How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Things can get lost in the hustle of bringing children to and from school, running errands and working. One of the most frequent items that go missing is our car keys.
In the past you could easily replace this at your local hardware or locksmith store. This is not the situation anymore.
1. Call Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should call if you lose your key. Most dealers keep a record of each key made for their vehicles making it easy for them to find yours. The disadvantage is that going to the dealership can be expensive and it's essential to look for a different one. You might be able to locate a lower cost option through an automotive locksmith.
You will most likely need to provide the dealership with your vehicle identification number, or VIN, as well as evidence of ownership (such as a copy of registration or title) to obtain an alternative key. The dealership will order an alternative key and connect it with your vehicle. The dealer must complete this lengthy procedure.
Many vehicles today come with a special type of key known as a smart key. These keys are designed for a proximity sensor to be activated within the car, allowing keyless entry and start. They are usually paired with push-to-start ignitions. Dealers will offer you a smart key, however, it's expensive. A local auto locksmith can create an intelligent key for you at a fraction of what you'd pay at the dealership.
You can also get a classic key replacement at your local hardware store. They will be able to make a standard key that fits the lock cylinder of your vehicle. They will require the VIN and the model year. If you are unable to locate the VIN it's typically printed on a metal plate that is located on the driver's side doorpost or the dashboard. Even if you do not have the original, many locksmiths for automotive will be able to provide you with an alternative car key. However, in certain instances, they may need to take apart the ignition and door locks to accomplish this. It's not a risky job, but it does require some technical knowledge.
2. Contact for a locksmith
Losing your car keys is among of the most common causes for roadside assistance and callouts. It's important to keep a spare key handy with you and ensure it's safe. Even the most careful of people could lose their keys. It is essential to search thoroughly for the keys and notify your insurance company as quickly as you can to minimize the chances of getting denied a claim if the key happens to be stolen later.
A locksmith's call is the next best thing when you don't have an extra. Locksmiths are usually able to offer a replacement key for less than the cost a dealership would charge. They will usually visit your location and make the key on the spot, which is much more efficient than having to take your vehicle back to the dealership.
The type of car key that you are using can impact the cost to replace it. Traditional keys are able to be replaced at most hardware stores for $10 each they are the least expensive. 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 dealers and will typically cost more than the standard key.
In the majority of cases, an automotive locksmith can replace keys fobs or a smart key if they can get the VIN number of your vehicle it is usually located on a metal plate that is placed on your driver's side doorpost or etched into the windshield of the car. They will also need proof that you have ownership of the vehicle, such as the registration or title.
Some locksmiths aren't licensed or insured, so be sure to do your research prior to hiring. You can find qualified auto locksmiths by looking online or asking friends and family for suggestions. Be aware that using an unlicensed key to start your car could lead to a breach of warranty. The use of keys that are not authorized could cause damage to your car's lock. If you don't want to take this risk is a good idea to call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith and wait for a replacement key from the dealer.
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 rationalize your situation. Chances are that you lost your keys due to you misplaced them, rather than having them stolen. The next step is to go back your steps and determine the place they disappeared. It's a good idea to check places you don't normally check such as the pockets of your pants, bag or coat you carry to run in. After you've looked in these places, you should call your insurance company.
Modern cars come with electronic keys that communicate via chips with the car. This process of communication allows the car to recognize the key fob, unlock the doors, and also start the engine. If you lose your key, it's important to report it immediately so that unauthorized people can't enter your car and use it.
Certain insurance companies provide an extra benefit to their policy that will cover the cost of replacing a car key. It's worth checking with your insurance provider to see if they offer this type of protection or if they can locate an individual locksmith that will pay for the cost.
If your car uses the standard mechanical key, you can typically have it replaced at a variety of hardware stores for a small fee. If your car is equipped with an electronic key that is paired to your vehicle via the chip, then you'll have to visit your dealer to obtain an alternative. It can be costly but it's cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.
In the event of filing an insurance claim because of a car key that was stolen can increase your insurance premiums. The insurance company could increase your premiums as they'll view you as a high-risk motorist in the event of losing your key. You can reduce these expenses by purchasing a tracking device that will track your lost keys or hiring a professional locksmith to design keys without copying the old one.
4. Call a Tow truck
It's the most gruelling thing to lose your car keys and no one wants it to happen. However, if it does happen it could be costly to replace the lost key and get you back on the road. This is why it's important to be prepared in case it happens, so that you don't have to call an tow truck and keep your money in your wallet.
If you've lost your car keys, the first thing to do is retrace your steps. This will help you find the keys and calm your panic. You might remember doing something at the grocery store or putting your keys on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you pinpoint the place to start.
If you are unable to locate your keys, look around where they might be, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing or the bag you put them in when you got home. If you still can't find them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.
Another option is to use a bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are small devices you can connect to a keyring and an app on your smartphone will show you the whereabouts of your keys.
The cost of replacing a lost car key can differ based on the type of key you own. You could save money when you use traditional car keys. A locksmith for automotive will usually be capable of making a replacement on the spot, but without the original. If you have an electronic key that utilizes a proximity sensor to open the door or turn on the engine, you'll need go to the dealer to purchase a new one.
Recommended Browsing is essential to have a plan in place for when you lose your car keys so that you can avoid the hassle of having to pay for an tow truck or locksmith. It's easy to forget your car keys when you're exhausted after a long work day or when your mind is busy with other things. But by following these tips to ensure that your keys won't vanish forever and have a backup plan for the event that they do.