How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Things are often lost in the hustle of bringing kids to and from school, completing errands and working. Car keys are one of the most commonly lost items.
In the past, this wasn't an issue because you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. However, nowadays, it isn't as simple.
1. Call Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should call in case you lose your key. Most dealers keep a record of every key made for their vehicles therefore it should be simple for them to locate your key. The downside is that visiting the dealership can be expensive, so it's important to look around. You may be able to locate a lower cost solution through an auto locksmith.
In the majority of instances, you'll need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, such as a copy of your title or registration, to obtain an alternative key from the dealership. The dealership will then purchase an additional key and connect it with your vehicle. This could be a long process, and you will be waiting for the dealer to complete the process.
Many vehicles today come with the special kind of key known as a smart key. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor inside the vehicle, which allows the use of a keyless entry system and even starting. These keys are often paired with ignitions that require a push to start. The dealer will sell you a smart key, but it is expensive. A local auto locksmith can make the smart key for about half the cost of what you would buy from the dealership.
You can also get a replacement for your classic key at the local hardware store. They can create a standard key that is compatible with the lock cylinder of your vehicle. They will need to know the year of manufacture of your vehicle, as well as the VIN. If you are unable to locate the VIN on your car, it will be stamped on a plaque made of metal that is located on the dashboard or doorpost. Even if you don't have the original, many locksmiths for automotive can provide you with an alternative car key. However, in some cases they might need to remove the door lock and ignition in order to do this. This is not a dangerous job for a professional, however it does require some mechanical skills and knowledge.
2. Contact a locksmith
Losing your car keys is one of the most frequent reasons for roadside assistance or callouts. It's essential to keep a spare key handy with your person and ensure that it's somewhere safe. However even the most vigilant people may lose their car keys. You should check for the car key and inform your insurance provider immediately if you discover it. This will decrease the chances of your claim being denied later if your key is found stolen.
A locksmith's call is the best option in the event that you don't have a spare. A locksmith can generally offer a replacement key for less than the dealership would charge. They can also come to your location to create the key on the spot which is much more convenient than having your vehicle taken back to the dealer.
The kind of car key you have could affect the cost to replace it. The most affordable keys are the traditional keys that can be purchased at many hardware stores. They are priced at around $10 per key. If your vehicle is equipped with an ignition key that can be used as a remote for unlocking and start the car, or a smart-key, which can only be replaced at a dealership, the price of these keys is typically higher than the traditional one.
In the majority of instances, an automotive locksmith will be able to replace a key fob or smart key as long as they have the VIN number for your vehicle, which is typically found on a metal plaque on the driver's side doorpost, or in the windshield of the vehicle. They will need evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
Some locksmiths aren't licensed or insured, so make sure to research them before hiring. You can locate reputable auto locksmiths on the internet or asking friends and family for recommendations. Be aware that using a fake key to start your vehicle could cause a breach of warranty. The use of a key that is not authentic could cause damage to the lock of your vehicle. If you do not want to risk it, it is best to call roadside help instead of a locksmith for cars 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 key. The first step is to take your breath and try to understand the situation. Chances are that you lost your keys due to you misplaced them, instead of having them taken. So, the next step is to trace your steps and try to figure out where they disappeared. You might want to check places that you wouldn't normally look at such as the pockets of your pants, bag or coat that you use for running. Once you've checked all of these areas it's a good idea call your insurance company.
Modern cars are fitted with electronic keys that connect to your car through chips. This communication allows the vehicle recognize the key fob and unlock the doors, as well as start the engine. lost keys to my car is crucial to immediately report the loss of your key immediately to prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing your vehicle.
Certain car insurance companies offer a policy add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. Check with your insurance company to find out if this type of coverage is available or if a locksmith will cover the costs.
If your car has a standard mechanical key, you'll be able to replace it at any hardware store at a cost of a small amount. If, however, your car is equipped with an electronic key fob, which is connected to your car via the chip, you'll need go to the dealership for the replacement. It can be costly however it's more cost-effective than hiring a locksmith.
In addition to the cost of replacing your car keys and submitting an insurance claim for the loss of a key could cause your car insurance rates to rise. This is because your insurance provider will consider you an extremely risky driver for the loss of your car key, and may raise your premiums to offset the cost of settling a claims claim. Fortunately, you can avoid the extra expenses by purchasing a device to track your lost car key or having a locksmith create a 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 see it happen. If it does happen, it can be costly to replace the lost key and get you back on the road again. It's important to be prepared so that you don't have call a tow-truck and can keep your money.
When you've lost your car keys, the very first thing to do is retrace your steps. This will allow you to locate them and ease your anxiety. You might recall doing something in the grocery store or putting your keys on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you pinpoint your place of origin.
If you can't find your keys, look around 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 not able to locate the keys, give yourself time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.
Another option is to utilize a bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are small devices that can be connected to your keyring and have an app installed on your phone that will reveal where your keys are so you don't have to go through every pocket or drawer in your house.
The cost of replacing lost car key can be a bit expensive dependent on the type of key that you own. You can save money if you have a traditional car key. A locksmith for automotive will usually be capable of making a replacement on the spot, without the original. However, if you own an electronic key that relies on a proximity sensor to open the door or start the engine, you'll need to visit the dealer to get a replacement.
It is essential to have a plan in place in case you lose 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 stressed or distracted, it's not difficult to lose your keys to your car. However, by following these steps you can ensure your keys don't disappear forever and have a backup plan for when they do.