How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Things are often lost in the chaos of bringing kids to and from school, completing errands and working. Car keys are among of the most frequently lost items.
In the past you could easily change this at your local hardware or locksmith store. However, this isn't the case anymore.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should contact if you lose your key. The majority of dealers have a record for every key that they have made for their cars, so they should be able to find yours. It's expensive to visit a dealer and you should shop around. You might be able get a cheaper option by using an auto locksmith.
In the majority of instances, you'll need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, like a copy of your registration or title, in order to obtain an alternative key from the dealership. The dealership will then order a new key and pair it with your vehicle. This could be a long process, and you'll be waiting for the dealer to complete the task.
A lot of cars today come with the special kind of key known as a smart key. These keys are designed to use a proximity sensor to be activated within the car, which allows keyless entry and start. They are usually paired with ignitions that are push-to-start. You can purchase a brand new smart key at the dealership, but the cost is very expensive. Local auto locksmiths can create you a smart key at less than the cost.
You can also replace your key with a new one at your local hardware store. They can create a standard lock cylinder key. They will require the VIN and the model year. If you cannot locate the VIN on your vehicle it will be engraved on a metal plaque located on the dashboard or the driver's doorpost. Even if you do not have the original, most locksmiths for automotive will be able to provide you with an alternative car key. In some instances the locksmith may need to take apart the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. It's not a risky job, but it requires some mechanical knowledge.
2. Contact a locksmith
The misplacing of your car keys is one of the most common reasons for roadside assistance and callouts. Keep a spare car key with you and keep it safe. Even the most cautious of people may lose their keys. You should look for the car key and notify your insurance company immediately if you discover it. This will reduce the chances of your claim being denied later if your key is found stolen.
Contacting a locksmith is the best option if you don't own a spare. Locksmiths are usually able to offer a replacement key for less than what the dealership will cost. They can also visit your location to make keys right there which is easier than having your vehicle brought back to the dealer.
My Web Site of car key that you are using can impact the cost to replace it. The most affordable keys are traditional keys that can be purchased at the majority of hardware stores. They are about $10 per key. If your car has the key fob, which acts as a remote that allows you to open and start the engine, or a smart key that can only be replaced by dealers, these keys will usually cost more than the traditional key.
In most instances, an automotive locksmith can replace the key fob or smart key as long as they can get the VIN number for your vehicle, which is typically found on a metal plaque on your driver's side doorpost or stamped into the windshield of the vehicle. They will also need proof that you have ownership of the vehicle, such as an original registration or title.
It is essential to conduct your research prior to hiring locksmith. You can find auto-locksmiths who are certified by searching on the internet, or asking family and friends for recommendations. 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 cause damage to the lock of your vehicle. If you aren't willing to take this risk is a good idea to contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith, and wait for your replacement key from the dealer.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Panic is among the most negative reactions you can experience when you lose your keys. Take a deep breath, and then try to rationalize your situation. It is more likely that you misplaced your keys than they were stolen. The next step is retrace the steps you took and attempt to determine where your keys went missing. It may help to look in places you wouldn't usually check like pockets in your coat or pants or in the bag you carry around when you run. Once you've checked all these places, it's a good idea call your insurance company.
Modern cars come with electronic keys that communicate via an electronic chip with the car. This allows the car to recognize and open the doors and then start the engine. It's important that you immediately report the loss of your keys immediately to stop unauthorized persons from using your vehicle.
Certain car insurance companies offer an insurance add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. It is worth contacting your insurance provider to see if they offer this type of insurance or if you can locate an individual locksmith that will cover the cost.
If your car is equipped with an ordinary mechanical key, you'll be able to get it replaced at most hardware stores for a nominal cost. However, if your car has an electronic key fob that is connected to your car via the chip, you'll need to go to your dealership for an upgrade. It can be costly however it's cheaper than hiring locksmith.
In the event of filing an insurance claim because of a car key that was stolen can increase your insurance costs. Your insurance company may increase your premiums as they'll view you as an extremely risky driver because you lost your key. Fortunately, you can reduce the costs by buying a tracking device that can locate your car key that has been lost or having a locksmith make a new key without cloning the original.
4. Call towing truck
It's one of the most difficult things to lose your car keys, and nobody wants it to happen. If it does happen it could be costly to replace the key that was lost and get back on the road again. It's essential to be prepared in order that you don't need to call a tow-truck and can keep your money.
Find your way back if you've lost your keys. This will aid in determining where they are and can help you calm your anxiety. You might remember doing something in the grocery store or dropping your keys on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you find your starting point.
If you are unable to locate your keys, look around 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 can't locate them, take a moment to relax and then call a locksmith or a tow truck.
Another option is to utilize a bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are small devices that can be attached to your keyring and use an app installed on your phone that can let you know where your keys are, so you don't need to search every drawer or pocket in your home.
The cost of replacing a lost car key can differ based on the type of key you have. You could save money when you use an old-fashioned car key. A locksmith for automotive will usually be in a position to create a new key on the spot, without the original. If you are using a smart-key that utilizes a proximity detector to open doors or turn on the engine of your car, you will need go to the dealer to get a replacement.
It is important to have a plan for when you lose your keys. This will save 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 car keys. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your keys won't disappear forever. You should also have backup plans in case they do.