How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the shuffle of taking children to school, running errands, and working, things have a tendency to become lost. Car keys are among of the most commonly lost items.
In the past, you could easily replace this at your local hardware or locksmith store. Today, it's not as simple.
1. Call Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should contact if you lose your key. Most car dealers keep a record of every key that is made for their vehicles therefore it should be simple for them to locate your keys. It can be costly to visit a dealership and therefore, you should research. You may be able to locate a lower cost solution by using an auto locksmith.
You'll likely have to give the dealership your vehicle identification number, or VIN, as well as proof of ownership (such as a copy of your registration or title) to obtain an alternative key. The dealership will then purchase an additional key and connect it with your vehicle. The dealer must complete this lengthy procedure.
A lot of cars today have a special type of key called a smart key. They are designed to work with proximity sensors to be activated within the car, allowing keyless entry and starting. These keys are typically used with ignitions that require a push to start. Dealers will offer you a smart key but it is expensive. A local auto locksmith can make an intelligent key for you for a fraction of what you would buy from the dealership.
You can also get a replacement for the key you have always had at the local hardware store. They can create a standard lock cylinder key. They'll need to know the model year of your vehicle, as well as the VIN. If you can't locate the VIN it's typically printed on a metal plate that is located on the driver's side doorpost or dashboard. Most automotive locksmiths will be able to provide you with a car key replacement, even if you don't have the original. In some instances they may have to remove the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. This is not a dangerous job for a professional, however it requires some mechanical skills and knowledge.
2. Contact an expert locksmith
Misplacing your car keys is one of the most frequent reasons for roadside assistance or callouts. Keep an extra car key with you and store it safely. Even the most cautious of people may lose their keys. It is important to look for the car keys and notify your insurance company immediately if you discover it. This will reduce the chances of your claim being denied in the event that your key is stolen.
If you don't have a spare key, the next best option is to call a locksmith. Locksmiths can usually provide a replacement key at less than the dealership will cost. They will usually 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 kind of car key you are using can impact the cost of replacing it. Keys with traditional designs are able to be replaced at most hardware stores for about $10 each, are the most affordable. If your car is equipped with a key fob, which acts like a remote and can unlock and start the engine or a smart key which can only be changed by a dealership, these keys will usually cost more than the standard key.
A locksmith can replace a smart key or key fob in most cases as long as they have the VIN number of your vehicle. This number is typically found on the metal plaque on the driver's doorpost or stamped on the windshield. They will require proof of ownership, like your registration or title.
It is essential to conduct your research prior to hiring a locksmith. You can find auto-locksmiths who are certified by searching on the internet, or asking family and friends for recommendations. Also, be aware that using unauthorized keys to start your car could result in a breach of your vehicle's warranty. Unauthorized keys can damage your car's lock. If you do not want to risk it you should call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith for cars and wait until the 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 your breath and try to think about the situation. It is more likely that you lost your keys than they were stolen. So, lost keys to my car is to retrace your steps and try to determine the location where they were lost. You may want to look in places you don't normally check, like the pockets of your pants, or a coat or a bag you carry to run in. After you've inspected all of these areas it's a good idea to call your insurance company.
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that connect to your vehicle via chips. This allows the car to recognize the key fob, unlock the doors and start the engine. If you lose your key It is crucial to report this immediately to ensure that anyone who isn't authorized can't enter your car and use it.
Certain car insurance companies offer an insurance add-on that covers the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. It is worth contacting your insurance provider to determine whether they have this type of coverage or if you can locate an individual locksmith that will cover the cost.
You can usually get a replacement for a mechanical key in many hardware stores at a reasonable cost. If your car has an electronic key that is paired to your car via the chip, then you'll have to visit the dealership to purchase an replacement. This can be expensive but it's also cheaper than hiring a locksmith.
Filing an insurance claim because of a stolen car key can increase your insurance costs. Your insurance company could increase your premiums because they'll consider you to be an extremely risky driver because you lost your key. Fortunately, you can often reduce the costs by buying a tracking device that can locate your car key that has been lost or letting a locksmith design an entirely new key without copying the original.
4. Contact towing truck
No one wants to lose their car keys. It's the worst scenario that could happen. If it happens it could be costly to replace the key and get back on the road. It is important to be prepared in order that you don't have to call a tow-truck and keep your money.
Follow your steps if you've lost your keys. This can help you figure out exactly where they are and aid in calming your panic. You might remember doing something in the supermarket, or dropping your keys on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you find your starting point.
If you can't find your keys, check 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're still not able to locate them, take some 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 connect to a keyring and an app for your smartphone will provide you with the location of your keys.
The cost of replacing a lost car keys can vary depending on the type of key you own. It is cheaper in the case of a traditional car key. An automotive locksmith will typically be able to make a replacement immediately, and without the original. If you have a smart key that uses a proximity detector to open doors or turn on the engine of your vehicle then you'll need to visit the dealership to get a replacement.
It's important to have a plan 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. It's easy to lose your car keys when you're exhausted after a long day or when your thoughts are focused on other things. By following these tips you can ensure that your keys don't disappear forever, and you'll have a back-up plan in case they do.