How To Replace Lost Car Key to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the hustle of sending kids to school, running errands and working, things have a tendency to become lost. Car keys are among of the most frequently lost items.
In the past, this was not an issue because you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. This isn't the case anymore.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
If you lose your car key, the first place you should contact is your car dealer. The majority of car dealers keep track of every key designed for their vehicles, making it easy for them to locate your key. It is expensive to visit a dealer and you should look around. You may be able get a lower price by using an auto locksmith.
You'll likely have to give the dealership your vehicle identification number or VIN, along with proof of ownership (such as a copy of registration or title) to get the replacement key. The dealership will request a replacement key and pair it with your vehicle. The dealer must complete this lengthy process.
Smart keys are a kind of key that is used in a lot of automobiles today. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, which allows for keyless entry and start. They are usually paired with ignitions that are push-to-start. You can purchase a new smart key at the dealership, but the price is quite expensive. A local auto locksmith can design the smart key for about half the cost of what you'd buy from the dealership.
You can also get a traditional key replacement from your local hardware store. They will be able to create a standard key that fits your vehicle's lock cylinder. They'll need the model year of your car and also the VIN. If you can't find the VIN on your car it will be engraved on a metal plaque located on the dashboard or driver's doorpost. Most locksmiths in the automotive industry 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 disassemble the door lock and ignition to do so. It is not a dangerous task, but it requires some knowledge of mechanics.
2. Call a Locksmith
Losing keys to your car is one of the most common reasons for roadside assistance or callouts. It's important to keep a spare key on your person and ensure that it's somewhere safe. Even the most careful of people may lose their keys. It's important to check thoroughly for the keys and inform your insurance company as quickly as you can to minimize the chance of being denied a claim if the key turns up stolen later.
If you don't have a spare key, your next best option is to call an locksmith. Locksmiths can usually offer a replacement key for less than what the dealership would cost. They can also usually come out to your location and create the key on the spot which is more efficient than having to take your vehicle back to the dealership.
The cost of replacing your car keys will vary based on the model you have. Keys that are traditional are able to be replaced at the majority of hardware stores for around $10 each they are the least expensive. If your car comes with an ignition key that can be used as a remote for unlocking and start the vehicle, or a smart-key, which can only be replaced at a dealership, the cost of these keys is usually higher than the traditional one.
A locksmith can replace a smart key or key fob in most cases so long as they have the VIN number for your vehicle. It is usually located on the metal plaque on the driver's doorpost or on the windshield. They will require evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
It is essential to conduct your research 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 a fake key to start your vehicle could result in a breach of warranty. Using unauthorized keys may also damage your car's lock. If you do not want to risk it then call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith for cars 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. The first thing to do is take a deep breath and try to think about the situation. Chances are 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 attempt to determine where your keys went missing. It may help to check places you don't normally look, such as pockets in your pants or coat or in a bag you use when you run. After you've looked through all of these areas it's a good idea to call your insurance company.
Modern cars are fitted with electronic keys that communicate with your vehicle via a chip. This communication process allows the car to recognize and unlock the doors, and also start the engine. If you lose your key, it's important to report it immediately to ensure that people who are not authorized can't enter your car and use it.
Some insurance companies offer an add-on to their policy that covers the cost of a replacement car key. Contact your insurance provider to find out if this type of coverage is offered or if an individual locksmith will cover the costs.
It is possible to replace the mechanical key at most hardware stores at a reasonable cost. However, if your car has an electronic key fob that is paired with your car through the chip, you'll need to go to your dealership to get an upgrade. This can be costly but it's also more cost-effective than hiring locksmith.
In the event of filing an insurance claim because of the theft of your car key could increase your insurance costs. Your insurance company could increase your premiums as they'll view you as a high-risk driver because you lost your key. Fortunately, you can save yourself the cost of purchasing a device to track your lost car keys or having a locksmith create an entirely new key without copying the original.
4. Call a Tow Truck
Nobody wants to lose their car keys. It is the worst scenario that could happen. If it does happen, repair it can be expensive to replace keys and get back on the road. It's why it's important to be prepared for when it happens, so that you won't need to call a tow truck and keep your money in your wallet.
Retrace your steps if you've lost your keys. This will allow you to locate them and ease your anxiety. You might recall doing something at the supermarket or dropping your keys on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you determine your place of origin.
If you can't find your keys, check places in which they could be, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing or the bag you put them in when you came home. If you're unable to locate them, take some time to relax, and then call a locksmith or a tow truck.
A bluetooth key tracker can also be used on your phone. These are small devices you can attach to a keyring, and an app for your smartphone will show you the location of your keys.
The cost of replacing a lost car key can be a bit expensive dependent on the type of key you have. You can save money in the case of traditional car keys. An automotive locksmith is usually able to make a replacement on the spot, but without the original. If you have a smart key that uses proximity sensors to open doors or start your car's engine it is necessary to visit a dealership to purchase a new one.
It is essential to have a plan to deal with the loss of your car keys, so you can save yourself the headache of having to pay for an tow truck or locksmith. It's easy to lose your car keys when you're tired after a long day, or when your attention is focused on other things. However, by following these steps to ensure that your keys won't vanish forever, and you have a backup plan for the event that they do.