How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the hustle of sending kids to school, running errands, and working it is common for things to become lost. Our car keys are one of the most frequently lost items.
In the past you could easily replace this at your local hardware or locksmith store. This isn't the case anymore.
1. Call Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should call in case you lose your key. Most car dealers keep track of every key designed for their vehicles, so it should be easy for them to locate your key. It's expensive to go to a dealership and therefore, you should research. You may be able find a cheaper 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 registration or title, to obtain an alternative key from the dealership. The dealership will order an alternative key and connect it to your vehicle. This could be a long process, and you will be waiting until the dealer has completed the process.
Many vehicles today are equipped with a special type of key known as a smart key. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor inside the vehicle, which allows for keyless entry and start. They are usually paired with ignitions that have a push-to-start feature. You can purchase a brand new smart key from a dealership, but the cost is very expensive. Local auto locksmiths can give you a smart key for less than the cost.
You can also get an old-fashioned key replacement from a local hardware store. They can make a standard key that fits the lock cylinder in your car. They will need the VIN and the model year. If you are unable to locate the VIN, it is usually stamped on a metal plaque that is located on the driver's side doorpost or dashboard. The majority of locksmiths for automotive are able to offer an alternative car key, even if you don't have the original. In some instances the locksmith might need to disassemble the ignition and door locks in order to do this. This isn't a risky job for a professional, however it does require some mechanical expertise and skills.
2. Call a Locksmith
The most common reason for seeking roadside assistance is when you've lost your car keys. Keep an extra car key in your bag and store it in a safe place. Even the most cautious of people may lose their keys. You should look for the car key and notify your insurance company immediately if you discover it. This will decrease the likelihood of your claim being rejected later in the event that your key is stolen.
A locksmith's call is the next best option in the event that you don't have an extra key. Locksmiths usually can offer a replacement key for less than what a dealership would charge. They may also come to your location to make the key on the spot which is easier than having your vehicle taken back to the dealer.
The cost of replacing your car key can vary depending on the model you have. The most affordable keys are traditional keys that can be bought at many hardware stores. They cost about $10 per key. If your vehicle is equipped with keys 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 an auto dealer, the cost of these keys is typically higher than the traditional one.
A locksmith can replace the smart key or key fob in the majority of cases as long as they have the VIN number of your vehicle. It is usually located on the metal plaque on the driver's doorpost or stamped on the windshield. They will require evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
Some locksmiths are not licensed or insured, so make sure to do your research prior to hiring them. You can find qualified auto-locksmiths by searching on the internet or asking family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using an unauthorized key to start your vehicle could cause an infringement of warranty. The use of a key that is not authentic could cause damage to the lock on your car. If you aren't willing to risk it you should consider to contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith, and wait for a replacement key from the dealer.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
One of the worst things you can do when you lose your car keys is to panic. Relax, and then try to reason your situation. It is likely that you lost your keys due to you lost them, rather than having them taken. The next step is retrace the steps you followed and try to find out where your keys went missing. lost keys for car could be helpful to check places you don't normally look for items, like the pockets of your coat or pants or in the bag you use when running. Once you've checked all these places it's a good idea call your insurance company.
Most modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate with your car through chips. This process of communication allows the car to recognize the key fob, unlock the doors and then start the engine. If you lose your key It is crucial to report this immediately so that unauthorized people can't enter your car and use it.
Certain insurance companies provide an additional benefit to their policies that will cover the cost of a replacement car key. It is worth contacting your insurance provider to determine if they offer this type of protection or if you can find an individual locksmith who will cover the cost.
It is possible to replace the mechanical key at most hardware stores for a reasonable price. However, if your vehicle has an electronic key fob that's paired with your car through the chip, you'll have go to the dealership to request an upgrade. It's expensive but it's cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.
Making an insurance claim because of a car key that was stolen can increase your insurance costs. This is because the insurance company will consider you a high-risk driver for losing your car key, and may raise your premiums to cover the cost of making the claim. Fortunately, you can reduce the costs by purchasing a device to locate your car key that has been lost or having a locksmith make the new key without cloning the original.
4. Call a Tow truck
It's the most gruelling thing to lose your car keys, and nobody would want to experience this. If it does happen, it can be costly to replace the lost key and get back on the road again. It's why it's important to be prepared if it happens, so that you can avoid having to call a tow truck, and keep your cash in your wallet.
Retrace your steps in case you've lost your keys. This will help you figure out exactly where they are, and help you calm your anxiety. You might recall doing something at the supermarket, or dropping your keys on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you to determine where you should start.
If you're unable to locate your keys, look around where they might be like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing or the bag you put them in when you got home. If you still can't find them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.
Another alternative is to utilize an bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are small devices that can attach to a keyring and an app on your phone will display the location of your keys.
The cost to replace a lost car key can differ based on the type of key you have. You can save money when you use traditional car keys. A locksmith for automotive is usually in a position to create a new key immediately, and without the original. If you are using a smart-key that utilizes proximity sensors to open the doors or turn on the engine of your car then you'll need to visit the dealership to purchase a new one.
It is essential to have a plan for when you lose your car keys, so you can save yourself the headache of having to pay for a tow truck or a locksmith. If you're exhausted or distracted, it's not difficult to lose your keys to your car. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your keys don't disappear forever. You should also have backup plans in the event that they do.