than the traditional one.
In the majority of instances, an auto locksmith will be able to replace a key fob or smart key if they have the VIN number of your vehicle it is usually located on a metal plate on the driver's side of the doorpost or in the windshield of your vehicle. They will need evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
It is essential to do your research before hiring a locksmith. You can find reputable auto locksmiths by searching online or asking family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using an unlicensed key to start your vehicle could cause a breach of warranty. Using unauthorized keys may also cause damage to your car's lock. If you do not want to risk it, it is best to call roadside help instead of a locksmith for your car and wait until the dealer sends out a replacement key.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
One of the most dangerous things you can do when you lose your car keys is to panic. Relax, and then try to rationalize your situation. It is likely that you lost your keys due to you misplaced them, rather than having them taken. The next step is retrace the steps you followed and try to find out the place where your keys were. You may want to look in areas you're not usually checking, like the pockets of your pants, or a bags or coats that you use to run in. After you've inspected these areas, you should call your insurance company.
Modern cars come with electronic keys that communicate with a chip with the car. This communication process allows the vehicle to recognize the key fob, unlock the doors and then start the engine. It is essential to inform the authorities of the loss of your keys immediately to prevent anyone who is not authorized from utilizing your vehicle.
Certain car insurance companies provide a policy add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. It's worth checking with your insurance provider to determine if they offer this type of coverage or if you can find an individual locksmith who will pay for the cost.
You can usually get a replacement for the mechanical key at most hardware stores at a reasonable price. However, if your car is equipped with an electronic key fob that's linked to your vehicle via the chip, you'll need go to the dealership to get an upgrade. It's expensive however it's much cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.
In the event of filing an insurance claim because of a car key that was stolen can increase your insurance rates. Your insurance company may increase your premiums as they'll consider you to be an extremely risky driver because you lost your key. Fortunately, you can reduce the costs by purchasing a tracking device to locate your car key that has been lost or letting a locksmith design a new key without cloning the original.
4. Contact towing truck
Nobody wants to lose their car keys. It's the worst thing that can happen. However, if it does happen it can be expensive to replace the key that was lost and get back on the road. That's why it's best to be prepared if it happens, so that you can avoid having to call an tow truck and keep your money in your wallet.
Find your way back in case you've lost your keys. This will help you find them and ease your anxiety. Try to recall the actions you took prior to losing your keys, like picking up something from the grocery store or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you pinpoint the place to start.
If you are unable to locate your keys, search for places in which they could be, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing or the bag you put them in after you returned home. If you can't find them, take some time to relax before calling an locksmith or a tow truck.
A bluetooth key tracker can also be utilized on your phone. These are small devices you can attach to a keyring, and an app on your phone will display the location of your keys.
The cost of replacing a lost car key may vary according to the type of key you have. You could save money if you have traditional car keys. An automotive locksmith will usually be capable of making a replacement on the spot, without the original. If lost my key have a smart key that uses a proximity detector to open doors or turn on your car's engine, you will need go to the dealer to purchase a new one.
It's essential to have a plan for when you lose your car keys, so that you can save yourself the headache of having to pay for an tow truck or locksmith. It's easy to forget your car keys when you're tired after a long day, or when your thoughts are focused distracted by other things. If you follow these suggestions you can ensure your keys don't disappear forever and have a backup plan for when they do.