How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the shuffle of sending kids to school, running errands and working things tend to get lost. Car keys are among of the most commonly lost items.
In the past, this wasn't an issue since you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. Today, it's not as easy.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
If you lose your car keys The first person to contact is your car dealer. The majority of dealers keep a record of every key made for their vehicles, so they should be able to find yours. The drawback is that visiting the dealership can be expensive so it's crucial to shop around. You may be able locate a lower cost option through an automotive locksmith.
In the majority of cases, you will need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and evidence of ownership, such as an original title or registration, to get a replacement key from the dealership. The dealership will then order an alternative key and connect it to your vehicle. This could be a long procedure, and you'll be waiting for the dealer to complete the process.
Many vehicles today have a special type of key called a smart key. These keys are designed for a proximity sensor to be activated inside the car, which allows keyless entry and start. They are typically used in conjunction with ignitions that are push-to-start. Dealers will offer you a smart key, but it is expensive. A local auto locksmith can make an intelligent key for you at a fraction of what you would purchase from a dealership.
You can also get a classic key replacement from your local hardware store. They can create an ordinary lock cylinder key. They will require the VIN and the model year. If you can't find the VIN on your car it will be stamped on a metal plaque that is placed on the dashboard or driver's doorpost. Even if you do not have the original, many locksmiths for automotive will be able to provide you with a replacement car key. In some instances the locksmith might need to take apart the ignition and door locks to accomplish this. This is not a dangerous job for a professional, however it will require some mechanical expertise and skills.
2. Contact a Locksmith
Losing your car keys is one of the most common causes for roadside assistance or callouts. Keep a spare car key with you and store it safely. Even the most careful of people could lose their keys. It is essential to search thoroughly for the key and notify your insurance company as soon as possible to reduce the chances of getting denied a claim if it happens to be stolen later.
Contacting a locksmith is the next best option when you don't have an extra key. Locksmiths usually can provide a key replacement for less than the cost a dealership would charge. They can also visit your home to make the key on the spot which is easier than having your vehicle brought back to the dealer.
The type of car key you have can affect the cost of replacing it. Traditional keys that can be exchanged at most hardware stores for $10 each and are the cheapest. If your car comes 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 cost of these keys will be more expensive than traditional keys.
A locksmith can replace the smart key or key fob in most cases as long they have the VIN number of your car. It is usually located on the metal plaque on the driver's doorpost or on the windshield. They will require proof of ownership, like your registration or title.
It is essential to do your research before hiring locksmith. You can find reputable 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. The use of keys that are not authorized could cause damage to the lock of your vehicle. If you don't want to take this risk, it is best to call roadside help instead of a locksmith for your car and wait until the dealer provides a replacement key.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
One of the most dangerous 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 rather than they were stolen. The next step is to retrace your steps and attempt to find out the location where they were lost. You may want to look in areas you're not usually checking, like the pockets of your pants, or a bags or coats that you use for running. After you've inspected these areas it is time to call your insurance provider.
Most modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs which communicate with your car through chips. This allows the car to recognize the key fob and open the doors, and also start the engine. It's important that you inform the authorities of the loss of your key immediately to prevent anyone who is not authorized from utilizing your vehicle.
Certain car insurance companies offer an add-on to their policies that covers the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. It is worth contacting your insurance provider to determine whether they provide this kind of protection or if they can locate an individual locksmith that will cover the cost.
You can usually replace the mechanical key at most hardware stores at a reasonable cost. If your car has an electronic key that connects to your vehicle via the chip, then you'll have to visit your dealer to obtain an alternative. It can be costly but it's cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.
In addition to the cost of replacing your car key, filing an insurance claim to replace a lost key could cause your car insurance rates to rise. This is because your insurance provider will view you as high-risk driver for loosing your car keys and could increase your premiums in order to offset the cost of making the claim. Fortunately, you can reduce the costs by buying a tracking device that can track your lost car key or having a locksmith create an entirely new key without copying the original.
4. Contact a Tow Truck
Nobody wants to lose their car keys. It's the most embarrassing thing that could happen. If it does happen, it can be expensive to replace keys and get back on the road. This is why it's important to be prepared in case it happens, so you can avoid having to call a tow truck and keep your cash in your wallet.
When you've lost your car keys, the first thing to do is retrace your steps. This will help you find them and calm your panic. You may remember doing something in the grocery store or putting your keys on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you find your starting point.
If you are unable to locate your keys, check places where they might be, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing or the bag you put them in when you got home. If lost keys for car no spare to locate them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.
A key tracker with bluetooth can be utilized on your phone. These are tiny devices can be attached to your keyring and use an app on your phone to let you know where your keys are so you don't need to search every pocket or drawer within your home.
The cost of replacing a lost car keys can vary dependent on the type of key that you own. If you have a traditional key, an automotive locksmith can typically make a new one in a matter of minutes without the original one, which can save you money. If you have a smart-key that uses proximity sensors to open doors or start the engine of your car, you will need to visit a dealership to obtain a replacement.
It is important to have a plan in place for the event that you lose your keys. This will help you avoid the expense of a tow-truck or locksmith. When you're stressed or distracted, it's not difficult to lose your keys to your car. By following these guidelines, you can make sure that your keys don't disappear forever, and you'll have backup plans in case they do.