How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the hustle of taking kids to school, running errands, and working things tend to become lost. One of the most frequent items that disappears is the car keys.
In the past, this wasn't a big deal because you could easily replace it at your local hardware store or locksmith. Nowadays, that is not as easy.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
If you've lost your car keys The first person to contact is your dealer. Most car dealers keep a record of each key designed for their vehicles, therefore it should be simple for them to track down your keys. The drawback is that visiting the dealership can be costly so it's crucial to look for a different one. You might be able to get a lower price by using an auto locksmith.
In the majority of instances, you'll need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and evidence of ownership, like a copy of your registration or title, in order to get an alternative key from the dealer. The dealership will then order a new key and pair it with your vehicle. This can be a lengthy process, and you'll need to wait until the dealer has completed the job.
Many cars today are equipped with keys that are specialized known as a smart keys. They are designed to activate a proximity sensor inside the vehicle, allowing for keyless entry and start. These keys are often paired with ignitions that require a push-to start. Dealers will offer you a smart key but it's costly. Local auto locksmiths can give you a smart key at a fraction of the cost.
You can also get an old-fashioned key replacement from your local hardware store. They can create an ordinary lock cylinder key. They will require the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you are unable to locate the VIN it's typically stamped on a metal plaque located on the driver's side doorpost or dashboard. Even if you don't have the original, many locksmiths in the automotive industry will be able to provide you with an alternative car key. In some cases the locksmith might need to remove the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. It's not a risky job, but it requires some mechanical knowledge.
2. Contact an expert locksmith
Losing your car keys is one of the most common reasons for roadside assistance and calls. It is essential to keep a spare key with your person and ensure that it's somewhere safe. However even the most cautious people can lose their car keys. It is essential to search thoroughly for the key and to inform your insurance company as quickly as you can to minimize the chances of getting denied a claim in the event that it happens to be stolen later.
A locksmith's call is the next best thing if you don't own a spare. A locksmith can generally provide a replacement key for less than the dealership would charge. They are also able to come out to your location and create the key on the spot which is more convenient than having to bring your vehicle back to the dealership.
The type of car key you have could affect the cost to replace it. Traditional keys, which can be replaced at most hardware stores for $10 each they are the least expensive. If your vehicle is equipped with an ignition key that can be used as a remote to lock and start the vehicle, or a smart-key, which can only be replaced at a dealership, the price of these keys is usually more expensive than traditional keys.
A locksmith can replace keys that are smart or fob in the majority of cases as long they have the VIN number for your vehicle. 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 a copy of your 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 by searching online or asking family and friends for recommendations. Also, be aware that using unauthorized keys to start the car can result in a breach of the warranty on your vehicle. A key that is not authorized could damage the lock of your car. If you aren't willing to risk it, it's a good idea to contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith, and wait for a replacement key from the dealer.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
One of the worst things you can do when you lose your car key is to panic. Take a deep breath and then try to reason your situation. It is likely that you lost your keys due to you misplaced them, instead of them being stolen. The next step is retrace the steps you followed and try to locate where your keys were. It might help to look in places you don't normally look, such as the pockets of your pants or coat, or in the bag you carry for running. After you've inspected all of these areas, it's a good idea to contact your insurance company.
Modern cars come with electronic keys that communicate via chips with the car. This communication lets the car recognize the key fob, and then open the doors, and also start the engine. It is crucial to inform the authorities of the loss of your key immediately to stop unauthorized persons from accessing your vehicle.
Certain car insurance companies offer an add-on to their policies that covers the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. Check with lost keys car to determine if this kind of coverage is offered or if an individual locksmith will cover the costs.
You can usually replace a mechanical key in many hardware stores at a reasonable price. If your car has an electronic key that is paired to your vehicle via the chip, you will need to visit your dealership to obtain a replacement. It can be costly, but it's much more cost-effective than hiring locksmith.
In addition to the cost of replacing your car keys and filing an insurance claim to replace a lost key could cause your car insurance rates to rise. The insurance company could raise your premiums due to the fact that they'll consider you to be an extremely risky driver in the event of losing your key. You can avoid these extra cost by buying an electronic device to track your lost keys or hiring a professional locksmith to design keys without copying the previous one.
4. Contact a Tow truck
It's the most gruelling thing to lose your car keys, and nobody wants to see it happen. If it happens, it can be expensive to replace the key and get back on the road. This is why it's important to be prepared for when it does, so you don't have to call a tow truck and keep your cash in your wallet.
Retrace your steps if you've lost your keys. This will allow you to locate them and calm your panic. You may remember doing something at the grocery store, or dropping your keys on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you pinpoint your starting point.
If you are unable to locate your keys, check places you might have put them, such as the pockets of the clothing you were wearing, or in the bag you carried them in to take them home. If you still can't find 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 small devices you can attach to a keyring, and an app on your phone will provide you with the location of your keys.
The cost of replacing a lost car key may vary according to the type of key that you own. If you have a conventional key, an automotive locksmith can typically make a new one on the spot without the original, which will save you some money. If you have a smart key that uses a proximity detector to open doors or start your car's engine it is necessary go to the dealer to obtain a replacement.
It's essential to have a plan in place to deal with the loss of your car keys, so that you can avoid the hassle of having to pay for an tow truck or locksmith. It's easy to lose your car keys when you're tired after a long work day or when your attention is focused busy with other things. However, by following these steps you can ensure your keys don't disappear forever, and you have a backup plan in case when they do.