How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Things can get lost in the hustle of bringing kids to and from school, running errands, and working. Our car keys are one of the most commonly lost items.
In the past you could easily change this at the local locksmith or hardware store. This isn't the situation anymore.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
If you lose your car key, the first place you should call is your car dealer. The majority of dealers keep a record of each key they make for their cars, so they should be able to find yours. It can be costly to go to a dealership and therefore, you should shop around. You might be able to get a lower price by using an auto locksmith.
You'll likely have to provide the dealership with your vehicle identification number or VIN, as well as proof of ownership (such as a copy of registration or title) to receive an alternative key. The dealership will then request the new key and then pair it with your vehicle. This can be a lengthy procedure, and you'll need to wait for the dealer to finish the job.
Smart keys are a form of key used in many cars in the present. These keys are designed to use proximity sensors to be activated inside the car, allowing keyless entry and starting. 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 high. Local auto locksmiths can make you a smart key at only a fraction of the cost.
You can also purchase a replacement for your classic key at the local hardware store. They can make you the standard lock cylinder keys. They will need to know the year of manufacture of your vehicle, as well as the VIN. If you cannot locate the VIN on your car, it will be stamped on a plaque made of metal that is located on the dashboard or driver's doorpost. The majority of locksmiths for automotive will be able to offer the replacement for your car key even if they don't have the original. In some instances the locksmith may need to take apart the door lock and ignition in order to complete the task. This is not a risky job for a professional, however it requires some mechanical knowledge and skill.
2. Contact a Locksmith
Losing keys to your car is one of the most common reasons for roadside assistance and calls. Keep a spare car key with you and store it in a safe place. However even the most cautious people may lose their car keys. You should look for the car keys and inform your insurance provider immediately if you spot it. This will reduce the chance of your claim being denied if your key is found stolen.
If you don't have a spare key, your next best option is to call the locksmith. Locksmiths usually can offer a replacement key for less than what a dealership would charge. They can also come to your home to make the key on the spot which is easier than having your car brought back to the dealer.
The type of car key that you have can affect the cost to replace it. Traditional keys are able to be replaced at most hardware stores for $10 each and are the cheapest. If your vehicle is equipped with a key fob that can be used as a remote to unlock and start the vehicle or a smart-key that can only by replaced at a dealership, the price of these keys is usually more expensive than the standard one.
A locksmith can replace keys that are smart or fob in most cases so long they have the VIN number of your vehicle. It is usually located on the metal plate on the driver's doorpost, or on the windshield. They will also need evidence that you own the car by providing an original registration or title.
Some locksmiths aren't licensed or insured, so be sure to research them before hiring. You can find qualified auto-locksmiths by searching on the internet or asking family members and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using a fake key to start your vehicle could result in a breach of warranty. Using unauthorized keys may also cause damage to your car's lock. If you do not want to take this risk you should call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith for your car and wait until the dealer sends out a replacement key.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
One of the worst things you could do when you lose your car keys is to panic. Relax, and then try to think about your situation. It is likely that you lost your keys due to you misplaced them instead of them being taken. The next step is to go back through the steps you took and try to determine the place where your keys went missing. You might want to check places you don't normally check like the pockets of your pants, bag or coat that you use for running. After you've checked these places, you should call your insurance provider.
Most modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that connect to your vehicle via chip. This communication allows the vehicle recognize the key fob and open the doors, and start the engine. It is essential to inform the authorities of the loss of your key immediately to prevent anyone who is not authorized from using your vehicle.
Certain car insurance companies offer an add-on to their policies that will cover the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. Contact your insurance provider to find out if this type of coverage is available or if an individual locksmith will cover the costs.
If your car is equipped with a standard mechanical key, you'll be able to have it replaced at most hardware stores for a small fee. If your car uses an electronic key that connects with your vehicle using the chip, you will have to visit your dealer to obtain an replacement. It can be costly however it's cheaper than hiring locksmith.
Filing an insurance claim due to a car key that was stolen can increase your insurance rates. This is because your insurance company will consider you high-risk driver for loosing your car key, and may raise your premiums in order to offset the cost of settling an insurance claim. You can reduce these cost by buying a tracking device that will locate your lost key or hiring a professional locksmith to create keys without copying the original one.
4. Contact towing truck
It's one of the most difficult things to lose your car keys, and nobody wants to see it happen. If it does happen it could be costly to replace the lost key and get you back on the road. It's essential 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 first thing to do is retrace your steps. This will help you figure out exactly where they are and help calm your panic. Try to remember what you did right before losing your keys, such as grabbing something at the supermarket or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you to determine where you should start.
If you can't find your keys, check places where they might be like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing or the bag you put them in when you came home. If you are unable to find them, take a moment to relax and then call a locksmith or tow truck.
Another alternative is to use a bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are tiny devices that you can attach to a keyring, and an app on your smartphone will provide you with the whereabouts of your keys.
The cost to replace the car key that has been lost can differ based on the type of key you own. car keys lost no spare could save money if you have an old-fashioned car key. An automotive locksmith will typically be in a position to create a new key immediately, and without the original. However, if you own an electronic key that utilizes a proximity sensor to open the door or turn on 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 that you will not have the hassle of having to pay for the tow truck or locksmith. When you're tired or distracted, it's not difficult to lose your car keys. By following these tips you can make sure that your keys don't disappear forever, and have an alternative plan in case they do.