How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Things are often lost in the chaos of bringing children to and from school, completing errands and working. Car keys are one of the most commonly lost key fob items.

In the past, this was not a big deal because you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. Today, it's not as simple.

1. Call Your Car Dealership

If you have lost your car keys, the first place you should contact is your local car dealer. The majority of car dealers keep a log of every key that is made for their vehicles making it easy for them to locate your keys. The disadvantage is that going to the dealership can be costly, so it's important to look for a different one. You may be able to locate a lower cost solution by using an auto locksmith.

You'll likely have to provide the dealership with your vehicle identification number, or VIN, as well as evidence of ownership (such as a copy of your registration or title) to obtain a replacement key. The dealership will then purchase a new key and pair it with your vehicle. This could be a long procedure, and you'll have to wait until the dealer has completed the job.

A lot of cars today have a special type of key known as a smart key. These keys are designed to use 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. You can buy a new smart key from the dealership, but the price is very high. A local auto locksmith can design an intelligent key for you at a fraction of what you would purchase from a dealership.

You can also purchase an old-fashioned key replacement from your local hardware store. They will be able to make a standard key that is compatible with the lock cylinder of your vehicle. They will need the VIN and the model year. If you cannot locate the VIN on your vehicle it will be engraved on a plaque made of metal that is located on the dashboard or doorpost. Most automotive locksmiths can offer the replacement for your car key, even if you don't have the original. In some instances the locksmith might need to disassemble the ignition and door locks to accomplish this. This isn't a risky job for a professional, however it requires some mechanical knowledge and skill.

2. Contact a locksmith

The most frequent reason for roadside assistance is because you've lost your car keys. Keep a spare car key in your bag and store it in a safe place. However even the most vigilant people can lose their car keys. It is essential to search thoroughly for the key and to inform your insurance company as quickly as possible in order to decrease your chances of being denied a claim if the key is found later stolen.

If you don't have an extra key lost (click to find out more), the best option is to contact a locksmith. Locksmiths can usually provide a key replacement at less than the cost a dealership would charge. They can also come to your home to make keys right there which is much more convenient than having your vehicle taken back to the dealer.

The type of car key you have can affect the cost of replacing it. Traditional keys, which can be replaced at most hardware stores for key lost about $10 each and key lost are the cheapest. If your vehicle is equipped with an ignition key that can be used as a remote to lock and start the car, or a smart-key that can only by replaced at an auto dealer, the cost of these keys is typically higher than the traditional one.

In most instances, an automotive locksmith can replace the key fob or smart key if they have the VIN number for your vehicle, which is typically found on a metal plaque on your driver's side doorpost or in the windshield of the vehicle. They will need proof of ownership, like your registration or title.

It is essential to do your homework prior to hiring locksmith. You can find qualified auto-locksmiths through online search engines, or asking family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using an unauthorized key to start your vehicle could cause an infringement of warranty. Using unauthorized keys may also cause damage to the lock of your vehicle. If you do not wish to take this risk you should call roadside help instead of a car locksmith and wait until the dealer provides a replacement key.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

One of the most dangerous things you can do when you lose your car keys is to panic. Take a deep breath, and then try to reason your situation. Most likely, you lost your keys because you lost keys replacement them, instead of having them stolen. The next step is to trace your steps and try to find out where they were lost. It may help to look in places you don't normally look for items, like pockets on your pants or coat, or in the bag you carry for running. Once you've checked all of these areas, it's a good idea contact your insurance company.

Modern cars come with electronic keys that communicate via a chip with the car. This communication process allows the vehicle to recognize and unlock the doors and then start the engine. If you lose your keys it is important to report this immediately to ensure that anyone who isn't authorized don't get into your car and use it.

Certain insurance companies provide 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 provide this kind of protection or if you can locate an individual locksmith that will pay for the cost.

If your car is equipped with a standard mechanical key, you can replace it at a variety of hardware stores at a cost of a small amount. If, however, your car has an electronic key fob that's linked to your vehicle via the chip, you'll need to go to your dealership for an upgrade. This can be expensive but it's also cheaper than hiring a locksmith.

In addition to the cost of replacing your car keys and filing an insurance claim for the loss of a key could cause your car insurance rates to increase. Your insurance company could increase your premiums because they'll consider you to be an extremely risky driver in the event of losing your key. You can avoid these extra expenses by purchasing a tracking device that will locate your lost key or hiring a professional locksmith to design a key without cloning the previous key.

4. Call a Tow truck

It's one of the most difficult things to lose your car keys, and nobody wants to experience this. If it does happen, it can be expensive to replace keys and get back on the road. It's essential to be prepared in order that you don't have to call a tow-truck and can keep your money.

Find your way back if you've lost your keys. This can help you determine where they are and can aid in calming your panic. Try to recall what you did prior to losing your keys, such as grabbing something at the supermarket or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you determine where you should start.

If you are unable to locate your keys, check places where you may have put them, such as the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or in the bag that you used to carry them to home. If you're still not able to locate them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.

A key tracker bluetooth can also be used with your phone. These are tiny devices that can be connected to your keyring, and also have an app on your phone that will let you know where your keys are so you don't have to go through every drawer or pocket in your house.

The cost of replacing a lost car key can vary depending on what kind of key you have. You could save money in the case of an old-fashioned car key. A locksmith for automotive is usually capable of making a replacement immediately, and without the original. If you are using a smart-key that utilizes a proximity detector to open the doors or start the engine of your vehicle, you will need go to the dealer to obtain a replacement.

It is important to have a plan in case you lose your keys. This will save you the expense of the tow-truck or locksmith. When you're stressed or distracted, it's not difficult to lose your keys to your car. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your keys won't disappear forever, and you'll have an alternative plan in case they do.