How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the shuffle of taking kids to school, running errands, and working things tend to get lost. One of the most common items that disappears is the car keys.
In the past, you could easily replace this at your local locksmith or hardware store. This is not the situation anymore.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should contact in case you lose your key. The majority of car dealers keep a record of every key that is designed for their vehicles, making it easy for them to find yours. The drawback is that going to the dealership can be costly, so it's important to shop around. You may be able get a lower price through an automotive locksmith.
In the majority of instances, you'll need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, such as a copy of your title or registration, to obtain an alternative key from the dealer. The dealership will request a replacement key and pair it to your vehicle. The dealer will need to complete this lengthy procedure.
Many vehicles today are equipped with keys that are specialized known as a smart keys. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor inside the vehicle, which allows for keyless entry and start. They are usually used with ignitions that require a push-to start. The dealer can sell you a smart key, however, it's expensive. A local auto locksmith can make a smart key for you at a fraction of what you'd purchase from a dealership.
You can also get a replacement for your key with a new one at the local hardware store. They will be able to make you a standard key that is compatible with the lock cylinder in your car. They will need to know the model year of your car and the VIN. If you can't locate the VIN, it is usually stamped on a metal plate found on the driver's doorpost or dashboard. The majority of locksmiths for automotive will be able to provide you with a car key replacement, even if you don't have the original. In some instances they may have to remove the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. This is not a hazardous job, but it does require some mechanical knowledge.
2. Contact a Locksmith
The misplacing of your car keys is one of the most frequent reasons for roadside assistance and calls. Keep a spare car key with you and store it safely. Even the most careful people could lose their keys. You should check for the car key and inform your insurance company immediately if you discover it. This will reduce the chance of your claim being rejected later if your key is found stolen.
Contacting a locksmith is the next best thing when you don't have a spare. Locksmiths can usually provide a replacement key at less than what the dealership will charge. They can also visit your location to create the key on the spot, which is more convenient than having your vehicle brought back to the dealer.
The cost of replacing your car key will vary based on the type you own. The most affordable keys are traditional keys that are available at many hardware stores. They cost about $10 per key. If your car has a key fob, which functions as a remote and allows you to open and start the engine, or a smart key that can only be replaced by a dealership, these keys will usually cost more than the traditional key.
In the majority of instances, an automotive locksmith can replace a key fob or smart key if they can get the VIN number for your vehicle, which is typically found on a metal plate on your driver's side doorpost or etched into the windshield of the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership, like your registration or title.
Always do your research before hiring a locksmith. You can find qualified auto-locksmiths by searching online, or asking family and friends for suggestions. Be aware that using keys you have not authorized to start the car can result in a breach of your vehicle's warranty. The use of keys that are not authorized could cause damage to your car's lock. If you don't want to take this risk, it is best to call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith for cars and wait until your dealer provides a replacement key.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Panic is one of the most unpleasant reactions you could be experiencing when you lose your key. The first thing you should do is take an inhale and try to think about the situation. It is more likely you lost your keys than they were stolen. The next step is to retrace the steps you took and try to locate the location where your keys went missing. You might want to check areas you're not usually checking such as the pockets of your pants, coat or a bag you carry to run in. After you've inspected all of these areas, it's a good idea contact your insurance company.
Modern cars come with electronic keys that communicate with a chip with the car. This process of communication allows the vehicle to recognize and unlock the doors, and also start the engine. If you lose your key It is crucial to report it immediately to ensure that anyone who isn't authorized can't enter your car and use it.
Some insurance companies offer an extra benefit to their policy that will cover the cost of a replacement car key. It's worth talking to your insurance company to find out whether they provide this kind of insurance or if you can find an individual locksmith that will pay for the cost.
You can usually replace a mechanical key in many hardware stores for a reasonable price. If, however, your car is equipped with an electronic key fob that's connected to your car via the chip, you'll have go to the dealership to get a replacement. It can be costly but it's cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.
Filing an insurance claim due to a stolen car key can increase your insurance rates. Your insurance company could increase your premiums as they'll consider you to be an extremely risky driver in the event of losing your key. Fortunately, you can often avoid the extra expenses by purchasing a tracking device to locate your car key that has been lost or having a locksmith create an entirely new key without copying the original.
4. Contact a Tow truck
Everyone would hate to lose their car keys. It is the worst scenario that could happen. If it happens it could cost a lot to replace the key and get back on the road. It's why it's important to be prepared for when it happens, so that you don't have to call a tow truck, and keep your cash in your wallet.
Follow your steps if you've lost your keys. This will help you locate the keys and calm your panic. Make a list of 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 to find your starting point.
If you're unable to locate your keys, look around where they might be like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing or the bag you put them in after you returned home. If you're still not able to locate them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.
A key tracker bluetooth can also be used with your phone. These are small devices that can attach to a keyring and an app on your smartphone will show you the whereabouts of your keys.
i lost the key to my car of replacing a lost car keys can vary dependent on the type of key you own. It is cheaper when you use traditional car keys. A locksmith for automotive will typically be able to make a replacement immediately, and without the original. If you are using a smart-key that utilizes proximity sensors to open doors or turn on the engine of your car it is necessary go to the dealer to purchase a new one.
It is important to have a plan in case you lose your keys. This will spare you the expense of a tow-truck or locksmith. It's easy to forget your car keys when you're exhausted after a long work day or when your attention is focused on other things. If you follow these suggestions you can ensure that your keys won't vanish forever and have a backup plan for the event that they do.