How to Replace Lost Car Keys

In the rush of taking kids to school, running errands and working it is common for things to become lost. One of the most frequent items that go missing is our car keys.

In the past, this was not an issue because you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. However, nowadays, it isn't as easy.

1. Contact Your Car Dealership

Your car dealer is the first person you should call should you lose your keys. The majority of car dealers keep a record of every key that is made for their vehicles so it should be easy for them to find yours. It is expensive to visit a dealer, so you should research. You may be able to find a cheaper option through a locksmith for cars.

In the majority of cases, you will need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, such as an original registration or title, to obtain a replacement key from the dealer. The dealership will then request a new key and pair it with your vehicle. The dealer will need to complete this lengthy procedure.

Smart keys are a kind of key that is utilized in many cars in the present. They are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, which allows for keyless entry and starting. They are usually paired with ignitions that are push-to-start. You can buy a new smart key from the dealership, but the price is very expensive. A local auto locksmith can make the smart key for a fraction of what you'd pay at the dealership.

You can also get a replacement for the key you have always had at the local hardware store. They can make you the standard lock cylinder keys. They will need the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you can't find the VIN on your car it will be stamped on a metal plaque located on the dashboard or driver's doorpost. Even if you do not have the original, most automotive locksmiths can provide you with an alternate car key. In certain instances the locksmith might need to remove the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. This is not a hazardous task, but it requires some technical knowledge.

2. Call a Locksmith

The most common reason for seeking roadside assistance is that you have lost your car keys. Keep an extra car key with you and store it in a safe place. Even the most careful people can lose their keys. It is essential to search thoroughly for the key and to inform your insurance company as soon as possible to reduce your chances of being denied a claim in the event that it is found later stolen.

If you don't have an extra key, the next best option is to contact an locksmith. Locksmiths are usually able to provide a key replacement at less than what a dealership would charge. They can also come to your home to make the key on the spot which is easier than having your vehicle taken back to the dealer.

The cost of replacing your car key will vary based on the model you own. Keys that are traditional, which can be replaced at the majority of hardware stores for around $10 each and are the cheapest. If your car is equipped with a key fob that can be used as a remote for unlocking and start the vehicle, or a smart-key that can only by replaced at a dealership, the price of these keys is typically more expensive than traditional keys.

In most instances, an auto locksmith will be able to replace keys fobs or a smart key if they have the VIN number for your car, which is typically found on a metal plate on the driver's side doorpost, or in the windshield of the vehicle. They will also require evidence that you own the car by providing the registration or title.

You should always do your homework prior to hiring locksmith. You can find reputable auto locksmiths by searching online or asking friends and family for suggestions. Be aware that using unauthorized keys to start the car can lead to the breach of your vehicle's warranty. The use of keys that are not authorized could cause damage to the lock of your vehicle. If you don't want to risk this, it's 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 could do when you lose your car key is to panic. Take a deep breath, lost car key replacement price and then try to reason your situation. It is likely that you lost your keys due to you lost keys for car them, instead of them being stolen. The next step is to retrace your steps and determine the location where they went missing. It might help to look around in places that you wouldn't usually check like pockets in your pants or coat or in a bag you carry around when you run. Once you've checked all these places it's a good idea to contact your insurance company.

Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate via an electronic chip with the car. This communication process allows the car to recognize and unlock the doors, and also start the engine. If you lose your keys, it's important to report this immediately to ensure that anyone who isn't authorized don't get into your car and use it.

Some insurance companies offer an add-on to their policy that covers the cost of a replacement car key. It's worth checking with your insurance provider to see whether they have this type of protection or if they can locate an individual locksmith who will pay for the cost.

You can usually get a replacement for the mechanical key at most hardware stores for a reasonable price. If, however, your car has an electronic key fob, which is connected to your car via the chip, you'll have to visit your dealer for a replacement. It's not cheap but it's cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.

In addition to the expense of replacing your car key, filing an insurance claim for a stolen key can cause your car insurance rates to increase. This is because your insurance company will consider you to be a high-risk driver for losing your car keys and could increase your premiums to cover the cost of making a claims claim. Fortunately, you can save yourself the cost of purchasing a device to track your lost car key or having a locksmith create the new key without cloning the original.

4. Contact a Tow truck

It's the most gruelling thing to lose your car keys, and nobody would want it to happen. If it does happen it could cost a lot to replace the key and get back on the road. It's important to be prepared so that you don't have call a tow-truck and can keep your money.

When you've lost car key replacement price your car keys, the first thing to do is retrace your steps. This will help you determine where they are, and help you calm your anxiety. You might remember doing something in the supermarket, or dropping your keys on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you determine your place of origin.

If you are unable to locate your keys, look around in which they could be, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing or the bag you put them in after you returned home. If you can't find them, take a moment to relax before calling an locksmith or a tow truck.

Another alternative is to use a bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are tiny devices can be attached to your keyring, and also have an app for your phone that will reveal where your keys are, so you don't need to search every pocket or drawer within your home.

The cost of replacing a lost car key may vary dependent on the type of key that you have. If you have a traditional key, an automotive locksmith can usually make a new one in a matter of minutes without the original one, which can save you money. But if you have a smart key that uses the proximity sensor to open the door or start the engine, you'll need to visit the dealer to get a replacement.

It is essential to have a plan in place for when you lose your car keys, so that you can save yourself the headache of having to pay for a tow truck or a locksmith. If you're exhausted or distracted, it's easy to lose your keys to your car. But by following these tips you can ensure that your keys won't vanish for ever and have a backup plan in case the event that they do.