How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Things are often lost in the hustle of bringing kids to and from school, running errands, and working. One of the most frequently lost items that disappears is our keys to our car.
In the past, this was not an issue because you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. Today, it’s not as easy.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should contact if you lose your key. Most car dealers keep a record of every key made for their vehicles therefore it should be simple for them to find your keys. The downside is that going to the dealership can be expensive and it’s essential to look for a different one. You may be able locate a lower cost option through a locksmith for cars.
You’ll likely have to give the dealership your vehicle identification number, or VIN, along with proof of ownership (such as a copy registration or title) to obtain the replacement key. The dealership will then order the new key and then pair it with your vehicle. This can be a lengthy process, and you will need to wait until the dealer has completed the job.
Smart keys are a form of key that is utilized in a variety of cars in the present. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, allowing the use of a keyless entry system and even starting. They are usually used with ignitions that are push-to-start. The dealer will sell you a smart key however, it’s expensive. Local auto locksmiths can give you a smart key for less than the cost.
You can also get a replacement for lost car keys your classic key at your local hardware store. They will be able to make you a standard key that is compatible with your vehicle’s lock cylinder. They will need the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you cannot locate the VIN on your car, it will be stamped on a metal plaque that is placed on the dashboard or the driver’s doorpost. Most automotive locksmiths will be able to offer the replacement for your car key even if you don’t have the original. However, in some cases they might need to remove the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. This isn’t a risky job for a professional, but it requires some mechanical expertise and skills.
2. Call a Locksmith
The most frequent reason for roadside assistance is because you’ve lost your car keys. Keep an extra car key with you and store it in a safe place. Even the most careful people may lose their keys. You should look for the car key and inform your insurance provider immediately if you discover it. This will lower the chance of your claim being rejected later if your key is found stolen.
If you don’t have a spare key, the next best option is to call an locksmith. Locksmiths are usually able to provide a key replacement for less than what a dealership would cost. They will usually visit your place and create the key right there which is more efficient than having to take your vehicle back to the dealership.
The type of car key you have could affect the cost of replacing it. The most affordable keys are the standard keys that are available at most hardware stores. They are about $10 per key. If your car is equipped with keys lost that can be used as a remote for unlocking and start the car, or a smart-key, which can only by replaced at a dealership, the cost of these keys is usually more expensive than traditional keys.
In the majority of instances, an auto locksmith can replace a key fob or smart key if they can get the VIN number for your vehicle that is usually found on a metal plate on the driver’s side of the doorpost or etched into the windshield of your vehicle. They will also need proof that you own the car, such as an original registration or title.
It is essential to conduct your research prior to hiring a locksmith. You can find reputable auto locksmiths by searching online, or asking family and friends for suggestions. Be aware that using keys that are not yours to start the car can cause a breach of your vehicle’s warranty. Unauthorized keys can damage your car’s lock. If you do not wish to take this risk then contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith for your car and wait until the dealer delivers a new key.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Panic is one of the worst reactions you can be experiencing when you lose your key. Take a deep breath and then try to reason your situation. It is more likely that you lost your keys rather than they were stolen. The next step is to go back your steps and attempt to figure out the place they disappeared. You might want to check places that you wouldn’t normally look at, like the pockets of your pants or bags or coats you carry to run in. After you’ve looked in these places it is time to call your insurance provider.
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate via chips with the car. This communication allows the vehicle recognize the key fob and unlock the doors, as well as start the engine. It is crucial to immediately report the loss of your keys immediately to stop unauthorized persons from using your vehicle.
Certain insurance companies provide an additional benefit to their policies that will cover the cost of a replacement key for your car. Contact your insurance provider to see if this type of coverage is available or if a locksmith can pay for the costs.
It is possible to replace a mechanical key in many hardware stores for a reasonable cost. If, however, your car is equipped with an electronic key fob that’s connected to your car via the chip, you’ll need to go to your dealership to request a replacement. It can be costly but it’s also more cost-effective than hiring a locksmith.
In addition to the expense of replacing your car keys, filing an insurance claim for a stolen key can cause your car insurance rates to increase. Your insurance company could increase your premiums because they will consider you an extremely risky driver for losing your key. Fortunately, you can often avoid the extra expenses by purchasing a tracking device to track your lost car keys no spare car keys 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 no one wants to experience this. If it happens 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 have call a tow truck and keep your money.
If you’ve lost your car keys, the first thing to do is trace your steps. This will allow you to locate them and calm your panic. Try to recall what you did right before losing your keys, for example, picking up something from the grocery store or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you pinpoint your place of origin.
If you are unable to locate your keys, check places you might have placed them, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or in the bag that you used to carry them home. If you are unable to find them, take a few minutes to relax, and then call a locksmith or tow truck.
A bluetooth key tracker can also be used with your phone. These are small devices that you can attach to your keyring and have an app installed on your phone that can let you know where your keys are so you don’t have to go through every drawer or pocket in your house.
The cost of replacing lost car key can be a bit expensive dependent on the type of key that you have. You could save money in the case of traditional car keys. An automotive locksmith is usually in a position to create a new key on the spot, without the original. If you have an electronic key that utilizes the proximity sensor to open the door or turn on the engine, you’ll have go to the dealer to get a replacement.
It is important to have a plan for when you lose your keys. This will save you the hassle of paying 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 mind is distracted by other things. However, by following these steps, lost car keys you can make sure that your keys don’t vanish forever and have a backup plan when they do.