How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Losing car keys is a nightmare. It wasn't that long ago, it wasn't a big issue, but it's becoming more complicated as cars get technologically advanced.

You can lose your keys when you accidentally knock them off the table while reaching into your pocket to grab something other. You can avoid such situations by keeping an extra key at home.

1. Contact a locksmith

The loss of your car keys can be an extremely frustrating experience. However, there's no need to panic. If you know what to do and who to call, getting your car keys changed should be a matter of a few steps.

Try to go back the steps you made. This might sound like a simple task but it can be difficult to do when you're in a rush or you're already worried about the loss of keys to your car. Examine all pockets, bags, and the area around your vehicle.

Call a locksmith if you can't find your car keys. Locksmiths can usually create keys for your vehicle faster than the dealership. Plus, they can usually complete the task for much less than what a dealership would charge you.

Some dealerships are able to create keys for replacement to cars but they might not be able do it in a hurry or even at all. There are many dealerships that receive a high volume of clients and therefore may not be able to accommodate you immediately. In addition, they may not be able to create an exact copy of your key.

You can also purchase a replacement key online. Keys can be purchased on Amazon and other websites at a lower cost than you would pay the dealer. However, they might not be able to cut and program keys that are specific to your car model.

Some insurance policies will cover the cost of replacing a lost or stolen vehicle key. It is worth examining your insurance policy to see whether it covers the cost of a replacement car key lost key. Remember that you'll need to provide proof of ownership to the person or business who makes your replacement key. This is required by law. If you're not able provide proof of ownership, it can be very costly.

2. Call the Dealership

In the past, misplacing - or even losing - your car keys was not a huge deal. You could easily get a replacement key at the dealership and it didn't cost much to do it. However, with cars getting more advanced in technology and keys becoming more expensive to replace it's not as simple as it used to be. If you lose your keys today, it's not uncommon to spend several hundred dollars to have them replaced.

If you've lost your car keys the first thing you should do is to act in a calm manner. This will help you think clearly and make the right choice about how to resolve the problem. If you lose your original keys, you should keep an extra set of keys in your purse or car trunk. This will ensure that you're not out of money. It is also important to determine if the replacement is covered by your warranty or insurance for your car which could assist you in saving money in the event of a financial crisis.

The next step is to do a thorough search of your home, vehicle, and your purse or wallet to find keys that are missing. You can also try to retrace your steps, remembering the last place you had them and where you were when you lost them. This could help you figure out the location they went to and could be a huge relief.

Call your dealership if you haven't been able to find your keys after an exhaustive search. Dealerships are familiar with the specific car you have, so they're the best option for a replacement key. They're often busy and can't accommodate people who require a quick response. This can cause the process to be difficult.

If you're able to get a hold of your dealer they'll be able to create an original key for you in accordance with the VIN number that is on file. They can also modify your immobilizer system, which is necessary to start your car. But if you're looking for an immediate, reliable solution that doesn't involve waiting in the dealership, a locksmith may be the best option.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

It wasn't long ago that losing car keys was not a major issue. Locksmiths could come to your home and duplicate your keys at a reasonable price. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced, keys have also become more expensive.

Based on the type of car you drive and year, replacing a lost key can be a long process that can cost hundreds of dollars. It's always a good idea to have an extra set of car keys in your pocket. This is especially important when you live in an area of danger or an area with an abundance of theft.

It may seem like a waste to call your insurer, Replace Lost Car Keys but it can save you money in the long run. Certain policies will cover the cost of replacing a car key, so be sure to speak with your insurance provider prior to losing a key and find yourself in need.

If your policy provides roadside assistance, you should also think about this. If you have roadside assistance, someone could come to your aid. This is less stressful than dealing with a dealership or locksmith.

Make sure you thoroughly search your car before you call your insurance provider. If you believe they're in the car, check the trunk and under the seat. If you're at home check the pockets of the clothes you were wearing and in other places you might be prone to putting them. Make sure you check any places you might have left them. For example, your purse or in a messy office.

Contact your dealer to replace the keys after you've tried to find them. This is usually not an issue and is cheaper than calling a locksmith or visiting the insurance company.

While you're at the dealer, you might want to ask about having a spare key made, particularly if you don't have a key fob. Your dealership can usually clone an additional key for you without having to alter anything else in your car. If you choose to do this, be sure you keep the key in a safe and replace lost car keys secure location so that you can find it next time you lose yours.

4. Contact the police

Not only will reporting your lost car keys to the police help you find keys however, it can also help protect you from thieves. If someone drives your vehicle on public roads or on private property without permission, the person could be penalized. You can protect yourself by reporting your keys stolen before someone else steals your vehicle. This will leave a trail of paper that will show when and who reported the theft.

Car keys are lost is a common problem but it doesn't need to be a disaster. You can replace your car key quickly and easily if call the right people. If you follow the tips in this article, you'll even be able to prevent any future key loss!

Retrace your steps. This will give you an idea of where your key could be and can help you remember what you were doing at the time. If you were driving to work, then stopped at a restaurant to get some food and drinks, you might remember that your keys were in your pocket when you left your vehicle. If you cannot find your key, you might have put it in the bag that you carried around with things or on the table you dined at.

Posting your lost key online is another good idea. This will increase the likelihood of finding the key by bringing it to a wider audience. You can also search local businesses and bulletin boards for community groups.

Before you start looking for your keys, you need to write down the VIN number of your vehicle. This information is required to replace your keys, which is why you must keep it safe. The VIN is typically located on your driver's license but it's also on your insurance card or in your car's owner's guide.

If you've exhausted all other options, it's time to call the police. They'll be capable of providing you with an interim replacement for your vehicle and also make a report that could be useful if the keys are ever discovered.