How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Things tend to get lost in the chaos of getting children to and from school, running errands, and working. One of the most common items that disappears is our keys to our cars.
In the past you could easily change this at the local locksmith or hardware store. However, nowadays, it isn't as easy.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should call if you lose your key. The majority of dealers keep records of every key made for their vehicles, so they will be able to locate your key. It can be costly to visit a dealer and therefore, you should research. You may be able to get a lower price by using an auto locksmith.
In the majority of instances, you'll need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, like a copy of your title or registration, to get a replacement key from the dealer. The dealership will order an alternative key and connect it with your vehicle. This could be a long process, and you'll be waiting for the dealer to complete the process.
Smart keys are a form of key used in many cars today. They are designed to activate a proximity sensor inside the vehicle, allowing the use of a keyless entry system and even starting. They are usually used with push-to-start ignitions. You can purchase a brand new smart key at the dealership, but the price is quite high. A local auto locksmith can create the smart key at a fraction of what you would purchase from a dealership.
You can also replace the key you have always had at your local hardware store. They can make you a standard key that fits the lock cylinder in your car. They'll need the model year of your vehicle and the VIN. If you're unable to find the VIN it's typically printed on a metal plate that is located on the driver's side doorpost or dashboard. The majority of locksmiths for automotive are able to provide you with the replacement for your car key even if they don't have the original. However, in certain instances, they may need to remove the ignition and door locks to do so. It's not a risky task, but it requires some mechanical knowledge.
2. Contact an expert locksmith
Losing your car keys is one of the most frequent reasons for roadside assistance or callouts. Keep a spare car key in your bag and store it in a safe place. However, even the most careful people can lose their car keys. You should check for the car key and inform your insurance company immediately if you find it. This will decrease the likelihood of your claim being denied later if your key is found stolen.
Contacting a locksmith is the next best thing in the event that you don't have a spare. Locksmiths are usually able to provide a replacement key for less than what the dealership would charge. They can also come to your home to make keys right there which is much more convenient than having your vehicle taken back to the dealer.
The cost of replacing your car keys will differ based on the kind of key you have. The most affordable keys are traditional keys that are available at many hardware stores. They are about $10 per key. If your car comes with an ignition key that can be used as a remote to lock and start the car, or a smart-key, which is only able to be replaced at a dealership, the cost of these keys is usually more expensive than the standard one.
A locksmith can replace a smart key or key fob in most cases so long they have the VIN number of your car. This number is typically found on the metal plate that is on the driver's doorpost, or on the windshield. They will also need proof that you own the car and have a copy of your registration or title.
You should always do your homework prior to hiring locksmith. You can find qualified auto locksmiths by searching online or asking your family and friends for suggestions. Be aware that using keys you have not authorized to start the car can result in a breach of the warranty on your vehicle. Using unauthorized key may also cause damage to the lock on your car. If you aren't willing to risk it, it's a good idea to call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith and wait for your replacement key from the dealer.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Panic is one of the most unpleasant reactions you could have when you lose your key. The first step is to take an inhale and try to understand the situation. It is more likely you misplaced your keys than they were stolen. The next step is to go back through the steps you took and attempt to determine where your keys went missing. It could be helpful to look in places you don't normally look for items, like the pockets of your coat or pants or in the bag you use when you run. After you've looked in these places it is time to call your insurance company.
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys which communicate with your car through chips. This communication lets the car recognize the key fob, and then open the doors, as well as start the engine. If you lose your key it is important to report this immediately to ensure that anyone who isn't authorized don't get into your car and use it.
Certain car insurance companies offer a policy add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost car key. Contact your insurance provider to determine if this kind of coverage is available or if an individual locksmith will cover the costs.
You can usually get a replacement for a mechanical key in most hardware stores at a reasonable cost. However, if your car is equipped with an electronic key fob that's paired with your car through the chip, you'll need go to the dealership for the replacement. It can be costly but it's cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.
In the event of filing an insurance claim because of a car key that was stolen can increase your insurance premiums. This is because your insurance provider will view you as an extremely risky driver for the loss of your car key and could increase your premiums to offset the cost of paying out an insurance claim. Fortunately, you can often reduce the costs by purchasing a tracking device to track your lost car key or letting a locksmith design a new key without cloning the original.
4. Contact a Tow truck
It's the most gruelling thing to lose your car keys and nobody wants it to happen. If it does happen it can be expensive to replace the lost key and get back on the road again. It's why it's important to be prepared if it happens, so that you can avoid having to call a tow truck and keep your money in your wallet.
Retrace your steps in case you've lost your keys. This will allow you to locate 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 lost key replacement car can't locate your keys, check places you might have placed them, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or the bag that you used to carry them home. If you can't locate them, take some time to relax and then call a locksmith or a tow truck.
A key tracker with bluetooth can be used on your phone. These are small devices that can connect to a keyring and an app on your phone will show you the location of your keys.
The cost to replace a lost car key can vary depending on what kind of key you have. You can save money when you use a traditional car key. An automotive locksmith is usually able to make a replacement on the spot, but 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, you will need to visit the dealership to obtain a replacement.
It's essential to have a plan for when you lose your car keys, so that you can avoid the hassle of having to pay for an tow truck or locksmith. When you're tired or distracted, it's not difficult to lose your keys to your car. But by following these tips, you can make sure that your keys won't vanish for ever and have a backup plan the event that they do.