How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Things tend to get lost in the hustle of bringing kids to and from school, running errands and working. Car keys are among of the most commonly lost items.
In the past you could easily replace this at your local locksmith or hardware store. Nowadays, that is not as simple.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
If you've lost your car key The first place to contact is your local car dealer. Most car dealers keep track of each key made for their vehicles making it easy for them to locate yours. It's expensive to visit a dealership, so you should look around. You may be able to locate a lower cost option by using an auto locksmith.
You will most likely need to give the dealership your vehicle identification number or VIN, and proof of ownership (such as a copy of registration or title) to obtain the replacement key. The dealership will order a replacement key and pair it to your vehicle. This could be a long procedure, and you'll be waiting for the dealer to complete the task.
Many vehicles today are equipped with a special type of key known as a smart key. They are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, which allows for keyless entry and starting. They are usually used with ignitions that require a push-to start. The dealer can sell you a smart key, but it is expensive. A local auto locksmith can design an intelligent key for you at a fraction of what you would purchase from a dealership.
You can also get a replacement for your key with a new one at your local hardware store. They can design the standard lock cylinder keys. They will require the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you are unable to locate the VIN it's typically stamped on a metal plate found on the driver's doorpost or the dashboard. Even if you don't have the original key, most locksmiths for automotive can provide you with an alternative car key. However, in certain instances they may have to disassemble the ignition and door locks to do so. This isn't a risky job for a professional, but it will require some mechanical knowledge and skill.
2. Call for a locksmith
The most frequent reason for roadside assistance is when you've lost your car keys. Keep an extra car key in your bag and store it in a safe place. However even the most cautious people may lose their car keys. It's important to check thoroughly for the key and notify your insurance company as soon as possible to reduce the chance of being denied a claim in the event that it turns up stolen later.
If you don't have a spare key, the next best option is to call the locksmith. Locksmiths can usually provide a replacement key at less than the dealership will cost. They may also come to your location 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 vary based on the type you have. Keys that are traditional are able to be replaced at most hardware stores for $10 each, are the most affordable. If your car comes with a key fob that can be used as a remote to lock and start the car, or a smart-key, which can only be replaced at a dealership, the cost of these keys is usually higher than the traditional one.
In the majority of instances, an auto locksmith will be able to replace the key fob or smart key if they have the VIN number of your car it is usually located on a metal plaque on the driver's side of the doorpost or stamped into the windshield of the car. They will also require proof that you have ownership of the vehicle and have an original registration or title.
g28carkeys is essential to conduct your research prior to hiring a locksmith. You can locate reputable auto locksmiths on the internet or asking friends and family for suggestions. Also, be aware that using keys that are not yours to start your car could result in a breach of your vehicle's 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 is a good idea to contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith and wait for a replacement key from the dealer.
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 an inhale and try to rationalize the situation. It is more likely you lost your keys than they were stolen. The next step is to go back your steps and try to figure out the location where they were lost. It could be helpful to look in places you would not normally check, such as pockets on your pants or coat, or in a bag you carry when running. After you've inspected all of these areas it's a good idea to call your insurance company.
Modern cars come with electronic keys that communicate with a chip with the car. This communication process allows the car to recognize the key fob, unlock the doors and start the engine. If you lose your keys, it's important to report it immediately so that unauthorized people aren't able to enter your vehicle and use it.
Certain car insurance companies provide a policy add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. It's worth checking with your insurance provider to determine whether they have this type of coverage or if you can find an individual locksmith who will cover the cost.
It is possible to replace the mechanical key at most hardware stores for a reasonable price. However, if your car has an electronic key fob that's linked to your vehicle via the chip, you'll need to go to your dealership to get the replacement. It's expensive however it's much cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.
Filing an insurance claim due to a stolen car key can increase your insurance rates. This is because your insurance provider will consider you to be an extremely risky driver for the loss of your car key, and may raise your premiums in order to offset the cost of making an insurance claim. Fortunately, you can often avoid the extra expenses by purchasing a device to track your lost car key or having a locksmith make the new key without cloning the original.
4. Contact a Tow Truck
It's the most frustrating thing to lose your car keys and nobody would want it to happen. However, if it does happen it can be expensive to replace the lost key and get back on the road. That's why it's best to be prepared in case it happens, so that you don't have to call an tow truck and keep your money in your wallet.
Follow your steps in case you've lost your keys. This will help you determine where they are and can help you calm your anxiety. Make a list of the actions you took prior to losing your keys, like buying something at the supermarket or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you pinpoint the place to start.
If you cannot find your keys, look in places you might have put them, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or in the bag you used to transport them home. If you're unable to find them, take a few minutes to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.
A key tracker bluetooth can also be utilized on your phone. These are tiny devices that can be attached to your keyring and use an app on your phone that can show you where your keys are, so you don't have to look through every pocket or drawer in your house.
The cost of replacing a lost car key can differ depending on the type of key you have. If you own a traditional key that is used for automotive, a locksmith can typically make a new one immediately without the original, which can save you money. If you have a smart key that uses a proximity detector to open the doors or start your car's engine, you will need go to the dealer to purchase a new one.
You must have a plan in place for the event that you lose your keys. This will save you the hassle of paying for the 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. If you follow these suggestions you can ensure your keys don't disappear for ever and have a backup plan for when they do.