How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the hustle of getting children to school, running errands and working, things have a tendency to get lost. One of the most common items that disappears 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, this isn't the case anymore.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should contact if you lose your key. The majority of car dealers have a record for every key made for their vehicles, which means they are likely to be able find your key. The drawback is that visiting the dealership can be expensive, so it's important to shop for a different one. You might be able to get a lower price through an automotive locksmith.
In the majority of 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 request a replacement key and pair it to your vehicle. lost keys will have to complete this lengthy process.
Smart keys are a kind of key that is utilized in a variety of cars today. They are designed to activate a proximity sensor inside the vehicle, allowing for keyless entry and start. They are typically used in conjunction with push-to-start ignitions. You can purchase a brand new smart key from the dealership, but the price is quite expensive. Local auto locksmiths can create you a smart key for only a fraction of the cost.
You can also purchase a classic key replacement at your local hardware store. They can design a standard lock cylinder key. They will need the VIN and the year of manufacture. 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. Most automotive locksmiths are able to provide you with the replacement for your car key even if you don't have the original. In some cases, the locksmith may have to remove the door lock and ignition in order to complete the task. It is not a dangerous job, but it does require some technical knowledge.
2. Call for a locksmith
Losing your car keys is among of the most common causes for roadside assistance and calls. It is essential to keep a spare key on your person and ensure that it's safe. However, even the most careful people may lose their car keys. It is important to look for the car key and notify your insurance company immediately if you discover it. This will lower the likelihood of your claim being denied later if your key is found stolen.
Contacting a locksmith is the next best thing when you don't have a spare. Locksmiths can usually provide a replacement key at less than what the dealership will charge. They are also able to come out to your location and create the key on the spot and is more convenient than having to bring your vehicle back to the dealership.
The cost of replacing your car keys will vary based on the model you have. Keys that are traditional that can be exchanged at most hardware stores for $10 each, are the most affordable. If your car is equipped with keys that can be used as a remote to unlock and start the car, or a smart-key that is only able to be replaced at a dealership, the price of these keys will be more expensive than the standard one.
A locksmith can replace the smart key or key fob in most cases as long as they have the VIN number for your vehicle. This is usually found on the metal plate that is on the driver's doorpost or on the windshield. They will also need evidence that you have ownership of the vehicle and have the registration or title.
Some locksmiths are not licensed or insured, so be sure to research them before hiring. You can find reputable auto locksmiths by searching online or asking family members and friends for suggestions. Be aware that using keys you have not authorized to start your car could lead to the violation of your vehicle's warranty. Using unauthorized keys may also cause damage to your car's lock. If you do not want to take this risk, it is best to call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith for your car and wait until your dealer delivers a new key.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Panic is among the most unpleasant reactions you could experience when you lose your key. Take a deep breath, and then try to reason your situation. It is likely that you lost your keys because you misplaced them, rather than having them taken. So, the next step is to trace your steps and attempt to determine the place they disappeared. You may want to look in places you don't normally check like the pockets of your pants, or a bags or coats you carry for running. After you've inspected all these places it's a good idea contact your insurance company.
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate with chips with the car. This communication allows the vehicle recognize the key fob, and then open 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.
Some car insurance providers offer a policy add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost car key. Check with your insurance company to determine if this kind of coverage is offered or if an individual locksmith can pay for the costs.
You can usually get a replacement for a mechanical key in most hardware stores at a reasonable cost. However, if your car has an electronic key fob that's connected to your car via the chip, you'll have go to the dealership to request an upgrade. It's not cheap but it's cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.
Making an insurance claim due to the theft of your car key could increase your insurance rates. Your insurance company may increase your premiums because they'll consider you to be a high-risk motorist in the event of losing your key. Fortunately, you can save yourself the cost of buying a tracking device that can track your lost car keys or letting a locksmith design the new key without cloning the original.
4. Contact for a Tow Truck
No one wants to lose their car keys. It is the worst thing that can occur. If it does happen it could be costly to replace keys and get back on the road. It's important to be prepared in order that you don't have to call a tow-truck and keep your money.
When you've lost your car keys, the very first step is to retrace your steps. This can help you determine where they are and can help you calm your anxiety. Try to recall the actions you took prior to losing your keys, such as picking up something from the grocery store or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you determine your starting point.
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're unable to find them, take some time to relax and then call an locksmith or a tow truck.
Another option is to use an bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are small devices that can attach to a keyring and an app on your smartphone will show you the location of your keys.
The cost of replacing a lost car key may vary dependent on the type of key that you have. It is cheaper if you have traditional car keys. A locksmith for automotive will usually be able to make a replacement on the spot, without the original. If you have a smart-key that uses proximity sensors to open doors or start the engine of your vehicle, you will need to visit a dealership to get a replacement.
You should have a plan in place for the event that you lose your keys. This will spare you 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 thoughts are focused on other things. If you follow these suggestions, you can make sure that your keys don't vanish forever, and you have a backup plan in case the event that they do.