How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Things tend to get lost in the chaos of getting kids to and from school, running errands, and working. One of the most frequently lost items that disappears is the keys to our cars.

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

1. Contact Your Car Dealership

If you lose your car key, the first place you should contact is your car dealer. Most dealers keep a record of every key made for their vehicles, so it should be easy for them to track down your keys. It can be costly to visit a dealership and you should look around. You might be able find a cheaper solution through an auto locksmith.

It is likely that you will need to provide the dealership with 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 a replacement key and pair it to your vehicle. The dealer will have to complete this lengthy procedure.

Many vehicles today are equipped with a special type of key known as a smart keys. They are designed to activate a proximity sensor inside the vehicle, which allows for keyless entry and start. They are usually used with ignitions that require a push to start. The dealer will sell you a smart key however, it's expensive. Local auto locksmiths can create you a smart key at only a fraction of the cost.

You can also get a replacement for your classic key at your local hardware store. They can create a standard lock cylinder key. They will need to know the year of manufacture of your vehicle, as well as the VIN. If you are unable to locate the VIN it's typically printed on a metal plate that is located on the driver's side doorpost or dashboard. Most automotive locksmiths will be able to offer a car key replacement even if you don't have the original. However, in certain instances, they may need to disassemble the ignition and door locks to accomplish this. This isn't a risky job for a professional, but it will require some mechanical skills and knowledge.

2. Contact a locksmith

The most frequent reason for seeking roadside assistance is when you've lost your car keys. Keep an extra car key with you and store it in a safe place. However even the most cautious people can lose their car keys. It is important to look for the car keys and inform your insurance company immediately if you find it. This will reduce the chances of your claim being denied in the event that your key is stolen.

A locksmith's call is the best option if you don't own a spare. Locksmiths usually can provide a key replacement at less than what a dealership would cost. They can also visit your location to make the key on the spot, which is more convenient than having your vehicle brought back to the dealer.

The cost of replacing your car keys will vary based on the kind of key you own. The most affordable keys are the standard keys that are available at most hardware stores. They cost about $10 per key. If your car is equipped with a key fob, which acts like a remote and can be used to unlock and start the engine, or a smart-key, which can only be changed by a dealership the keys will typically cost more than the traditional key.

In most instances, an automotive locksmith can replace keys fobs or a smart key if they have the VIN number of your vehicle that is usually found on a metal plate that is placed 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, such as a copy of your registration or Replace Lost Car Keys title.

Some locksmiths are not licensed or insured, so be sure to do your research prior to hiring them. You can find qualified auto-locksmiths by searching online or asking family and friends for suggestions. Also, be aware that using unauthorized keys to start your car could lead to the breach of your vehicle's warranty. Unauthorized keys can cause damage to the lock of your vehicle. If you don't want to take this risk you should consider to contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith, and wait for your replacement key from the dealer.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

Panic is one of the most negative reactions you can be experiencing when you lose your keys. Relax, and then try to think about your situation. It is more likely that you misplaced your keys than they were stolen. So, the next step is to go back your steps and determine where they went missing. It might help to check places you don't normally look, such as pockets on your pants or coat, or in a bag you carry for running. After you've looked in these places, you should call your insurance company.

Modern cars come with electronic keys that communicate via an electronic chip with the car. This allows the car to recognize the key fob, and then open the doors, and start the engine. If you lose your keys, it's important to notify the police immediately so that unauthorized people 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 car key. Check with your insurance company to see if this type of coverage is available or if a locksmith will cover the costs.

You can usually replace a mechanical key in many hardware stores for a reasonable price. If your car is equipped with an electronic key that connects to your vehicle via the chip, then you'll have to visit the dealership to obtain an alternative. It's not cheap however it's much cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.

In the event of filing an insurance claim because of the theft of your car key could increase your insurance costs. Your insurance company could raise your premiums due to the fact that they'll consider you to be a high-risk motorist because you lost your key. 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. Call a tow truck

It's one of the most difficult things to lose your car keys, and nobody wants to experience this. If it does happen it can be expensive to replace the lost key and get back on the road again. It's why it's important to be prepared for when it does, so you don't have to call a tow truck, and keep your money in your wallet.

Retrace your steps if you've lost your keys. This will help you locate the keys and calm your panic. Make a list of what you did prior to losing your keys, such as grabbing something at the supermarket or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you pinpoint your starting point.

If you cannot find your keys, look in places you might have placed them, like the pockets of the clothing you were wearing, or the bag that you used to transport 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 tiny devices that you can connect to a keyring and an app on your smartphone will show you the location of your keys.

The cost of replacing lost my only car key car key can be a bit expensive according to the type of key you have. It is cheaper in the case of an old-fashioned car key. An automotive locksmith will usually be in a position to create a new key on the spot, without the original. If you have an electronic key that utilizes the proximity sensor to open the door or turn on the engine, you'll need go to the dealer to get a replacement.

It is important to have a plan in case you lose your keys. This will help you avoid the hassle of having to pay for the tow-truck or locksmith. When you're tired or distracted, it's not difficult to lose your car keys. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your keys won't disappear forever, and have an alternative plan in case they do.