How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Things are often lost in the rush of bringing children to and from school, running errands, and working. One of the most frequent items that go missing is the keys to our cars.
In the past you could easily replace this at your local hardware or locksmith store. This is not the situation anymore.
1. Call Your Car Dealership
If you have lost your car keys The first place you should contact is your dealer. Most car dealers keep a record of every key made for their vehicles, making it easy for them to locate your key. The drawback is that going to the dealership can be expensive, so it's important to shop for a different one. You may be able get a lower price by using an auto locksmith.
It is likely that you will need to give the dealership your vehicle identification number or VIN, as well as evidence of ownership (such as a copy registration or title) to get an alternative key. lost keys to car will then purchase the new key and then pair it with your vehicle. This could be a long procedure, and you'll be waiting for the dealer to complete the job.
Many vehicles today have keys that are specialized called a smart key. These keys are designed to use a proximity sensor that can be activated inside the car, which allows keyless entry and starting. They are typically used in conjunction with push-to-start ignitions. You can purchase a brand new smart key from a dealership, but the cost is very expensive. A local auto locksmith can create an intelligent key for you for about half the cost of what you would pay at the dealership.
You can also purchase a traditional key replacement from a 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 stamped on a metal plaque located on the dashboard or the driver's doorpost. Most automotive locksmiths can provide you with a car key replacement, even if you don't have the original. However, in certain instances, they may need to remove the door lock and ignition to do so. It is not a dangerous task, but it requires some technical knowledge.
2. Contact for a locksmith
The most common reason for seeking roadside assistance is when you've lost your car keys. It's important to keep a spare key on you and ensure you keep it in a safe place. However even the most cautious people may lose their car keys. It is important to look for the car keys and notify your insurance company immediately if you spot it. This will decrease the chances of your claim being rejected later if your key is found stolen.
If you don't have a spare key, the best option is to contact an locksmith. Locksmiths can usually provide a replacement key at less than what the dealership would charge. They can also come to your home to make the key right there which is much more convenient than having your vehicle taken back to the dealer.
The cost of replacing your car key will vary based on the type you own. Keys with traditional designs are able to be replaced at the majority of hardware stores for around $10 each and are the cheapest. 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, which can only be replaced by an auto dealer and will typically cost more than a traditional key.
A locksmith can replace keys that are smart or fob in most cases as long as they have the VIN number of your car. This number is typically found on the metal plate on the driver's doorpost or stamped on the windshield. lost key of car will require proof of ownership, like your registration or title.
Some locksmiths aren't licensed or insured, so be sure to do your research prior to hiring. You can find qualified auto-locksmiths through online search engines, or asking family and friends for suggestions. Also, be aware that using keys you have not authorized to start the car can lead to the breach of your vehicle's warranty. The use of a key that is not authentic could cause damage to the lock on your car. If you don't want to risk it is a good idea to call 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 keys is to panic. Take a deep breath, and then try to think about your situation. It is likely that you lost your keys because you misplaced them instead of them being stolen. The next step is to retrace the steps you followed and try to determine the place where your keys went missing. It might help to check places you wouldn't usually check for items, like pockets on your coat or pants or in the bag you carry around when you run. After you've looked in these places it is time to call your insurance company.
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate via a 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 crucial to notify the police immediately to ensure that anyone who isn't authorized can't enter your car and use it.
Certain car insurance companies offer an insurance add-on that covers the cost of replacing a lost car key. It's worth checking with your insurance provider to see if they offer this type of protection or if you can find an individual locksmith who will cover the cost.
You can usually replace the mechanical key at most hardware stores at a reasonable price. However, if your car has an electronic key fob that's linked to your vehicle via the chip, you'll have to go to your dealership to get the replacement. It's not cheap however it's much cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.
Making an insurance claim because of the theft of your car key could increase your insurance premiums. Your insurance company could raise your premiums due to the fact that they'll consider you to be an extremely risky driver in the event of losing your key. Fortunately, you can reduce the costs by buying a tracking device that can track your lost car keys or having a locksmith make an entirely new key without copying the original.
4. Call a Tow truck
No one wants to lose their car keys. It's the worst thing that could occur. If it happens it could be costly to replace keys and get back on the road. That's why it's best to be prepared if it happens, so that you can avoid having to call an tow truck and keep your cash in your wallet.
Retrace your steps if you've lost your keys. This will help you find them and calm your panic. You may remember doing something in the grocery store or dropping your keys on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you to identify your starting point.
If you cannot find your keys, check places where you could have put them, such as the pockets of the clothing you were wearing, or in the bag that you used to carry them to home. If you're unable to locate them, take a few minutes to relax before calling 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 your keyring and have an app on your phone that can let you know where your keys are, so you don't have to look through every pocket or drawer within your home.
The cost of replacing lost car key can be a bit expensive dependent on the type of key you have. You could save money in the case of a traditional car key. A locksmith for automotive will typically be in a position to create a new key on the spot, but without the original. If you have a smart-key that uses a proximity detector to open doors or start the engine of your vehicle it is necessary to visit a dealership to obtain a replacement.
It's important to have a plan in place for when you lose your car keys, so that you can save yourself the headache of having to pay for a tow truck or a 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 an alternative plan in the event that they do.