How to Replace Lost Car Keys

In the rush of sending children to school, running errands and working, things have a tendency to get lost keys to my car. 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. Call Your Car Dealership

Your car dealer is the first person you should contact should you lose your keys. The majority of car dealers keep a record of each key they make for their vehicles, so they will be able to locate your key. It can be costly to visit a dealership, so you should shop around. You may be able to find a cheaper solution by using an auto locksmith.

You'll likely have to provide the dealership with your vehicle identification number or VIN, and evidence of ownership (such as a copy of registration or title) to receive an alternative key. The dealership will then purchase the new key and then pair it with your vehicle. This can be a lengthy process, and you will need to wait for the dealer to complete the job.

A lot of cars today have keys that are specialized called a smart key. These keys are designed to use proximity sensors to be activated inside the car, allowing keyless entry and start. They are usually used with ignitions that have a push-to-start feature. The dealer will sell you a smart key, however, it's expensive. Local auto locksmiths can create you a smart key for less than the cost.

You can also get a replacement for the key you have always had at your local hardware store. They can create a standard lock cylinder key. They'll need the year of manufacture of your vehicle and the VIN. If you are unable to locate the VIN on your car, it will be stamped on a metal plaque located on the dashboard or the driver's doorpost. Most locksmiths in the automotive industry can offer an alternative car key even if they don't have the original. In some cases the locksmith might need to remove the door lock and ignition in order to complete the task. This isn't a risky job for a professional, however it will require some mechanical skills and knowledge.

2. Call a Locksmith

The most common reason for requesting roadside assistance is because you've lost your car keys. Keep an extra car key with you and store it safely. However even the most cautious people may lose their car keys. You should check for the car keys and inform your insurance company immediately if you discover it. This will lower the chances of your claim being denied should your key be found stolen.

Calling a locksmith is the next best thing when you don't have an extra. Locksmiths can usually offer a replacement key for less than what a dealership would charge. They will usually visit your place and create the key right there and is more convenient than having to bring your vehicle back to the dealership.

The kind of car key you have could affect the cost of replacing it. The most affordable keys are the traditional keys that can be purchased 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 allows you to open and start the engine, or a smart key that can only be replaced by dealers, these keys will usually cost more than the standard key.

A locksmith can replace the smart key or key fob in most cases so long as they have the VIN number for your vehicle. It is usually located on the metal plate on the driver's doorpost or stamped on the windshield. They will need proof of ownership, like your registration or title.

You should always do your research before hiring locksmith. You can find qualified auto locksmiths by looking online or asking friends and family for suggestions. Be aware that using keys that are not yours to start the car can lead to the violation of your vehicle's warranty. Using unauthorized keys may also cause damage to the lock of your vehicle. If you don't want to risk it then call roadside assistance instead of a car locksmith and wait until your dealer delivers a new key.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

One of the most dangerous things you can do when you lose your car key is to panic. The first step is to take an inhale and try to rationalize the situation. It is more likely that you lost your keys rather than they were stolen. The next step is to go back through the steps you followed and try to locate the location where your keys went missing. You may want to look in places you don't normally check like the pockets of your pants or bags or coats you carry for running. After you've looked in these places you must contact your insurance company.

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that connect to your car through chips. This communication process allows the car to recognize and open the doors and then start the engine. If you lose your key, it's important to report this immediately to ensure that people who are not authorized 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 car key. Contact your insurance provider to determine if this kind of insurance is offered or if an individual locksmith can cover the cost.

You can usually replace a mechanical key in many hardware stores for a reasonable cost. If your car is equipped with an electronic key that connects with your vehicle using the chip, then you'll have to visit the dealership to obtain an replacement. It's expensive but it's cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.

In addition to the expense of replacing your car key and filing an insurance claim for the loss of a key can cause your insurance rates to rise. This is because your insurance provider will view you as 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 costs by purchasing a tracking device that will track your lost keys or hiring a professional locksmith to design an original key without copying the old key.

4. Call towing truck

No one wants to lose their car keys. It's the worst thing that could occur. If it happens it could be costly to replace keys and get back on the road. It's essential to be prepared so that you don't need to call a tow truck and keep your money.

If you've lost your car keys, the first step is to retrace your steps. This can aid in determining where they are, and help you calm your anxiety. Make a list of what you did right before losing your keys, such as picking up something from the grocery store or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you find your starting point.

If you can't locate your keys, check places you might have placed them, such as the pockets of the clothing you were wearing, or in the bag that you used to transport them home. If you're still unable to locate the keys, give yourself time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.

A key tracker with bluetooth can be utilized on your phone. These are tiny devices that you can attach to a keyring and an app for your smartphone will show you the whereabouts of your keys.

The cost to replace the car key that has been lost can vary depending on what to do if lost car keys kind of key you own. It is cheaper when you use an old-fashioned car key. A locksmith for automotive will typically be in a position to create a new key on the spot, but without the original. If you have a smart-key that uses a proximity detector to open the doors or turn on your car's engine it is necessary to visit a dealership to get a replacement.

It's important to have a plan to deal with the loss of your car keys, so you will not have the hassle of having to pay for the tow truck or locksmith. When you're stressed or distracted, it's not difficult to lose your car keys. But by following these tips you can ensure that your keys won't vanish for ever and have a backup plan for what to do if lost car keys when they do.