How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the shuffle of taking children to school, running errands and working it is common for things to get lost. Our car keys are one of the most commonly lost items.
In the past, this was not an issue since you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. However, nowadays, it isn't as easy.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should call in case you lose your key. The majority of dealers keep records of each key they make for their vehicles, which means they are likely to be able find your key. The drawback is that visiting the dealership can be costly, so it's important to shop around. You may be able locate a lower cost option through an automotive locksmith.
In most cases, you will need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and evidence of ownership, such as a copy of the title or registration, to obtain a replacement key from the dealer. The dealership will then order a new key and pair it with your vehicle. This can be a lengthy procedure, and you'll need to wait for the dealer to complete the process.
Many vehicles today have a special type of key called a smart key. These keys are designed for a proximity sensor to be activated within the car, allowing keyless entry and starting. They are usually paired with ignitions that are push-to-start. The dealer can sell you a smart key, however, it's expensive. Local auto locksmiths can give you a smart key at less than the cost.
You can also get a classic key replacement from your local hardware store. They will be able to make a standard key that fits the lock cylinder of your vehicle. They'll need to know the model year of your car and also the VIN. If you cannot locate the VIN on your car it will be stamped on a metal plaque that is placed on the dashboard or doorpost. Even if you do not have the original, many automotive locksmiths can provide you with an alternative car key. However, in some cases they might need to take apart the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. This is not a dangerous job for a professional, but it will require some mechanical expertise and skills.
2. Call for a locksmith
The misplacing of your car keys is among of the most common reasons for roadside assistance or callouts. It is essential to keep a spare key with your person and ensure that 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 inform your insurance company as soon as you can to minimize the chances of getting denied a claim in the event that it is found later stolen.
A locksmith's call is the next best option if you don't own a spare. Locksmiths can usually offer a replacement key for less than the dealership would charge. They are also able to come out to your location and make the key right there and is more convenient than having to bring your vehicle back to the dealership.
The cost of replacing your car key can vary depending on the model you own. The most affordable keys are the standard keys that are available at many hardware stores. They cost about $10 per key. If your car comes with a key fob that can be used as a remote to unlock and start the vehicle or a smart-key that is only able to be replaced at a dealership, the price of these keys is typically more expensive than traditional keys.
In the majority of instances, an automotive locksmith can replace a key fob or smart key as long as they have the VIN number for your car that is usually found on a metal plate on your driver's side doorpost or stamped into the windshield of your vehicle. They will also need proof that you own the car, such as an original registration or title.
replace lost car key are not licensed or insured, so make sure to do your research prior to hiring them. You can find qualified auto locksmiths by looking online or asking your family and friends for recommendations. Also, be aware that using unauthorized keys to start your car could lead to the violation of your vehicle's warranty. The use of keys that are not authorized could damage your car's lock. If you do not wish to risk it then call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith for your car and wait until the dealer delivers a new key.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Panic is one of the most negative reactions you can experience when you lose your keys. Take a deep breath, and then try to think about your situation. It is more likely you lost your keys than they were stolen. The next step is to trace your steps and attempt to find out the location where they disappeared. It's a good idea to check areas you're not usually checking, like the pockets of your pants or coat or a bag that you use for running. After you've looked in these places it is time to call your insurance provider.
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that connect to your vehicle via chips. This communication allows the vehicle recognize the key fob and open the doors, and start the engine. If you lose your keys, it's important to report this immediately to ensure that anyone who isn't authorized aren't able to enter your vehicle and use it.
Certain insurance companies provide an additional benefit to their policies that will cover the cost of replacing a car key. It's worth talking to your insurance provider to see whether they have this type of insurance or if they can locate an individual locksmith who will pay for the cost.
You can usually replace a mechanical key in many hardware stores at a reasonable cost. However, if your vehicle has an electronic key fob that is connected to your car via the chip, you'll have to visit your dealer to request a replacement. It can be costly, but it's much cheaper than hiring locksmith.
In addition to the cost of replacing your car keys and filing an insurance claim for a stolen key can cause your car insurance rates to rise. This is because the insurance company will consider you to be an extremely risky driver for the loss of your car keys, and may raise your premiums to offset the cost of settling an insurance claim. 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. Call a Tow Truck
It's one of the most difficult things to lose your car keys, and nobody would want it to happen. If it does happen it could cost a lot to replace the key and get back on the road. It's essential to be prepared in order that you don't have call a tow-truck and keep your money.
If you've lost your car keys, the very first thing to do is retrace your steps. This will allow you to locate the keys and calm your panic. Make a list of what you did prior to losing your keys, like grabbing something at the supermarket or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you to determine where you should start.
If you can't find 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 when you got home. If you can't locate them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith or a tow truck.
A key tracker with bluetooth can be utilized on your phone. These are small devices that can attach to a keyring and an app on your phone will show you the whereabouts of your keys.
The cost of replacing the car key that has been lost can differ based on the type of key you own. If you own a traditional key an automotive locksmith will typically make a new one immediately without the original one, which will save you some money. If you are using a smart-key that utilizes a proximity detector to open the doors or turn on your car's engine, you will need to visit the dealership to get a replacement.
It's important to have a plan for when you lose your car keys, so that you will not have the hassle of having to pay for the tow truck or locksmith. It's easy to lose your car keys when you're tired after a long work day or when your attention is focused distracted by other things. By following these tips you can ensure that your keys don't disappear forever, and have a back-up plan in the event that they happen to disappear.