How to Replace Lost Car Keys

In the shuffle of taking kids to school, running errands, and working it is common for things to be lost. One of the most frequently lost things that get lost is our keys to our car.

In the past, you could easily replace this at your local locksmith or hardware store. This isn't the case anymore.

1. Call Your Car Dealership

Your car dealer is the first person to contact should you lose your keys. The majority of car dealers keep track of every key designed for their vehicles, making it easy for them to find your keys. It's expensive to visit a dealership, so you should look around. You may be able to find a cheaper solution through an automotive locksmith.

It is likely that you will need to give the dealership your vehicle identification number or VIN, along with proof of ownership (such as a copy registration or title) to receive the replacement key. The dealership will order the replacement key and attach it to your vehicle. The dealer will need to complete this lengthy procedure.

A lot of cars today come with a special type of key called a smart key. These keys are designed for proximity sensors to be activated within the car, which allows keyless entry and starting. They are usually used with ignitions that require a push-to start. You can purchase a new smart key from a dealership, but the price is quite expensive. Local auto locksmiths can create you a smart lock at a fraction of the cost.

You can also replace your key with a new one at the local hardware store. They can design a standard lock cylinder key. They will require the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you are unable to locate the VIN it's usually printed on a metal plate found on the driver's doorpost or the dashboard. The majority of locksmiths for automotive will be able to provide you with a car key replacement even if you don't have the original. However, in some cases, they may need to disassemble the ignition and door locks to do so. This is not a risky job for a professional, however it will require some mechanical knowledge and skill.

2. Call a Locksmith

Losing your car keys is one of the most common causes for roadside assistance and callouts. Keep a spare car key in your bag and keep it safe. Even the most careful people can lose their keys. It is essential to search thoroughly for the key lost car and to inform your insurance company as quickly as possible in order to decrease the chance of being denied a claim if it is found later stolen.

A locksmith's call is the best option when you don't have an extra key. Locksmiths usually can provide a key replacement at less than what a dealership would charge. They will usually come out to your location and create the key on the spot which is more efficient than having to take your vehicle back to the dealership.

The type of car key that you are using can impact the cost of replacing it. Traditional keys that can be exchanged at most hardware stores for about $10 each they are the least expensive. If your car comes with keys that can be used as a remote to lock and start the vehicle, or motor a smart-key, which is only able to be replaced at a dealership, the cost of these keys will be higher than the traditional one.

In the majority of instances, an auto locksmith can replace a key fob or smart key if they have the VIN number of your car that is usually found on a metal plaque on the driver's side doorpost, or stamped into the windshield of your vehicle. They will also need evidence that you own the car and have the registration or title.

You should always do your research before hiring a locksmith. You can find reputable auto locksmiths by searching on the internet or asking family and friends for suggestions. Be aware that using an unlicensed key to start your car could lead to a breach of warranty. A key that is not authorized could damage the lock of your car. If you don't want to risk it is a good idea to call 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 worst reactions you can be experiencing when you lose your key. The first step is take your breath and try to rationalize the situation. It is more likely that you lost your keys rather than they were stolen. The next step is retrace the steps you took and attempt to locate the location where your keys went missing. It may help to look around in places that you would not normally check like pockets on your pants or coat or motor in a bag you use when you run. After you've checked these places, you should call your insurance provider.

Modern cars are fitted with electronic keys that connect to your car via a chip. This communication process allows the vehicle to recognize the key fob, unlock the doors, and also start the engine. It is essential to inform the authorities of the loss of your keys immediately to stop unauthorized persons from accessing your vehicle.

Certain car insurance companies offer an insurance add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost car key. Contact your insurance provider to determine if this kind of insurance is offered or if an individual locksmith will cover the costs.

You can usually get a replacement for the mechanical key at most hardware stores at a reasonable price. If your car has an electronic key that is connected to your vehicle via the chip, then you will have to visit the dealership to get an alternative. This can be expensive, but it's much cheaper than hiring locksmith.

In addition to the cost of replacing your car keys, filing an insurance claim to replace a lost key can cause your insurance rates to rise. The insurance company could increase your premiums as they'll consider you to be a high-risk motorist in the event of losing your key. Fortunately, you can reduce the costs by purchasing a device to track your lost car key or letting a locksmith design an entirely new key without copying the original.

4. Call a tow truck

It's the most frustrating thing to lose your car keys and no one wants to see it happen. If it does happen it could cost a lot to replace the key and get back on the road. It is important to be prepared so that you don't have call a tow-truck and save your money.

Find your way back if you've lost your keys. This can help you determine where they are and help calm your panic. Try to recall the actions you took prior to losing your keys, such as grabbing something at the supermarket or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you to 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 after you returned home. If you're still unable to locate them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.

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

The cost of replacing lost car key can be a bit expensive dependent on the type of key that you own. If you have a traditional key that is used for automotive, a locksmith can generally make a new key in a matter of minutes without the original one, which can save you money. If you are using a smart-key that utilizes proximity sensors to open doors or turn on the engine of your vehicle, you will need to visit the dealership to obtain a replacement.

It is important to have a plan in case you lose your keys. This will spare you the hassle of having to pay for an tow-truck or locksmith. If you're exhausted or distracted, it's easy to lose your keys to your car. By following these tips you can make sure that your keys don't disappear forever, and you'll have a back-up plan in case they do.