How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Things can get lost in the hustle of bringing kids to and from school, completing errands and working. One of the most frequent items that disappears is our keys to our cars.
In the past, you could easily replace this at your local locksmith or hardware store. This isn't the situation anymore.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
If you've lost your car keys The first place to contact is your car dealer. The majority of dealers keep records of every key that they have made for their vehicles, so they are likely to be able find your key. It is expensive to visit a dealership and therefore, you should shop around. You may be able to find a cheaper solution by using an auto locksmith.
In most cases, you will need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, such as a copy of the registration or title, to obtain an alternative key from the dealer. The dealership will then request an additional key and connect it with your vehicle. This could be a long process, and you will have to wait for the dealer to finish the process.
A lot of cars today have the special kind of key called a smart key. These keys are designed for proximity sensors to be activated inside the car, allowing keyless entry and start. They are usually paired with push-to-start ignitions. You can purchase a new smart key from a dealership, but the price is a bit expensive. Local auto locksmiths can make you a smart key for less than the cost.
You can also purchase a replacement for the key you have always had at the local hardware store. They can design a standard lock cylinder key. They will require the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you cannot locate the VIN on your vehicle, it will be stamped on a metal plaque that is placed on the dashboard or the driver's doorpost. The majority of locksmiths for automotive will be able to offer an alternative car key even if you don't have the original. In some instances they might need to take apart the ignition and door locks to accomplish this. This is not a hazardous job, but it does require some knowledge of mechanics.
2. Call car keys lost for seeking roadside assistance is that you have lost your car keys. It's essential to keep a spare key on your person and ensure that you keep it in a safe place. However even the most vigilant people may lose their car keys. It is important to look for the car key and notify your insurance company immediately if you find it. This will reduce the chance of your claim being denied if your key is found stolen.
Calling a locksmith is the best option in the event that you don't have an extra. A locksmith can generally provide a replacement key at less than the dealership will charge. They can also come to your location to create keys right there which is easier than having your car brought back to the dealer.
The type of car key you are using can impact the cost of replacing it. Keys that are traditional that can be exchanged at the majority of hardware stores for around $10 each they are the least expensive. 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 an auto dealer, the cost of these keys is typically more expensive than the standard one.
A locksmith can replace the smart key or key fob in the majority of cases as long they have the VIN number of your vehicle. This number is typically found on the metal plate on the driver's doorpost or on the windshield. They will also need proof that you own the car, such as the 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 members and friends for recommendations. Also, be aware that using keys you have not authorized 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 on your car. If you do not wish to take this risk you should contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith for your car and wait until your dealer provides a replacement key.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Panic is among the most negative reactions you can experience when you lose your keys. The first thing to do is to take a deep breath and try to think about the situation. Chances are that you lost your keys due to you misplaced them, instead of them being stolen. The next step is to retrace the steps you took and attempt to locate where your keys went missing. You might want to check places that you wouldn't normally look at like the pockets of your pants, or a coat or a bag you carry for running. Once you've checked all of these areas, it's a good idea contact your insurance company.
Modern cars come with electronic keys that communicate via an electronic chip with the car. This communication lets the car recognize the key fob and open the doors, and also start the engine. If you lose your key it is important to notify the police immediately so that unauthorized people can't enter your car and use it.
Some insurance companies offer an add-on to their policy that covers the cost of a replacement key for your car. It's worth checking with your insurance provider to determine whether they have this type of protection or if you can find an individual locksmith who will pay for the cost.
If your car has the standard mechanical key, you can replace it at a variety of hardware stores for a small fee. If your car is equipped with an electronic key that is paired to your car via the chip, you will have to visit the dealership to obtain an replacement. This can be costly but it's also cheaper than hiring locksmith.
Filing an insurance claim because of a stolen car key can increase your insurance rates. Your insurance company could increase your premiums as they will consider you a high-risk driver because you lost your key. You can avoid these extra costs by purchasing a tracking device that will locate your lost key or hiring a professional locksmith to design keys without copying the old one.
4. Call a tow truck
Nobody wants to lose their car keys. It's the most embarrassing scenario that could happen. If it does happen it could be costly to replace keys and get back on the road. It's important to be prepared in order 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 remember the actions you took prior to losing your keys, for example, picking up something from the supermarket or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you pinpoint your place of origin.
If you're 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're still unable to locate the keys, give yourself time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.
A bluetooth key tracker can also be used on your phone. These are small devices that can attach to a keyring and an app for your smartphone will show you the location of your keys.
The cost of replacing a lost car keys can vary dependent on the type of key that you own. If you own a traditional key that is used for automotive, a locksmith can usually make a new one immediately without the original one, which will save you some money. If you have a smart key that uses proximity sensors to open the door or turn on the engine, you'll need go to the dealer to purchase a new one.
You must have a plan in case you lose your keys. This will spare you the hassle of paying for the tow-truck or locksmith. If you're exhausted or distracted, it's easy 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.