How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the hustle of sending kids to school, running errands, and working, things have a tendency to become lost. Car keys are one of the most frequently lost items.
In the past, this wasn't an issue because you could easily replace it at your local hardware store or locksmith. Nowadays, that is not as easy.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should call in case you lose your key. The majority of car dealers keep a record of each key they make for their vehicles, so they are likely to be able find yours. It is expensive to visit a dealership, so you should research. You might be able find a cheaper solution by using an auto locksmith.
You will most likely need to provide the dealership with your vehicle identification number, or VIN, and evidence of ownership (such as a copy of registration or title) to receive an alternative key. The dealership will then order a replacement key and pair it to your vehicle. This could be a long process, and you will need to wait for the dealer to finish the task.
Many cars today come with a special type of key known as a smart keys. They are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, allowing for keyless entry and start. These keys are often paired with ignitions that require a push to start. You can purchase a brand new smart key at the dealership, but the price is a bit high. Local auto locksmiths can give you a smart lock at only a fraction of the cost.
You can also purchase a traditional key replacement from a local hardware store. They can make you an ordinary key that will fit the lock cylinder in your car. They will require the VIN and the model year. If you can't find the VIN on your car it will be stamped on a metal plaque located on the dashboard or driver's doorpost. Even if you do not have the original, many locksmiths in the automotive industry can provide you with a replacement car key. However, in some cases they may have to remove the ignition and door locks to do so. This is not a dangerous job for a professional, however it will require some mechanical skills and knowledge.
2. Call a locksmith
The most common reason for requesting roadside assistance is when you've lost your car keys. It's essential to keep a spare key handy with you and make sure it's somewhere safe. However even the most vigilant people can lose their car keys. It is important to thoroughly search for the keys and inform your insurance company as quickly as you can to minimize your chances of being denied a claim in the event that it happens to be stolen later.
Calling a locksmith is the best option if you don't own an extra. hop over to this site can provide a key replacement at less than what a dealership would cost. They are also able to visit your location and create the key right there, which is much more efficient than having to take your vehicle back to the dealership.
The type of car key you have could affect the cost to replace it. The most affordable keys are the traditional keys that can be bought at the majority of hardware stores. They are priced at around $10 per key. If your car has the key fob, which acts like a remote and allows you to open and start the engine or a smart key which can only be changed by an auto dealer and will typically cost more than a traditional key.
In most cases, an automotive locksmith can replace the key fob or smart key as long as they have the VIN number of your car that is usually found on a metal plate that is placed on your driver's side doorpost or stamped into the windshield of the vehicle. They will also require evidence that you own the car by providing a copy of your registration or title.
Some locksmiths are not licensed or insured, so make sure to investigate them prior to hiring them. You can find reputable auto locksmiths through online search engines or asking family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using an unlicensed key to start your car could lead to an infringement of warranty. The use of keys that are not authorized could damage your car's lock. If you aren't willing to risk it you should consider 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. Relax, and then try to reason your situation. It is likely that you lost your keys due to you misplaced them rather than having them taken. So, the next step is to trace your steps and determine where they were lost. It might help to look in places you would not normally check, such as pockets on your pants or coat, or in the bag you carry around for running. After you've checked these places it is time to call your insurance provider.
Modern cars come with electronic keys that communicate with an electronic chip with the car. This communication process allows the car to recognize and open the doors and then start the engine. If you lose your keys, it's important to report it immediately to ensure that people who are not authorized aren't able to enter your vehicle and use it.
Some car insurance providers offer a policy add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. Contact your insurance provider to find out if this type of coverage is offered or if an individual locksmith can cover the cost.
You can usually replace a mechanical key in many hardware stores for a reasonable price. If your car uses an electronic key that connects to your vehicle via the chip, then you'll have to visit your dealer to purchase a replacement. This can be costly, but it's much more cost-effective than hiring locksmith.
In addition to the cost of replacing your car key, filing an insurance claim for a stolen key could cause your car insurance rates to increase. Your insurance company could raise your premiums due to the fact that they'll consider you to be a high-risk driver in the event of losing your key. Fortunately, you can often save yourself the cost of purchasing a tracking device to locate your car key that has been lost or having a locksmith make a new key without cloning the original.
4. Contact towing truck
Everyone would hate to lose their car keys. It's the worst scenario that could occur. However, if it does happen it could be costly to replace the key that was lost and get back on the road. It's essential to be prepared so that you don't need to call a tow truck and save your money.
Follow your steps if you've lost your keys. This will help you find them and calm your panic. Try to recall what you did right before losing your keys, like buying something at the supermarket or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you determine the place to start.
If you can't locate your keys, look in places you might have placed them, such as the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or in the bag you used to transport them to home. If you are unable to find them, take a few minutes to relax and then call a locksmith or 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 smartphone will display the whereabouts of your keys.
The cost of replacing a car key that is lost may differ depending on the type of key you have. It is cheaper when you use traditional car keys. An automotive locksmith will usually be capable of making a replacement on the spot, but without the original. However, if you own an electronic key that relies on a proximity sensor to open the door or start the engine, you'll have to go to the dealership to get a replacement.
You must have a plan in place for the event that you lose your keys. This will save you the hassle of paying for the tow-truck or locksmith. If you're exhausted or distracted, it's not difficult to lose your car keys. If you follow these steps, you can ensure that your keys won't disappear forever, and you'll have backup plans in case they do.