How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the hustle of sending children to school, running errands, and working things tend to become lost. One of the most frequently lost items that disappears is the car keys.
In the past, this was not a big deal because you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. However, this isn't the case anymore.
1. Call Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person to contact if you lose your key. The majority of dealers keep a record of each key they make for their vehicles, which means they should be able to find your key. It can be costly to visit a dealership, so you should look around. You may be able to find a cheaper solution through an auto locksmith.
You'll likely have to give the dealership your vehicle identification number or VIN, along with proof of ownership (such as a copy of your registration or title) to receive the replacement key. The dealership will then purchase an additional key and connect it with your vehicle. This could be a long procedure, and you'll be waiting until the dealer has completed the process.
A lot of cars today are equipped with a special type of key known as a smart key. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor inside the vehicle, allowing for keyless entry and starting. These keys are typically used with ignitions that require a push-to-start. You can purchase a new smart key at the dealership, but the cost is very expensive. Local auto locksmiths can make you a smart key at a fraction of the cost.
You can also purchase a replacement for your key with a new one at your local hardware store. They can make you an ordinary lock cylinder key. They'll need the model year of your car and the VIN. If you are unable to locate the VIN it's typically stamped on a metal plaque that is located on the driver's side doorpost or the dashboard. Most locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to offer a car key replacement even if you don't have the original. In some instances the locksmith may need to take apart the ignition and door locks to accomplish this. It is not a dangerous 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. Keep a spare car key with you and store it in a safe place. However even the most vigilant people can lose their car keys. It is essential to search thoroughly for the key and to notify your insurance company as quickly as possible to reduce the chances of getting denied a claim if the key happens to be stolen later.
If you don't have a spare key, the next best option is to call an locksmith. A locksmith can generally provide a replacement key for less than the dealership will charge. They can also come to your location to create the key on the spot which is easier than having your vehicle taken back to the dealer.
The kind of car key you have could affect the cost of replacing it. Keys that are traditional that can be exchanged at most hardware stores for about $10 each and are the cheapest. If your vehicle is equipped with a key fob that can be used as a remote to lock and start the vehicle, or a smart-key, which can only by replaced at a dealership, the price of these keys is usually more expensive than the standard one.
In the majority of cases, an automotive locksmith can replace a key fob or smart key if they have the VIN number for your vehicle that is usually found on a metal plate that is placed on your driver's side doorpost or in the windshield of your vehicle. They will also require evidence that you own the car by providing an original registration or title.
Some locksmiths are not licensed or insured, so be sure to investigate them prior to hiring them. You can locate reputable auto locksmiths by searching online or asking family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using a fake key to start your car could lead to an infringement of warranty. A key that is not authorized could cause damage to the lock on your car. If you don't want to take this risk, it's a good idea to call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith and wait for your replacement key from the dealer.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Panic is one of the worst reactions you can be experiencing when you lose your key. Take car keys lost no spare and then try to reason your situation. It is more likely you lost your keys rather than they were stolen. The next step is retrace the steps you followed and try to locate the location where your keys went missing. It's a good idea to check areas you're not usually checking such as the pockets of your pants, or a bag or coat that you use for running. Once you've checked all of these areas, it's a good idea call your insurance company.
Modern cars are fitted with electronic key fobs which communicate with your vehicle via chip. This communication allows the vehicle recognize the key fob and unlock the doors, and also start the engine. It's important that you immediately report the loss of your key immediately to stop unauthorized persons from accessing your vehicle.
Certain insurance companies provide an add-on to their policy that covers the cost of replacing a key for your car. It's worth checking with your insurance company to find out whether they provide this kind of protection or if you can find an individual locksmith that will pay for the cost.
If your car has the standard mechanical key, you can typically have it replaced at most hardware stores at a cost of a small amount. If your car uses an electronic key that connects with your vehicle using the chip, then you'll need to visit your dealership to obtain a replacement. It can be costly however it's much cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.
In addition to the cost of replacing your car keys, filing an insurance claim to replace a lost key can cause your insurance rates to rise. This is because your insurance company will view you as high-risk driver for loosing your car keys and could increase your premiums to offset the cost of paying out an insurance claim. You can cut down on these additional costs by purchasing a device that tracks your lost key to track your lost key or hiring a professional locksmith to create an original key without copying the previous one.
4. Call for a Tow Truck
Everyone would hate to lose their car keys. It's the most embarrassing thing that can happen. If it does happen, it can be costly to replace the key that was lost and get you back on the road again. It's important to be prepared so that you don't have to call a tow-truck and save your money.
When you've lost your car keys, the very first thing to do is trace your steps. This will allow you to locate the keys and calm your panic. Try to recall the actions you took prior to losing your keys, such as picking up something from the supermarket or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you to determine where you should start.
If you can't locate your keys, search in places where you may have placed them, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or the bag you carried them in to take them to home. If you are unable to find them, take a moment to relax and then call a locksmith or a tow truck.
A key tracker bluetooth can also be used on your phone. These are small devices you can attach to a keyring and an app on your phone will show you the location of your keys.
The cost of replacing lost car keys can vary depending on the type of key you have. It is cheaper if you have an old-fashioned car key. An automotive locksmith is usually capable of making a replacement on the spot, but without the original. However, if you own an electronic key that utilizes the proximity sensor to open the door or start the engine, you'll have go to the dealer to get a replacement.
It is essential to have a plan in case you lose your car keys, so you will not have the hassle of having to pay for the tow truck or locksmith. When you're stressed or distracted, it's easy to lose your keys to your car. By following these tips you can make sure that your keys don't disappear forever, and you'll have an alternative plan in case they happen to disappear.