How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the hustle of getting kids to school, running errands, and working, things have a tendency to get lost. Our car keys are one of the most frequently lost items.
In the past, this wasn't an issue because you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. This is not the case anymore.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person to contact should you lose your keys. The majority of car dealers keep a log of every key that is made for their vehicles, so it should be easy for them to find your key. The disadvantage is that visiting the dealership can be expensive so it's crucial to look around. You may be able to find a cheaper solution through an auto locksmith.
It is likely that you will need to give the dealership your vehicle identification number, or VIN, and proof of ownership (such as a copy of registration or title) to obtain the replacement key. The dealership will then order an alternative key and connect it with your vehicle. The dealer will need to complete this lengthy procedure.
A lot of cars today have a special type of key called a smart key. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, allowing for keyless entry and starting. They are usually used with ignitions that require a push-to start. You can buy a new smart key from the dealership, but the cost is quite expensive. A local auto locksmith can make the smart key for about half the cost of what you'd buy from the dealership.
You can also get a replacement for your classic key at your local hardware store. They can create an ordinary lock cylinder key. They will need to know the model year of your vehicle and also the VIN. If you are unable to locate the VIN it's usually stamped on a metal plaque found on the driver's doorpost or the dashboard. Most locksmiths in the automotive industry can provide you with a car key replacement, even if you don't have the original. In some instances they may have to take apart the door lock and ignition to do so. This is not a dangerous job for a professional, however it will require some mechanical expertise and skills.
2. Contact a locksmith
The most frequent reason for seeking roadside assistance is that you have 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 check for the car keys and notify your insurance company immediately if you discover it. This will reduce the chances of your claim being denied later should your key be found stolen.
A locksmith's call is the next best option if you don't own an extra key. Locksmiths usually can provide a key replacement for less than the cost a dealership would charge. They can also come to your location to make the key right there, which is more convenient than having your vehicle taken back to the dealer.
The type of car key that you are using can impact the cost to replace it. Traditional keys are able to be replaced at the majority of hardware stores for around $10 each they are the least expensive. If your car has a key fob, which acts like a remote and can unlock and start the engine or a smart-key, which can only be replaced by an auto dealer, these keys will usually cost more than the traditional key.
A locksmith can replace keys that are smart or fob in most cases so long as they have the VIN number for your vehicle. It is usually located on the metal plaque on the driver's doorpost or stamped on the windshield. They will need evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
It is essential to do your homework prior to hiring a locksmith. You can find qualified auto-locksmiths through online search engines or asking family members and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using a fake key to start your vehicle could cause a breach of warranty. The use of keys that are not authorized could damage your car's lock. If you do not wish to risk it you should call roadside help instead of a car locksmith and wait until your dealer delivers a new key.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Panic is one of the worst reactions you can have when you lose your keys. Take a deep breath and then try to think about your situation. It is more likely you lost your keys rather than they were stolen. The next step is to retrace your steps and try to find out the location where they disappeared. It may help to look around in places that you would not normally check, such as the pockets of your pants or coat or in the bag you carry around when you run. After you've looked in these places you must contact your insurance company.
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate with a chip with the car. This communication process allows the vehicle to recognize and unlock the doors and then start the engine. If you lose your keys it is important to report it immediately to ensure that anyone who isn't authorized aren't able to enter your vehicle and use it.
Certain insurance companies provide an add-on to their policy that will cover the cost of a replacement car key. Check with your insurance company to find out if this type of insurance is offered or if an individual locksmith can pay for the costs.
It is possible to replace a mechanical key in most hardware stores for a fair price. If, however, your car has an electronic key fob that is paired with your car through the chip, you'll have go to the dealership to get an upgrade. It can be costly, but it's much more cost-effective than hiring a locksmith.
In the event of filing an insurance claim because of the theft of your car key could increase your insurance costs. This is because your insurance company will view you as an extremely risky driver for the loss of your car key and could increase your premiums to offset the cost of paying out an insurance claim. You can reduce these expenses by purchasing a tracking device that will locate your lost key or hiring a professional locksmith to create a key without cloning the previous one.
4. Contact a Tow truck
It's one of the most difficult things to lose your car keys, and nobody wants to see it happen. However, if it does happen it can be expensive to replace the lost key and get back on the road. That's why it's best to be prepared if it happens, so you won't need to call a tow truck, and keep your money in your wallet.
Retrace lost car key with no spare if you've lost your keys. This will help you find them and calm your panic. Try to recall what you did prior to losing your keys, like picking up something from the grocery store or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you to identify your starting point.
If you can't locate your keys, check places where you may have put them, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or in the bag that you carried them in to take them to home. If you're still not able to locate them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.
A key tracker with bluetooth can be utilized on your phone. These are small devices that can be attached to your keyring and use an app for your phone to let you know where your keys are so you don't need to search every pocket or drawer in your home.
The cost of replacing a lost car key may vary depending on the type of key that you have. If you have a conventional key an automotive locksmith will usually make a new one in a matter of minutes without the original one, which can save you money. If you have a smart key that uses proximity sensors to open the door or turn on the engine, you'll have go to the dealer to get a replacement.
You should have a plan for when you lose your keys. This will spare you the hassle of having to pay for the tow-truck or locksmith. If you're exhausted or distracted, it's not difficult to lose your keys to your car. However, by following these steps to ensure that your keys don't vanish forever and have a backup plan for when they do.