How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the rush of getting kids to school, running errands and working things tend to get lost. Our car keys are one of the most frequently lost items.
In the past you could easily replace this at the local locksmith or hardware store. However, nowadays, it isn't as easy.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should contact should you lose your keys. Most car dealers keep track of every key that is made for their vehicles, so it should be easy for them to track down your key. It is expensive to visit a dealership and therefore, you should shop around. You may be able to get a lower price through an automotive locksmith.
You will most likely need to give the dealership your vehicle identification number or VIN, as well as evidence of ownership (such as a copy of your registration or title) to get an alternative key. The dealership will then request the new key and then pair it with your vehicle. The dealer will have to complete this lengthy process.
Many cars today are equipped with keys that are specialized known as a smart key. They are designed to work with a proximity sensor to be activated inside the car, allowing keyless entry and start. They are usually used with ignitions that require a push-to start. You can purchase a brand new smart key from the dealership, but the cost is a bit expensive. Local auto locksmiths can give you a smart key for a fraction of the cost.
You can also purchase a replacement for the key you have always had at your local hardware store. They can design an ordinary lock cylinder key. They'll need to know the year of manufacture of your vehicle and also the VIN. If you can't locate the VIN it's typically stamped on a metal plaque that is located on the driver's side doorpost or the dashboard. Even if you do not have the original key, most automotive locksmiths can offer a replacement car key. However, in some cases they may have to disassemble the ignition and door locks to accomplish this. This is not a hazardous task, but it requires some mechanical knowledge.
2. Contact a locksmith
The most common reason for roadside assistance is that you have lost your car keys. It's essential to keep a spare key handy with you and make sure you keep it in a safe place. Even the most careful people may lose their keys. It is important to look for the car keys and inform your insurance company immediately if you discover it. This will decrease the likelihood of your claim being rejected later if your key is found stolen.
If you don't have a spare key, the next best option is to call the locksmith. Locksmiths are usually able to offer a replacement key for less than what the dealership would charge. They may also come to your location to create the key on the spot, which is more convenient than having your vehicle taken back to the dealer.
The cost of replacing your car keys will vary based on the kind of key you have. The most affordable keys are the standard keys that are available 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 to unlock and start the car, or a smart-key, which can only by replaced at an auto dealer, the cost of these keys is typically more expensive than traditional keys.
A locksmith can replace keys that are smart or fob in the majority of cases as long as they have the VIN number for your vehicle. This number is typically found on the metal plaque on the driver's doorpost, or on the windshield. They will also need proof that you have ownership of the vehicle by providing the registration or title.
Some locksmiths aren't licensed or insured, so be sure to research them before hiring. You can find qualified auto-locksmiths by searching online or asking family and friends for suggestions. Also, be aware that using unauthorized keys to start the car can lead to the violation of your vehicle's warranty. Unauthorized keys can damage your car's lock. If you do not want to take this risk, it is best to contact roadside assistance instead of a car locksmith and wait until your dealer sends out a replacement key.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
One of the most dangerous things you can do when you lose your car keys is to panic. The first thing to do is to take a deep breath and try to rationalize the situation. It is more likely you lost your keys than they were stolen. The next step is to retrace the steps you took and try to determine the place where your keys went missing. It could be helpful to look around in places that you don't normally look, such as the pockets of your pants or coat or in a bag you carry when you run. After you've looked in these places you must contact your insurance company.
Most modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that connect to your car through chips. This communication process allows the car to recognize and unlock the doors and start the engine. It is essential to report the loss of your keys immediately to prevent anyone who is not authorized from accessing your vehicle.
Certain car insurance companies offer an insurance add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost car key. It's worth checking with your insurance provider to determine whether they provide this kind of protection or if you can find an individual locksmith who will pay for the cost.
If your car uses the standard mechanical key, you can typically get it replaced at any hardware store for a nominal cost. If your car uses an electronic key that is paired to your vehicle via the chip, then you will have to visit your dealer to get a replacement. It can be costly, but it is much cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.
Filing an insurance claim because of a car key that was stolen can increase your insurance rates. Your insurance company could raise your premiums due to the fact that they'll consider you to be a high-risk motorist because you lost your key. Fortunately, you can often save yourself the cost of buying a tracking device that can track your lost car keys or having a locksmith make the new key without cloning the original.
4. Call for a Tow Truck
No one wants to lose their car keys. It is the worst thing that could happen. If it does happen it can be expensive to replace the lost key and get you back on the road again. It's essential to be prepared so that you don't have call a tow truck and save your money.
If you've lost your car keys, the first step is to retrace your steps. This will help you determine where they are and help calm your panic. You might recall doing something in the supermarket or putting your keys on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you identify your starting point.
If you are unable to locate your keys, look in places you might have put them, like the pockets of the clothing you were wearing, or in the bag you used to carry them home. If you're still not able to locate the keys, give yourself time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.
Another alternative is to use an bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are tiny devices that you can connect to a keyring and an app on your phone will provide you with the whereabouts of your keys.
The cost of replacing a lost car key may vary according to the type of key you own. You can save money if you have a traditional car key. An automotive locksmith is usually able to make a replacement on the spot, but without the original. If you have an electronic key that relies on a proximity sensor to open the door or start the engine, you'll need 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 you will not have the hassle of having to pay for a tow truck or a locksmith. If you're exhausted or distracted, it's easy to lose your car keys. By following on front page , you can ensure that your keys don't disappear forever. You should also have an alternative plan in the event that they happen to disappear.