How to Replace Lost Car Keys

In the rush of getting kids to school, running errands and working, things have a tendency to become lost. One of the most common items that go missing is our car keys.

In the past, this was not an issue since you could easily replace it at your local hardware store or locksmith. This is not the case anymore.

1. Call Your Car Dealership

Your car dealer is the first person you should contact in case you lose your key. The majority of car dealers keep records of each key they make for their cars, so they will be able to locate your key. It is expensive to visit a dealer, so you should look around. You might be able to find a cheaper option through an automotive locksmith.

In most instances, you'll need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, like a copy of your title or registration, to get a replacement key from the dealership. The dealership will then order the new key and then pair it with your vehicle. The dealer will need to complete this lengthy procedure.

Many cars today are equipped with keys that are specialized called a smart key. They are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, which allows for keyless entry and starting. They are typically used in conjunction with ignitions that have a push-to-start feature. You can purchase a new smart key from a dealership, but the cost is quite high. Local auto locksmiths can create you a smart lock at only a fraction of the cost.

You can also replace your key with a new one at your local hardware store. They can create an ordinary lock cylinder key. They will need the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you're unable to find the VIN it's typically stamped on a metal plaque that is located on the driver's side doorpost or dashboard. Most automotive locksmiths are able to provide you with the replacement for your car key even if they don't have the original. In some cases the locksmith might need to remove the ignition and door locks in order to complete the task. This isn't a risky job for a professional, but it requires some mechanical expertise and skills.

2. Call a locksmith

The most common reason for roadside assistance is because you've lost your car keys. Keep an extra car key in your bag and store it safely. Even the most careful of people can lose their keys. You should look for the car keys and notify your insurance company immediately if you find it. This will lower the likelihood of your claim being rejected later should your key be found stolen.

If you don't have an extra key, the best option is to contact a locksmith. Locksmiths can usually provide a replacement key for less than the dealership would charge. They can also usually visit your place and make the key on the spot and is more efficient than having to take your vehicle back to the dealership.

The cost of replacing your car keys will vary based on the model you have. Keys that are traditional are able to be replaced at most hardware stores for about $10 each they are the least expensive. If your car is equipped with a key fob that can be used as a remote to lock and start the car, or a smart-key, which can only be replaced at a dealership, the price of these keys is usually higher than the traditional one.

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

Always conduct your research prior to hiring a locksmith. You can find qualified auto-locksmiths by searching on the internet or asking family members and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using an unlicensed key to start your car could lead to a breach of warranty. The use of keys that are not authorized could cause damage to your car's lock. If you do not want to risk this, it's a good idea to contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith, and wait for your replacement key from the dealer.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

One of the most dangerous things you can do when you lose your car key is to panic. Take a deep breath and then try to reason your situation. Most likely, you lost your keys because you misplaced them, How to Replace Lost Car Keys instead of having them taken. The next step is to retrace the steps you followed and try to find out where your keys were. You may want to look in places that you wouldn't normally look at, like the pockets of your pants, or a coat or a bag you carry to run in. After you've inspected these areas you must contact your insurance provider.

Modern cars are fitted with electronic keys which communicate with your car via chip. This process of communication allows the vehicle to recognize and unlock the doors, and also start the engine. If you lose your keys, it's important to report it immediately so that unauthorized people don't get into your car and use it.

Some insurance companies offer an additional benefit to their policies that will cover the cost of replacing a key for your car. It is worth contacting your insurance company to find out if they offer this type of insurance or if they can locate an individual locksmith who will pay for the cost.

If your car has the standard mechanical key, you'll be able to replace it at any hardware store for a nominal cost. However, if your vehicle is equipped with an electronic key fob, which is connected to your car via the chip, you'll need go to the dealership for the replacement. It's not cheap however it's much cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.

In addition to the expense of replacing your car keys and filing an insurance claim for a stolen key could cause your car insurance rates to rise. This is because your insurance company will consider you to be high-risk driver for loosing your car key and could increase your premiums to cover the cost of settling an insurance claim. You can cut down on these additional expenses by purchasing a device that tracks your lost key to track your lost car keys with no spare key or hiring a professional locksmith to design a key without cloning the old key.

4. Call a tow truck

It's one of the most difficult things to lose your car keys, and nobody would want to experience this. If it happens it could cost a lot to replace the key and get back on the road. That's why it's best to be prepared if it does, so you can avoid having to call a tow truck, and keep your money in your wallet.

If you've lost your car keys, the very first step is to retrace your steps. This will help you locate the keys and calm your panic. Try to remember the actions you took prior to losing your keys, for example, buying something at the supermarket or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you identify your starting point.

If you can't find your keys, search for 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 are unable to locate them, take a few minutes to relax and then call an locksmith or a tow truck.

A key tracker bluetooth can also be used with your phone. These are small devices you can attach to a keyring, and an app for your smartphone will show you the whereabouts of your keys.

The cost of replacing the car key that has been lost my car keys no spare can differ based on the type of key you have. If you have a conventional key an automotive locksmith will usually make a new one immediately without the original, which can save you money. However, if you own an electronic key that relies on proximity sensors to open the door or turn on the engine, you'll need to go to the dealership to get a replacement.

It's essential to have a plan in place in case you lose your car keys so that you can avoid the hassle of having to pay for the tow truck or locksmith. It's easy for you to forget your car keys when you're exhausted after a long work day or when your mind is on other things. By following these guidelines, you can make sure that your keys don't disappear forever, and you'll have backup plans in case they happen to disappear.