How to Replace Lost Car Keys

In the hustle of taking children to school, running errands and working it is common for things to get lost. Car keys are one of the most commonly lost items.

In the past, you could easily replace this at your local hardware or locksmith store. However, nowadays, it isn't as simple.

1. Call Your Car Dealership

If you have lost your car key, the first place to contact is your local car dealer. The majority of dealers keep records of every key made for their cars, so they are likely to be able find yours. The downside is that visiting the dealership can be costly, so it's important to look for a different one. You might be able find a cheaper solution by using an auto locksmith.

In the majority of instances, you'll have to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and evidence of ownership, such as a copy of your registration or title, to obtain a replacement key from the dealer. The dealership will then order an alternative key and connect it with your vehicle. This can be a lengthy procedure, and you'll need to wait for the dealer to finish the job.

Many vehicles today come with a special type of key known as a smart keys. These keys are designed to use a proximity sensor to be activated inside the car, allowing keyless entry and starting. They are usually used with ignitions that require a push-to-start. Dealers will offer you a smart key, but it's costly. A local auto locksmith can make an intelligent key for you for a fraction of what you'd purchase from a dealership.

You can also replace your classic key at your local hardware store. They can create a standard lock cylinder key. They'll need the model year of your car and the VIN. If you can't locate the VIN it's typically stamped on a metal plaque found on the driver's doorpost or dashboard. Most locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to provide you with a car key replacement, even if you don't have the original. In certain instances, the locksmith may have to remove the ignition and door locks in order to do this. This is not a risky job for a professional, but it requires some mechanical skills and knowledge.

2. Contact a locksmith

The most common reason for roadside assistance is that you have lost key in car your car keys. It's important to keep a spare key handy with you and make sure it's somewhere safe. However, even the most careful people may lose their car keys. It is important to look for the car key and inform your insurance company immediately if you discover it. This will lower the likelihood of your claim being denied if your key is found stolen.

Contacting a locksmith is the next best option when you don't have an extra key. Locksmiths can usually offer a replacement key for less than the cost a dealership would charge. They can also visit your location to make the key right there, which is more convenient than having your car brought back to the dealer.

The cost of replacing your car keys will vary based on the model you own. Traditional keys that can be exchanged at the majority of hardware stores for around $10 each and are the cheapest. If your car has an ignition key fob that acts as a remote that can be used to unlock and start the engine or a smart key which can only be replaced by a dealership and will typically cost more than the traditional key.

A locksmith can replace keys that are smart or fob in most cases so long as they have the VIN number of your vehicle. This is usually found on the metal plate that is on the driver's doorpost or stamped on the windshield. They will require evidence of ownership, like your registration or title.

Some locksmiths are not licensed or insured, so be sure to investigate them prior to hiring them. You can locate reputable auto locksmiths by searching online or asking friends and family for suggestions. Be aware that using a fake key to start your car could lead to a breach of warranty. Using unauthorized keys may also cause damage to your car's lock. If you don't want to risk it you should call roadside help instead of a locksmith for your car and wait until the dealer provides a replacement key.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

Panic is among the most negative reactions you can have when you lose your key. The first thing to do is take your breath and try to think about the situation. Most likely, you lost your keys because you misplaced them, rather than having them taken. So, the next step is to retrace your steps and find out where they disappeared. 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 come with electronic keys that communicate through an electronic chip with the car. This communication process allows the vehicle to recognize and unlock the doors and then start the engine. It is essential to report the loss of your key immediately to prevent unauthorized individuals from using your vehicle.

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

It is possible to replace a mechanical key in most hardware stores at a reasonable cost. If, however, your car is equipped with an electronic key fob that is connected to your car via the chip, you'll need to visit your dealer to get a replacement. This can be expensive however it's more cost-effective than hiring a locksmith.

Filing an insurance claim due to a car key that was stolen can increase your insurance costs. This is because your insurance company will consider you an extremely risky driver for the loss of your car keys, and may raise your premiums in order to offset the cost of making an insurance claim. Fortunately, you can save yourself the cost of purchasing a tracking device to track your lost car lost key key or having a locksmith create the new key without cloning the original.

4. Contact a Tow truck

Nobody wants to lose their car keys. It is the worst thing that could happen. If it does happen it could be costly to replace keys and get back on the road. That's why it's best to be prepared for when it happens, so you can avoid having to call a tow truck, and keep your money in your wallet.

Retrace your steps in case you've lost your keys. This will help you locate them and calm your panic. You might remember doing something in the grocery store, or dropping your keys on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you determine your place of origin.

If you're unable to locate your keys, check 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're still unable to locate them, give yourself some time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.

A bluetooth key tracker can also be used with your phone. These are tiny devices that you can attach to a keyring and an app on your smartphone will display the location of your keys.

The cost of replacing a lost car key can be a bit expensive according to the type of key you have. You can save money when you use traditional car keys. An automotive locksmith will typically be capable of making a replacement immediately, and without the original. If you are using a smart-key that utilizes a proximity detector How to Replace Lost Car Keys to open the doors or turn on the engine of your vehicle, you will need to visit a dealership to get a replacement.

It is important to have a plan in case you lose your keys. This will spare you the hassle of having to pay for an tow-truck or locksmith. It's easy to lose your car keys when you're exhausted after a long day, or when your mind is busy with other things. By following these tips you can ensure that your keys won't disappear forever, and you'll have backup plans in case they do.