How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Things can get lost in the chaos of getting kids to and from school, running errands and working. One of the most common items that go missing is the keys to our car.

In the past, this wasn't a big deal because you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. Today, it's not as simple.

1. Call Your Car Dealership

If you've lost your car key, the first place you should call is your dealer. The majority of dealers keep records of each key they make for their vehicles, which means they are likely to be able find your key. It's expensive to visit a dealer and therefore, you should look around. You might be able to find a cheaper option through an automotive locksmith.

In the majority of cases, you will need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, such as a copy of your title or registration, to get an alternative key from the dealer. The dealership will request an alternative key and connect it with your vehicle. This could be a long procedure, motor and you'll have to wait until the dealer has completed the process.

Many vehicles today are equipped with the special kind of key known as a smart key. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, allowing for keyless entry and start. These keys are often paired with ignitions that require a push to start. The dealer can sell you a smart key but it's costly. Local auto locksmiths can give you a smart key at less than the cost.

You can also get a traditional key replacement from a local hardware store. They will be able to create a standard key that is compatible with the lock cylinder of your vehicle. 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 located on the dashboard or doorpost. The majority of locksmiths for automotive can offer a car key replacement even if you don't have the original. However, in certain instances they might need to disassemble the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. This is not a risky job for a professional, however it will require some mechanical knowledge and skill.

2. Contact a locksmith

The most common reason for seeking roadside assistance is that you have lost your car keys. It is essential to keep a spare key handy with you and ensure it's safe. However even the most vigilant people may lose their car keys. It is important to look for the car keys and motor notify your insurance company immediately if you discover it. This will lower the chances of your claim being rejected later if your key is found stolen.

If you don't have an extra key, the best option is to contact a locksmith. Locksmiths are usually able to provide a key replacement at less than the cost a dealership would charge. They can also visit your location to create keys right there, which is more convenient than having your vehicle taken back to the dealer.

The type of car key that you have could affect the cost to replace it. The most affordable keys are traditional keys that are available at many hardware stores. They are about $10 per key. If your car comes with a key fob that can be used as a remote for unlocking and start the car, or a smart-key, which can only by replaced at an auto dealer, the cost of these keys will be more expensive than traditional keys.

A locksmith can replace lost key a smart key or key fob in the majority of cases as long as they have the VIN number of your car. This number is typically found on the metal plaque on the driver's doorpost or on the windshield. They will also require evidence that you have ownership of the vehicle by providing an original registration or title.

You should always do your research before hiring locksmith. You can locate reputable auto locksmiths by searching online or asking friends and family for suggestions. Be aware that using an unlicensed key to start your vehicle could result in an infringement of warranty. Unauthorized keys can damage your car's lock. If you aren't willing to take this risk is a good idea to call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith and wait for your replacement key from the dealer.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

One of the worst things you can do when you lose your car key is to panic. The first step is take your breath and try to think about the situation. It is more likely you lost your keys than they were stolen. So, the next step is to trace your steps and try to determine the place they were lost. You may want to look in places that you wouldn't normally look at, like the pockets of your pants, or a bag or coat you carry for running. After you've looked through all these places it's a good idea to call your insurance company.

Most modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate with your car through chip. This communication lets the car recognize the key fob and unlock the doors, and also start the engine. If you lose your keys it is important to notify the police immediately to ensure that people who are not authorized aren't able to enter your vehicle and use it.

Certain insurance companies provide an add-on to their policy that covers the cost of a replacement key for your car. It's worth checking with your insurance provider to see whether they have this type of insurance or if you can find an individual locksmith that can cover the cost.

You can usually replace a mechanical key in many hardware stores at a reasonable price. If your car has an electronic key that is paired to your car via the chip, you will have to visit your dealer to obtain a replacement. This can be costly, but it's much more cost-effective than hiring a locksmith.

In addition to the cost of replacing your car key and submitting an insurance claim for the loss of a key can cause your insurance rates to increase. This is because your insurance provider will consider you to be high-risk driver for loosing your car keys and could increase your premiums in order to offset the cost of paying out the claim. You can avoid these extra expenses by purchasing a device that tracks your lost key to track your lost key or hiring a professional locksmith to design an original key without copying the original key.

4. Contact towing truck

It's one of the most difficult things to lose your car keys, and nobody would want to see it happen. If it does happen, it can be expensive to replace keys and get back on the road. It's essential to be prepared so that you don't have call a tow truck and save your money.

Find your way back in case you've lost your keys. This can help you determine where they are and help calm your panic. Try to remember what you did right before losing your keys, for example, picking up something from the supermarket or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you identify your starting point.

If you can't locate your keys, search in places where you may have put them, such as the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or in the bag you used to carry them home. If you still can't find the keys, give yourself time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.

A key tracker with bluetooth can be used with your phone. These are small devices you can connect to a keyring and an app on your smartphone will display the whereabouts of your keys.

The cost of replacing a lost car key may vary depending on the type of key you have. It is cheaper if you have traditional car keys. A locksmith for automotive is usually capable of making a replacement on the spot, without the original. If you are using a smart-key that utilizes proximity sensors to open doors or start the engine of your car key lost no spare, motor you will need go to the dealer to get a replacement.

You should have a plan in place for the event that you lose your keys. This will spare you the expense of a tow-truck or locksmith. When you're tired or distracted, it's easy to lose your keys to your car. But by following these tips to ensure that your keys don't vanish forever and have a backup plan for when they do.