How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Things can get lost in the hustle of getting children to and from school, running errands, and working. Our car keys are one of the most frequently lost items.
In the past, this was not a big deal because you could easily replace it at your local hardware store or locksmith. Today, it's not as easy.
1. Call Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should call should you lose your keys. The majority of dealers keep records of every key that they have made for their vehicles, so they are likely to be able find your key. The disadvantage is that going to the dealership can be expensive and it's essential to shop for a different one. You may be able to find a cheaper solution through an automotive locksmith.
You will most likely need to provide the dealership with your vehicle identification number, or VIN, and evidence of ownership (such as a copy of your registration or title) to obtain the replacement key. The dealership will then request a new key and pair it with your vehicle. This could be a long process, and you will need to wait for the dealer to finish the task.
Smart keys are a kind of key used in a lot of automobiles today. They are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, which allows for keyless entry and starting. They are usually used with ignitions that are push-to-start. The dealer will sell you a smart key but it is expensive. Local auto locksmiths can create you a smart key for a fraction of the cost.
You can also replace your key with a new one at the local hardware store. They can make you an ordinary lock cylinder key. They'll need to know the year of manufacture of your car, as well as the VIN. If you can't find the VIN on your car, it will be stamped on a metal plaque located on the dashboard or the driver's doorpost. The majority of locksmiths for automotive can provide you with an alternative car key even if they don't have the original. In some cases the locksmith may need to take apart the ignition and door locks in order to complete the task. It's not a risky task, but it requires some technical knowledge.
2. Call an expert locksmith
Misplacing your car keys is among of the most common reasons for roadside assistance and calls. It is essential to keep a spare key on you and make sure it's somewhere safe. However even the most vigilant people may lose their car keys. It is important to look for the car key and notify your insurance company immediately if you spot it. This will decrease the chance of your claim being denied if your key is found stolen.
If you don't have an extra key, your next best option is to contact a locksmith. Locksmiths can usually offer a replacement key for less than what the dealership would charge. They may also come to your location to create keys right there which is easier than having your vehicle brought back to the dealer.
The type of car key you have could affect the cost to replace it. The most affordable keys are the standard keys that are available at many hardware stores. They cost about $10 per key. If your car has a key fob, which functions as a remote and can be used to unlock and start the engine, or a smart-key, that can only be replaced by a dealership the keys will typically cost more than the standard key.
A locksmith can replace a smart key or key fob in the majority of cases as long they have the VIN number of your car. It is usually located on the metal plate on the driver's doorpost or on the windshield. They will also need proof that you own the car and have an original registration or title.
Some locksmiths aren't licensed or insured, so be sure to research them before hiring them. You can find reputable auto locksmiths on the internet or asking family and friends for suggestions. Also, be aware that using unauthorized keys to start the car can result in a violation of your vehicle's warranty. The use of a key that is not authentic could cause damage to the lock on your vehicle. If you don't want to take this risk is a good idea to contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith and wait for your replacement key from the dealer.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Panic is one of the worst reactions you can experience when you lose your key. The first step is take your breath and try to understand the situation. It is more likely that you misplaced your keys than they were stolen. The next step is to retrace the steps you took and try to locate where your keys were. You may want to look in areas you're not usually checking, like the pockets of your pants, bags or coats you carry for running. After you've looked through all these places it's a good idea to call your insurance company.
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate with chips with the car. This allows the car to recognize and open the doors and then start the engine. If you lose your keys it is important to report it immediately to ensure that people who are not authorized can't enter your car and use it.
Certain car insurance companies provide an insurance add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. It's worth checking with your insurance company to find out 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 the mechanical key at most hardware stores for a reasonable cost. If your car uses an electronic key that is connected with your vehicle using the chip, then you will have to visit your dealer to purchase an replacement. lost key to car however it's much cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.
In addition to the cost of replacing your car key and submitting an insurance claim to replace a lost key could cause your car insurance rates to increase. This is because the insurance company will view you as high-risk driver for loosing your car key, and may raise your premiums in order to offset the cost of paying out an insurance claim. Fortunately, you can avoid the extra expenses by purchasing a tracking device to track your lost car keys or having a locksmith create the new key without cloning the original.
4. Contact towing truck
No one wants to lose their car keys. It's the most embarrassing thing that could occur. But if it does it could be costly to replace the lost key and get you back on the road. It's essential to be prepared so that you don't have to call a tow truck and keep your money.
Retrace your steps if you've lost your keys. This will help you locate them and ease your anxiety. Make a list of what you did right before 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 where you should 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 when you got home. If you are unable to find them, take a few minutes to relax before calling an locksmith or a tow truck.
A key tracker bluetooth can also be used with your phone. These are tiny devices can be connected to your keyring, and also have an app installed on your phone that can reveal where your keys are, so you don't have to search every pocket or drawer in your home.
The cost of replacing lost car key may vary according to the type of key you own. If you have a conventional key, an automotive locksmith can usually make a new one immediately without the original, which can save you money. However, if you own an electronic key that relies on proximity sensors to open the door or start the engine, you'll have to go to the dealership to purchase a new one.
It's important to have a plan to deal with the loss of your car keys, so that you will not have the hassle of having to pay for a tow truck or a locksmith. When you're tired or distracted, it's not difficult to lose your car keys. However, by following these steps you can ensure your keys don't disappear forever and have a backup plan the event that they do.