How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Things tend to get lost in the hustle of bringing kids to and from school, running errands and working. Car keys are among of the most commonly lost items.
In the past, this was not an issue since you could easily replace it at your local hardware store or locksmith. Today, it's not as simple.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should contact if you lose your key. Most dealers keep a record of every key that is designed for their vehicles, therefore it should be simple for them to track down your key. The downside is that visiting the dealership can be expensive, so it's important to look for a different one. You might be able to locate a lower cost option through an automotive locksmith.
In the majority of instances, you'll need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, like a copy of your title or registration, to obtain a replacement key from the dealership. The dealership will then order an additional key and connect it with your vehicle. The dealer will need to complete this lengthy process.
Many vehicles today are equipped with keys that are specialized known as a smart key. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor inside the vehicle, allowing for keyless entry and starting. These keys are often paired with ignitions that require a push-to-start. Dealers will offer you a smart key however, it's expensive. Local auto locksmiths can give you a smart lock at only a fraction of the cost.
You can also get a replacement for your key with a new one at the local hardware store. They can make you an ordinary lock cylinder key. They will require the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you can't find the VIN on your car it will be engraved on a plaque made of metal that is located on the dashboard or doorpost. The majority of locksmiths for automotive will be able to offer a car key replacement even if they don't have the original. In some cases the locksmith may need to disassemble the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. This isn't a risky job for a professional, but it will require some mechanical knowledge and skill.
2. Call a Locksmith
Misplacing your car keys is one of the most common causes for roadside assistance and calls. Keep an extra car key in your bag and keep it safe. However, even the most careful people may lose their car keys. It is essential to search thoroughly for the key and inform your insurance company as quickly as you can to minimize the chance of being denied a claim if the key turns up stolen later.
Calling a locksmith is the next best thing in the event that you don't have an extra key. Locksmiths can usually provide a replacement key at less than what the dealership will cost. They may also come to your location to create the key right there, which is more convenient than having your vehicle taken back to the dealer.
The kind of car key you have can affect the cost to replace it. The most affordable keys are the standard keys that can be purchased at many hardware stores. They are priced at around $10 per key. If your car has a key fob, which acts like a remote and allows you to open and start the engine or a smart key, which can only be replaced by a dealership, these keys will usually cost more than the traditional key.
In the majority of instances, an auto locksmith can replace a key fob or smart key if they can get the VIN number of your vehicle it is usually located on a metal plate that is placed on the driver's side of the doorpost or stamped into the windshield of your vehicle. They will require evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
Always do your research before hiring a locksmith. You can find reputable auto locksmiths by looking online or asking friends and family for recommendations. Be aware that using an unauthorized key to start your car could lead to an infringement of warranty. A key that is not authorized could damage the lock of your car. If you don't want to risk this is a good idea to call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith and wait for your replacement key from the dealer.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
One of the worst things you could do when you lose your car keys is to panic. Take a deep breath and then try to rationalize your situation. Most likely, you lost your keys because you misplaced them instead of having them stolen. The next step is to retrace your steps and try to determine where they disappeared. You may want to look in areas you're not usually checking like the pockets of your pants, or a bags or coats you carry for running. After you've checked these places, you should call your insurance company.
Most modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that connect to your car through chip. This communication lets the car recognize the key fob and unlock the doors, and start the engine. It is crucial to report the loss of your keys immediately to prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing your vehicle.
Certain insurance companies provide an add-on to their policy that covers the cost of replacing a key for your car. It's worth talking to your insurance provider to see whether they have this type of insurance or if you can locate an individual locksmith that can pay for the cost.
You can usually replace a mechanical key in most hardware stores for a reasonable price. If your car is equipped with an electronic key that is paired to your vehicle via the chip, then you'll have to visit your dealer to get a replacement. This can be expensive but it's also cheaper than hiring locksmith.
In the event of filing an insurance claim due to the theft of your car key could increase your insurance rates. This is because the insurance company will consider you an extremely risky driver for the loss of your car key and could increase your premiums in order to offset the cost of paying out an insurance claim. lost car key replacement can reduce these cost by buying an electronic device to track your lost keys or having a professional locksmith create keys without copying the original key.
4. Call a tow truck
It's the most gruelling thing to lose your car keys and no one wants to see it happen. If it does happen, it can be costly 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 you can avoid having to call an tow truck and keep your cash in your wallet.
Find your way back if you've lost your keys. This will help you find them and ease your anxiety. You might recall doing something in the grocery store or dropping your keys on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you find your starting point.
If you can't find your keys, check 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're still unable to locate them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.
A key tracker bluetooth can also be utilized on your phone. These are small devices you can attach to a keyring, and an app for your smartphone will provide you with the whereabouts of your keys.
The cost of replacing lost car key can be a bit expensive according to the type of key that you own. If you have a conventional key, an automotive locksmith can usually make a new one in a matter of minutes without the original one, which will save you some money. If you have an electronic key that utilizes a proximity sensor to open the door or turn on the engine, you'll need go to the dealer to get a replacement.
It is essential to have a plan in place 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 for you to forget your car keys when you're tired after a long day, or when your attention is focused busy with other things. By following these tips you can make sure that your keys don't disappear forever, and have backup plans in the event that they do.