How to Replace Lost Car Keys

In the rush of getting kids to school, running errands, and working things tend to be lost. Our car keys are one of the most commonly lost items.

In the past you could easily change this at your local hardware or locksmith store. However, this isn't the situation any more.

1. Contact Your Car Dealership

Your car dealer is the first person to contact should you lose your keys. Most dealers keep a record of each key made for their vehicles, making it easy for them to track down your keys. The drawback is that visiting the dealership can be expensive so it's crucial to shop around. You may be able locate a lower cost option through a locksmith for cars.

You will most likely need to give the dealership your vehicle identification number or VIN, and proof of ownership (such as a copy registration or title) to get an alternative key. The dealership will then order a new key and pair it with your vehicle. The dealer must complete this lengthy process.

Smart keys are a kind of key that is utilized in a lot of automobiles today. These keys are designed for a proximity sensor that can be activated within the car, which allows keyless entry and start. These keys are typically 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 give you a smart lock at less than the cost.

You can also purchase a traditional key replacement from a local hardware store. They can create a standard key that is compatible with the lock cylinder in your car. They will need to know the model year of your car, as well as 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 doorpost. Even if you don't have the original key, most automotive locksmiths can provide you with an alternative car key. However, in some cases they might need to take apart the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. It's not a risky job, but it requires some knowledge of mechanics.

2. Call a Locksmith

The misplacing of your car keys is among of the most common reasons for roadside assistance and calls. Keep an extra car key in your bag and keep it safe. However even the most cautious people can lose their car keys. It's important to check thoroughly for the key and inform your insurance company as soon as possible to reduce the chances of getting denied a claim if the key is found later stolen.

Contacting a locksmith is the next best thing in the event that you don't have an extra. Locksmiths can usually offer a replacement key for less than what the dealership would charge. They may also come to your home to make the key right there which is easier than having your vehicle brought back to the dealer.

The type of car key you are using can impact the cost to replace it. The most affordable keys are the standard keys that are available at most hardware stores. They are about $10 per key. If your vehicle is equipped with a key fob that can be used as a remote for unlocking and start the car, or a smart-key, which can only by replaced at an auto dealer, the cost of these keys is typically higher than the traditional one.

A locksmith can replace a smart key or key fob in most cases as long as they have the VIN number for your vehicle. This number is typically found on the metal plate that is on the driver's doorpost, or on the windshield. They will need evidence of ownership, like your registration or title.

You should always do your research before hiring locksmith. You can find qualified auto-locksmiths by searching online or asking family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using a fake key to start your vehicle could cause an infringement of warranty. The use of a key that is not authentic could cause damage to the lock on your vehicle. If you do not want to risk it then contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith for your car and wait until the dealer sends out a replacement key.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

Panic is one of the worst reactions you can have when you lose your keys. Relax, and then try to think about your situation. Most likely, you lost your keys because you misplaced them, instead of them being stolen. So, the next step is to trace your steps and find out where they disappeared. It may help to check places you would not normally check like pockets on your pants or coat, or in a bag you carry when running. Once you've checked all of these areas it's a good idea to call your insurance company.

Modern cars come with electronic keys that communicate with chips with the car. This communication allows the vehicle recognize the key fob and open the doors, and also start the engine. It's important that you immediately report the loss of your keys immediately to stop unauthorized persons from using your vehicle.

Some car insurance providers offer a policy add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. It's worth talking to your insurance provider to see whether they have this type of coverage or if you can find an individual locksmith who will cover the cost.

If your car has the standard mechanical key, you can have it replaced at most hardware stores for a small fee. If your car is equipped with an electronic key that is connected to your vehicle via the chip, you will have to visit your dealer to purchase a replacement. It's expensive however it's much cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.

Making an insurance claim due to the theft of your car key could increase your insurance costs. The insurance company could increase your premiums because they'll consider you to be a high-risk driver in the event of losing your key. Fortunately, you can often reduce the costs by purchasing a tracking device to locate your car key that has been lost car key with no spare or letting a locksmith design the new key without cloning the original.

4. Call a Tow truck

Nobody wants to lose their car keys. It's the most embarrassing thing that could occur. If it happens, it can be expensive to replace keys and get back on the road. This is why it's important to be prepared in case it happens, so that you don't have to call an tow truck and keep your money in your wallet.

Find your way back if you've lost car keys what to do your keys. This will help you locate them and ease your anxiety. Try to remember the actions you took prior to losing your keys, like picking up something from the supermarket or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you pinpoint your starting point.

If you can't locate your keys, How to Replace Lost Car Keys search in places where you may have placed them, such as the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or the bag that you carried them in to take them home. If you still can't find them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.

Another alternative is to make use of an bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are tiny devices that can be connected to your keyring and use an app installed on your phone that can show you where your keys are, so you don't need to look through every drawer or pocket in your home.

The cost of replacing lost car key can be a bit expensive according to the type of key that you own. You could save money when you use traditional car keys. A locksmith for automotive will typically be in a position to create a new key on the spot, but without the original. However, if you own a smart key that uses proximity sensors to open the door or turn on the engine, you'll need go to the dealer to get a replacement.

You should have a plan in place for the event that you lose your keys. This will spare you the hassle of paying for a tow-truck or locksmith. If you're exhausted or distracted, it's not difficult to lose your car keys. If you follow these steps, you can make sure that your keys don't disappear forever, and have backup plans in the event that they do.