How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the rush of sending kids to school, running errands, and working it is common for things to become lost. One of the most frequent items that go missing is the keys to our cars.
In the past, this wasn't an issue since you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. However, this isn't the case anymore.
1. Call Your Car Dealership
If you lose your car keys The first place you should contact is your local car dealer. The majority of car dealers keep a record of every key designed for their vehicles, so it should be easy for them to locate your keys. It can be costly to visit a dealer and you should shop around. You may be able to get a cheaper option by using an auto locksmith.
You will most likely need to provide the dealership with your vehicle identification number or VIN, along with evidence of ownership (such as a copy registration or title) to obtain a replacement key. The dealership will request a replacement key and pair it to your vehicle. This could be a long procedure, and you'll be waiting until the dealer has completed the task.
Many vehicles today have the special kind of key 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 push-to-start ignitions. The dealer will sell you a smart key, but it's costly. A local auto locksmith can design an intelligent key for you at a fraction of what you'd buy from the dealership.
You can also purchase a classic key replacement at your local hardware store. They can make an ordinary key that will fit the lock cylinder of your vehicle. They'll need to know the year of manufacture of your car and the VIN. If you're unable to find the VIN, it is usually printed on a metal plate located on the driver's side doorpost or dashboard. Even if you do not have the original, most locksmiths for automotive can provide you with an alternate car key. However, in certain instances they may have to remove the ignition and door locks to accomplish this. It's not a risky job, but it does require some knowledge of mechanics.
2. Call a Locksmith
Misplacing keys to your car is one of the most frequent reasons for roadside assistance and calls. It's essential to keep a spare key with you and ensure it's somewhere safe. However, even the most careful people may lose their car keys. It is important to thoroughly search for the key and notify your insurance company as quickly as possible to reduce the chances of getting denied a claim in the event that it turns up stolen later.
If you don't have a spare key, the best option is to contact a locksmith. Locksmiths are usually able to offer a replacement key for less than the dealership would cost. They will usually visit your location and make the key right there and is more convenient than having to bring your vehicle back to the dealership.
The cost of replacing your car key will vary based on the type you have. The most affordable keys are the traditional keys that are available at most hardware stores. They are about $10 per key. 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, which can only by replaced at a dealership, the price of these keys is typically more expensive than the standard one.
A locksmith can replace a smart key or key fob in the majority of cases as long as they have the VIN number of your vehicle. This is usually found on the metal plate that is on the driver's doorpost or on the windshield. They will also need evidence that you have ownership of the vehicle by providing a copy of your registration or title.
Always do your homework prior to hiring locksmith. You can find qualified auto-locksmiths by searching on the internet or asking family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using an unauthorized key to start your car could lead to a breach of warranty. Unauthorized keys can cause damage to the lock of your vehicle. If you don't want to risk it then call roadside assistance instead of a car locksmith and wait until the dealer provides a replacement key.
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 reason your situation. It is more likely that you lost your keys than they were stolen. So, the next step is to go back your steps and try to figure out where they disappeared. It's a good idea 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. After you've inspected these areas it is time to call your insurance company.
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that connect to your car via a chip. This communication allows the vehicle recognize the key fob, and then open the doors, and also start the engine. It is crucial to report the loss of your key immediately to prevent unauthorized individuals from utilizing your vehicle.
Certain insurance companies provide an extra benefit to their policy that will cover the cost of replacing a key for your car. It's worth talking to your insurance company to find out whether they provide this kind of protection or if you can locate an individual locksmith who will pay for the cost.
You can usually get a replacement for a mechanical key in many hardware stores for a fair price. However, if why not try this out has an electronic key fob that is linked to your vehicle via the chip, you'll have to visit your dealer for a replacement. It's expensive, but it is much cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.
In addition to the expense of replacing your car key, filing an insurance claim for the loss of a key can cause your insurance rates to increase. This is because the insurance company will view you as an extremely risky driver for the loss of your car keys, and may raise your premiums to offset the cost of settling an insurance claim. You can cut down on these additional expenses by purchasing an electronic device to track your lost keys or hiring a professional locksmith to create keys without copying the original one.
4. Call a tow truck
Everyone would hate to lose their car keys. It is the worst thing that can occur. If it does happen it could be costly to replace the key and get back on the road. It's important to be prepared in order that you don't need to call a tow truck and save your money.
If you've lost your car keys, the first step is to retrace your steps. This will help you figure out exactly where they are, and help you calm your anxiety. Try to remember what you did right before losing your keys, like grabbing something at the grocery store or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you find your place of origin.
If you are 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 when you came home. If you're still not able to locate them, give yourself some time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.
A bluetooth key tracker can also be utilized on your phone. These are small devices that can attach to a keyring and an app on your smartphone will display the location of your keys.
The cost of replacing a lost car keys can vary according to the type of key that you have. You can save money when you use traditional car keys. An automotive locksmith will usually be able to make a replacement on the spot, without the original. If you are using a smart-key that utilizes a proximity detector to open doors or turn on your car's engine then you'll need to visit the dealership to get a replacement.
You must have a plan in place for the event that you lose your keys. This will spare you the hassle of having to pay for the tow-truck or locksmith. It's easy to forget your car keys when you're tired after a long day, or when your attention is focused busy with other things. If you follow these suggestions to ensure that your keys won't vanish forever, and you have a backup plan when they do.