How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Things are often lost in the chaos of getting kids to and from school, running errands and working. One of the most common items that go missing is the keys to our car.

In the past, you could easily replace this at the local locksmith or hardware store. Today, it's not as easy.

1. Contact Your Car Dealership

Your car dealer is the first person to contact if you lose your key. The majority of dealers keep records of every key that they have made for their vehicles, which means they will be able to locate yours. It's expensive to visit a dealership and therefore, you should research. You might be able get a cheaper option through an automotive locksmith.

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

A lot of cars today are equipped with keys that are specialized called a smart key. They are designed to work with a proximity sensor to be activated within the car, allowing keyless entry and starting. They are typically used in conjunction with ignitions that have a push-to-start feature. The dealer will sell you a smart key but it's costly. Local auto locksmiths can give you a smart lock at less than the cost.

You can also get an old-fashioned key replacement at your local hardware store. They can create an ordinary key that will fit your vehicle's lock cylinder. They'll need the model year of your car and the VIN. If you are unable to locate the VIN it's typically stamped on a metal plaque found on the driver's doorpost or dashboard. Most automotive locksmiths will be able to offer an alternative car key, even if you don't have the original. In some cases the locksmith might need to remove the door lock and ignition in order to do this. This isn't a risky job for a professional, however it requires some mechanical expertise and skills.

2. Call a Locksmith

The most common reason for requesting roadside assistance is that you have lost your car keys. Keep a spare car key with you and store it safely. Even the most cautious of people may lose their keys. It is essential to search thoroughly for the key and to notify your insurance company as quickly as you can to minimize the chances of getting denied a claim if it is found later stolen.

If you don't have an extra key, the next best option is to contact an locksmith. Locksmiths usually can provide a key replacement at less than the cost a dealership would charge. They are also able to visit your location and create the key right there which is more efficient than having to take your vehicle back to the dealership.

The cost of replacing your car keys can vary depending on the model you have. The most affordable keys are traditional keys that can be bought at the majority of hardware stores. They are about $10 per key. If your car has the key car lost fob, which functions as a remote and can unlock and start the engine, or a smart key that can only be replaced by dealers the keys will typically cost more than the standard key.

In most instances, an auto locksmith can replace lost key keys fobs or a smart key as long as they can get the VIN number for your car that is usually found on a metal plaque on the driver's side of the doorpost or etched into the windshield of the car. They will require proof of ownership, such as your registration or title.

It is essential to do your research before hiring a locksmith. You can find reputable auto locksmiths on the internet or How to Replace Lost Car Keys asking family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using keys that are not yours to start your car could result in a breach of your vehicle's warranty. Using unauthorized key may also cause damage to the lock of your car. If you do not want to risk it, it is best to call roadside help instead of a locksmith for your car and wait until your dealer provides a replacement key.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

Panic is one of the most negative reactions you can have when you lose your key. Relax, and then try to think about your situation. It is more likely that you misplaced your keys than they were stolen. The next step is to trace your steps and figure out the place they were lost. You might want to check places you don't normally check, like the pockets of your pants, or a coat or a bag that you use for running. After you've checked these places it is time to call your insurance provider.

Modern cars are fitted with electronic key fobs that connect to your car via chip. This communication lets the car recognize the key fob and unlock the doors, and also start the engine. It is crucial to report the loss of your keys immediately to prevent unauthorized individuals from utilizing your vehicle.

Certain car insurance companies provide an insurance add-on that covers the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. Check with your insurance company to find out if this type of coverage is available or if an individual locksmith will cover the costs.

If your car is equipped with an ordinary mechanical key, you can have it replaced at any hardware store for a nominal cost. If your car has an electronic key that is paired with your vehicle using the chip, then you'll have to visit your dealer to obtain an alternative. It can be costly however it's much cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.

Making an insurance claim due to a stolen car key can increase your insurance costs. Your insurance company could increase your premiums as they'll view you as a high-risk motorist because you lost your key. You can reduce these cost by buying a device that tracks your lost key to locate your lost key or hiring a professional locksmith to create keys without copying the old one.

4. Contact for a Tow Truck

No one wants to lose their car keys. It is the worst scenario that could happen. If it does happen it could be costly to replace the key that was lost and get back on the road again. It's essential to be prepared so that you don't have call a tow-truck and can keep your money.

If you've lost your car keys, the first step is to retrace your steps. This will help you determine where they are and can help calm your panic. You may remember doing something in the grocery store, or dropping your keys on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you identify your starting point.

If you are unable to locate your keys, look around 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 find them, take some time to relax and then call an locksmith or a tow truck.

Another alternative is to use a bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are small devices you can connect to a keyring and an app on your smartphone will provide you with the location of your keys.

The cost of replacing lost car keys can vary according to the type of key that you own. If you own a traditional key, an automotive locksmith can usually make a new one immediately without the original, which can save you money. However, if you own a smart key that uses proximity sensors to open the door or How to Replace Lost Car Keys start the engine, you'll need to go to the dealership to get a replacement.

It is essential to have a plan in case you lose your car keys, so that you will not have the hassle of having to pay for the tow truck or locksmith. It's easy to lose your car keys when you're exhausted after a long day, or when your attention is focused distracted by other things. If you follow these suggestions, you can make sure that your keys won't vanish for ever and have a backup plan in case when they do.