How to Replace Lost Car Keys

In the shuffle of taking children to school, running errands and working, things have a tendency to be lost. Car keys are one of the most commonly lost items.

In the past, this was not an issue since you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. This isn't the situation any more.

1. Call 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 each key made for their vehicles therefore it should be simple for them to find your key. The disadvantage is that going to the dealership can be costly so it's crucial to look for a different one. You might be able locate a lower cost solution through an automotive locksmith.

In most cases, you will need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and evidence of ownership, such as an original title or registration, to obtain a replacement key from the dealership. The dealership will then purchase an additional key and connect it with your vehicle. The dealer will have to complete this lengthy procedure.

Many vehicles today are equipped with keys that are specialized known as a smart key. These keys are designed to use a proximity sensor that can be activated inside the car, which allows keyless entry and starting. These keys are often paired with ignitions that require a push to start. You can purchase a new smart key from a dealership, but the price is a bit expensive. Local auto locksmiths can give you a smart key for only a fraction of the cost.

You can also replace your key with a new one at the local hardware store. They can make you the standard lock cylinder keys. They'll 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 that is placed on the dashboard or the driver's doorpost. Even if you don't have the original, most locksmiths in the automotive industry can offer an alternate car key. However, in certain instances they might need to remove the door and ignition in order to do this. It's not a risky job, but it requires some knowledge of mechanics.

2. Call a Locksmith

Losing your car keys is one of the most common causes for roadside assistance or callouts. It's essential to keep a spare key with you and make sure you keep it in a safe place. Even the most careful people can lose their keys. It is important to look for the car keys and inform your insurance provider immediately if you find it. This will reduce the likelihood of your claim being denied in the event that your key is stolen.

If you don't have a spare key, your next best option is to contact the locksmith. Locksmiths can usually provide a replacement key for less than the dealership would charge. They will usually visit your place and make the key on the spot, which is much more convenient than having to bring your vehicle back to the dealership.

The cost of replacing your car keys will differ based on the model you own. The most affordable keys are traditional keys that can be purchased at many hardware stores. They are about $10 per key. If your car has an ignition key fob that acts as a remote that 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 traditional key.

In most cases, an automotive locksmith can replace keys fobs or a smart key if they have the VIN number for your vehicle, which is typically found on a metal plaque on the driver's side of the doorpost or stamped into the windshield of the car. They will require evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.

Some locksmiths aren't licensed or insured, so make sure to do your research prior to hiring. You can find auto-locksmiths who are certified by searching online or asking family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using a fake key to start your vehicle could result in an infringement of warranty. Using unauthorized key may also cause damage to the lock on your car. 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

One of the worst things you could do when you lose your car keys is to panic. Take a deep breath and then try to rationalize your situation. Most likely, you lost your keys due to you lost the car key them, instead of them being stolen. The next step is to retrace the steps you took and attempt to find out the location where your keys went missing. It may help to look in places you don't normally look, such as pockets in your coat or pants or in the bag you use for running. After you've inspected all these places it's a good idea contact your insurance company.

Modern cars come with electronic keys that communicate with a chip with the car. This communication allows the vehicle recognize the key fob and unlock the doors, as well as start the engine. If you lose your key lost in Car it is important to report this immediately so that unauthorized people don't get into your car and use it.

Certain car insurance companies provide a policy add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost car key. It's worth talking to your insurance provider to see whether they have this type of insurance or if you can find an individual locksmith that can pay for the cost.

You can usually get a replacement for a mechanical key in many hardware stores at a reasonable price. However, if your car is equipped with an electronic key fob that is paired with your car through the chip, you'll have to visit your dealer to get the replacement. It can be costly however it's cheaper than hiring locksmith.

In addition to the cost of replacing your car keys, filing an insurance claim to replace a lost key can cause your car insurance rates to increase. Your insurance company could raise your premiums due to the fact that they will consider you a high-risk motorist in the event of losing your key. Fortunately, you can often avoid the extra expenses by buying a tracking device that can track your lost car key or having a locksmith make an entirely new key without copying the original.

4. Call a tow truck

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

Follow your steps if you've lost your keys. This will allow you to locate them and calm your panic. You might recall doing something at the grocery store, or dropping your keys on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you determine where you should start.

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 got home. If you are unable to find them, take some time to relax, and then call an locksmith or a tow truck.

A key tracker with bluetooth can be used with your phone. These are tiny devices that you can attach to your keyring and use an app installed on your phone that will reveal where your keys are, so you don't need to look through every pocket or drawer in your house.

The cost to replace a lost car key can differ depending on the type of key you have. If you have a traditional key that is used for automotive, a locksmith can typically make a new one in a matter of minutes without the original, which can save you money. However, if you own a smart key that uses proximity sensors to open the door or turn on the engine, you'll need to go to the dealership to purchase a new one.

You must have a plan for when you lose your keys. This will save you the hassle of paying for an tow-truck or locksmith. It's easy to forget your car keys when you're exhausted after a long day, or when your mind is on other things. But by following these tips you can ensure that your keys won't vanish forever, and you have a backup plan for when they do.