How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Things tend to get lost in the rush of getting children to and from school, running errands, and working. One of the most frequently lost things that get lost is our car keys.

In the past you could easily change this at your local locksmith or hardware store. This is not the case anymore.

1. Call Your Car Dealership

Your car dealer is the first person to contact should you lose your keys. Most car dealers keep track of each key made for their vehicles, therefore it should be simple for them to find yours. It is expensive to visit a dealership, so you should look around. You might be able to get a lower price through a locksmith for cars.

In most instances, you'll have to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and evidence of ownership, such as a copy of the registration or title, to get an alternative key from the dealer. The dealership will request the replacement key and attach it with your vehicle. The dealer will need to complete this lengthy process.

A lot of cars today are equipped with a special type of key known as a smart keys. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor Lost inside the vehicle, allowing for keyless entry and start. These keys are typically used with ignitions that require a push-to start. You can purchase a new smart key from the dealership, but the price is a bit high. Local auto locksmiths can create you a smart key at less than the cost.

You can also get a replacement for the key you have always had at your local hardware store. They will be able to create a standard key that is compatible with the lock cylinder in your car. They'll need the year of manufacture of your car and the VIN. If you can't find the VIN on your car it will be engraved on a metal plaque that is placed on the dashboard or the driver's doorpost. Most locksmiths in the automotive industry can provide you with a car key replacement even if you don't have the original. In some cases, the locksmith may have to take apart the ignition and door locks in order to do this. This is not a risky job for a professional, however it requires some mechanical knowledge and skill.

2. Contact a locksmith

The most frequent reason for requesting roadside assistance is when 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 can lose their keys. It is important to look for the car keys and inform your insurance company immediately if you spot it. This will reduce the likelihood of your claim being denied later in the event that your key is stolen.

If you don't have a spare key, the next best option is to call an locksmith. A locksmith can generally provide a replacement key for less than what the dealership will charge. They can also visit your location to create the key on the spot 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 model you have. Traditional keys that can be exchanged at the majority of hardware stores for around $10 each and are the cheapest. If your car is equipped with the key fob, which acts like a remote and allows you to open and start the engine, or a smart key, that can only be replaced by an auto dealer, these keys will usually cost more than a traditional key.

In the majority of instances, an automotive locksmith will be able to replace a key fob or smart key as long as they can get the VIN number for your vehicle it is usually located on a metal plate on the driver's side doorpost, or etched into the windshield of your vehicle. They will also require evidence that you own the car and have the registration or title.

Some locksmiths aren't licensed or insured, so be sure to research them before hiring. You can find qualified auto-locksmiths by searching on the internet, or asking family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using keys that are not yours to start the car can lead to the breach of your vehicle's warranty. Using unauthorized keys may also cause damage to your car's lock. If you do not want to risk it you should consider to contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith and wait for a replacement key from the dealer.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

Panic is one of the most negative reactions you can experience when you lose your key. The first step is to take a deep breath and try to understand the situation. Chances are that you lost your keys because you lost them, instead of having them stolen. The next step is to trace your steps and try to determine the location where they went missing. It's a good idea to check areas you're not usually checking like the pockets of your pants, coat or a bag that you use to run in. After you've looked in these places, you should call your insurance provider.

Modern cars are fitted with electronic key fobs that connect to your car via chip. This process of communication allows the vehicle to recognize the key fob, unlock the doors, and also start the engine. If you lose your keys it is important to report this immediately to ensure that people who are not authorized can't enter your car and use it.

Certain insurance companies provide an additional benefit to their policies that will cover the cost of replacing a key for your car. Check with your insurance company to determine if this kind of coverage is available or if a locksmith can pay for the costs.

You can usually replace a mechanical key in many hardware stores for a fair cost. However, if your car is equipped with an electronic key fob that is linked to your vehicle via the chip, you'll have go to the dealership to get an upgrade. It's expensive but it's cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.

Making an insurance claim because of the theft of your car key could increase your insurance premiums. This is because your insurance provider will consider you an extremely risky driver for the loss of your car keys and could increase your premiums in order to offset the cost of paying out an insurance claim. You can cut down on these additional costs by purchasing a tracking device that will locate your lost key to car no spare key or hiring a professional locksmith to create keys without copying the old key.

4. Contact a Tow truck

Nobody wants to lose their car keys. It's the worst thing that could occur. If it does happen it can be expensive to replace the key that was lost and get you back on the road again. It's essential to be prepared in order that you don't have to call a tow truck and save your money.

When you've lost your car keys, the first step is to retrace your steps. This will help you determine where they are, and help calm your panic. Make a list of what you did prior to losing your keys, such as picking up something from the supermarket or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you to find your starting point.

If you're 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 came home. If you're still unable to locate them, give yourself some time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.

A key tracker with bluetooth can be used with your phone. These are tiny devices that can be attached to your keyring, and also have an app on your phone to let you know where your keys are so you don't need to search every drawer or pocket in your home.

The cost of replacing lost car keys can vary according to the type of key that you have. If you own a traditional key an automotive locksmith will typically make a new one immediately without the original one, which will save you some money. If you have an electronic key that utilizes the proximity sensor to open the door or start the engine, you'll have to visit the dealer to get a replacement.

You must have a plan in place for the event that you lose your keys. This will help you avoid the expense of the tow-truck or locksmith. It's easy to forget your car keys when you're tired after a long day, or when your thoughts are focused on other things. By following these tips you can ensure that your keys won't disappear forever, and you'll have a back-up plan in case they do.