How to Replace Lost Car Keys

It's a nightmare to lose your car keys. Not long ago this was not a big deal but it's getting more complicated as cars become technologically advanced.

Most of the time, you lose your keys due to the fact that you've reached into your pocket for something else and have accidentally thrown them away somewhere. Having an extra key at home will help you avoid these situations.

1. Call an expert locksmith

It's a fact that losing your car keys can be a major hassle. However, there's no need to be in a panic. If you know what to do and who to contact to get your car keys replaced should only take a couple of steps.

One of the first things you need to do is go back to where you started. It may seem simple however it can be hard to do if you are in a rush or worried about losing your car keys. Check all your pockets, bags and the surrounding area around your vehicle.

If you're unable to locate your car keys, you need to contact locksmith. Locksmiths are typically able to create a new key for your vehicle much faster than a dealership. They can also do it for less than the dealership would charge.

Some dealerships are able to create replacement car keys as well but they might not be able to do it for you immediately or even at all. They usually have a large number of customers, so they may not be able accommodate you right away. They may also not be able to create a exact copy of your current key.

You can also buy a replacement key online. They are available on Amazon and other websites for a lot less than what the price you purchase from a dealer although they may not be able to cut or program them to the specific model of car you have.

Certain insurance policies also cover the cost of replacing a stolen or healthndream.com lost car key. So, it's always worth checking whether you have coverage that will cover the cost of obtaining an additional key for your vehicle. Remember that you'll be required to provide proof of ownership and proof of identity to the person or company who creates the replacement key. This is required by law. If you're unable to provide proof of ownership, it could be very costly.

2. Call the Dealership

A few years ago, misplacing - or even losing your car keys was not a huge deal. You could easily find an alternative key from a dealership, and it wasn't too much to get it done. However, this is no longer the case, because cars are more modern and keys are more expensive. If you have lost your keys today, it's not uncommon to pay hundreds of dollars to get them replaced.

If you've lost your car keys, the first thing you need to do is to act in a calm manner. This will help you think clearly and make the best decision on how to fix the problem. It is also important to ensure that you have a backup set keys in your pocket or the trunk of your car, in case you lose the original keys and you lose them, you won't lose any money. Find out whether your warranty or insurance covers the cost of replacing a key. This can save you money in an emergency.

Next, search your car, your house and purse, or your wallet for keys missing. You could also retrace the steps you took, recollecting the last time you had your keys and where you were when you lost keys for car them. This will help you figure the location of your lost items, which is a huge relief.

If you've completed an exhaustive search but can't locate your car keys, the next option is to contact your dealership. Dealerships are familiar with the vehicle they are servicing and can provide you with keys to replace. However, they're usually full and cannot accommodate people on short notice, which could make the process frustrating.

If you are able to contact the dealership you're dealing with, they'll be able to create an original key for you based on the VIN number on the file. They can also reprogram the immobilizer device that's required to start your car. Locksmiths are a great option when you need a quick and reliable solution, without having to wait in the dealership.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing car keys was not a big issue. A locksmith could visit your home and duplicate your keys at a reasonable price. However, as cars have become more technologically advanced, so have the keys, and they're more expensive to replace than they were before.

Depending on the type of vehicle and the year, the process for replacing a lost car key can require several steps and cost you hundreds of dollars. It's always a good idea to have an extra set of car keys in your possession. This is particularly true when you live in a dangerous area or in an area with a high rate of theft.

While it may feel like a waste of time to call your insurance company, doing so could save you money in the end. Certain policies will cover the cost of a brand new car key, so be sure to check with your insurance agent prior to losing a key and find yourself in need.

Another thing to think about is whether your insurance policy offers roadside assistance. If it does, the insurance company might send a person out to assist you in your circumstance and it could be less stressful than dealing with a locksmith or a dealership.

Before calling your insurance company, make sure to thoroughly search for your keys. If you think they're in the car, try looking in the trunk and under the seat. Examine the pockets of your clothes as well as other places where you have been accustomed to putting them. You should also check the areas you may have put them, such as in your purse or a desk that is cluttered.

Contact your dealer to replace the keys once you've attempted to locate them. Usually this shouldn't be a problem and it is much less expensive than hiring a locksmith, or going through an insurance company.

While you're at the dealership, you might want to inquire about having a spare key made, especially if you don't have a key fob. In most cases the dealership will be able to make an extra key for you, without altering anything else in your vehicle. If you decide to do this, make sure to keep the key in a location that is secure and safe so that you can retrieve it if you lose it.

4. Call the police

Reporting lost car keys can help you find them and keep you safe. If someone drives your vehicle on public roads or private property without permission, the individual could be penalized. If you report the keys missing prior to the person making off with your vehicle, you'll know that there's an official paper trace of when it went missing and who reported it.

The loss of car keys is a frequent occurrence but it doesn't need to be a catastrophe. If you contact the right people, you'll able to get an alternative key quickly and easily. If you follow the tips in this article, you'll be able to avoid the possibility of losing your key again!

Follow your steps. This will give you a clear idea of where the key might be and can aid in remembering what you were doing at the time. For instance, if you were returning home from work and then went out to eat at the restaurant, you may be able to recall that the keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you are unable to locate your key, key you could have put it in the bag you carried around with things or on the table you ate at.

Another good idea is to share your primary loss online. This will increase your chances of locating the key by bringing it to a wider audience. You can also search local businesses and bulletin boards in the community.

It is essential to note down the VIN of your vehicle before you begin looking for your keys. You'll need this information to replace your key therefore it's essential to keep it safe. You'll usually find the VIN on your driver's license, however it may also appear on your insurance card or in the owner's manual for your car.

After you've exhausted all other options then it's time to call the police. They'll be capable of providing you with an interim replacement for your car and can prepare a police report that could be useful should the keys ever be found.