How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Things are often lost in the hustle of bringing children to and from school, running errands, and working. One of the most common items that go missing is the car keys.

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 easy.

1. Call Your Car Dealership

If you've lost your car key, the first place to contact is your car dealer. Most dealers keep track of every key that is designed for their vehicles, making it easy for them to find yours. The disadvantage is that going to the dealership can be expensive, so it's important to shop for a different one. You may be able to get a cheaper option through an auto locksmith.

In most instances, you'll need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, such as a copy of the registration or title, in order to get an alternative key from the dealership. The dealership will then request the new key and then pair it with your vehicle. This can be a lengthy procedure, and you'll have to wait for the dealer to complete the job.

Smart keys are a kind of key that is utilized in a lot of automobiles in the present. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, which allows for keyless entry and start. They are usually paired with ignitions that have a push-to-start feature. The dealer will sell you a smart key, but it is expensive. A local auto locksmith can design the smart key for a fraction of what you would buy from the dealership.

You can also purchase a replacement for the key you have always had at the local hardware store. They can create a standard key that is compatible with the lock cylinder of your vehicle. They will require the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you cannot locate the VIN on your car it will be engraved on a metal plaque that is placed on the dashboard or the driver's doorpost. Most automotive locksmiths are able to provide you with an alternative car key, even if you don't have the original. However, in some cases they may have to take apart the door lock and ignition in order to do this. This is not a dangerous job for a professional, but it requires some mechanical expertise and skills.

2. Contact a locksmith

The misplacing of your car keys is among of the most common reasons for roadside assistance and calls. Keep an extra car key with you and keep it safe. However, even the most careful people may lose their car keys lost replacement keys. You should check for the car keys and notify your insurance company immediately if you find it. This will lower the chance of your claim being denied later if your key is found stolen.

Calling a locksmith is the next best thing if you don't own a spare. Locksmiths are usually able to provide a replacement key for less than the dealership will cost. They can also come to your location to make keys right there, which is more convenient than having your vehicle taken back to the dealer.

The cost of replacing your car keys can vary depending on the model you own. The most affordable keys are the standard keys that can be bought at many hardware stores. They are priced at around $10 per key. If your car is equipped with the key fob, which acts like a remote and can unlock and start the engine or a smart-key, which can only be replaced by an auto dealer the keys will typically cost more than the traditional key.

In the majority of cases, an automotive locksmith will be able to replace keys fobs or a smart key as long as they can get the VIN number for your car it is usually located on a metal plate on the driver's side doorpost, or stamped into the windshield of the vehicle. They will also require proof that you own the car, such as an original registration or title.

Always do your research before hiring a locksmith. You can find reputable auto locksmiths through online search engines or asking family and friends for suggestions. Be aware that using an unauthorized key to start your vehicle could cause an infringement of warranty. The use of keys that are not authorized could damage your car's lock. If you do not want to take this risk then call roadside help instead of a locksmith for your car and wait until your dealer sends out 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 reason your situation. It is likely that you lost your keys due to you lost them, instead of having them taken. So, the next step is to retrace your steps and figure out the location where they were lost. You may want to look in places that you wouldn't normally look at such as the pockets of your pants, or a bag or coat that you use for running. After you've looked in these places you must contact your insurance provider.

Modern cars are fitted with electronic keys that connect to your vehicle via chip. This communication lets the car recognize the key fob and unlock the doors, as well as start the engine. If you lose your key, it's important to report this immediately so that unauthorized people don't get into your car and use it.

Some insurance companies offer an extra benefit to their policy that covers the cost of replacing a car key. Contact your insurance provider to find out if this type of insurance is offered or if a locksmith will cover the costs.

If your car uses a standard mechanical key, you'll be able to have it replaced at a variety of hardware stores at a cost of a small amount. However, if your vehicle is equipped with an electronic key fob that's connected to your car via the chip, you'll need go to the dealership to request an upgrade. It can be costly but it's also more cost-effective than hiring a locksmith.

In addition to the cost of replacing your car keys and submitting an insurance claim to replace a lost key can cause your insurance rates to rise. Your insurance company may increase your premiums because they will consider you a high-risk motorist because you lost your key. Fortunately, you can avoid the extra expenses by buying a tracking device that can track your lost car key or having a locksmith create the new key without cloning the original.

4. Call a Tow Truck

No one wants to lose their car keys. It's the most embarrassing thing that can happen. However, if it does happen it could be costly to replace the lost key and get back on the road. This is why it's important to be prepared in case it does, so you don't have to call a tow truck, and keep your money in your wallet.

When you've lost your car keys, the first step is to retrace your steps. This will help you find the keys and calm your panic. Make a list of what you did prior to losing your keys, like grabbing something at the grocery store or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you find your starting point.

If you're unable to locate your keys, search for 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 unable to locate them, take a few minutes to relax and then call a locksmith or a tow truck.

Another alternative is to use an bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are tiny devices can be connected to your keyring, and also have an app on your phone that will reveal where your keys are, so you don't have to go through every drawer or pocket within your home.

The cost to replace a car key that is lost may differ based on the type of key you have. If you have a traditional key an automotive locksmith will typically make a new one in a matter of minutes without the original, which will save you some money. However, if you own an electronic key that relies on proximity sensors to open the door or start the engine, you'll need to go to the dealership to purchase a new one.

It is essential to have a plan in case you lose your car keys, so that you can avoid the hassle of having to pay for a tow truck or a locksmith. If you're exhausted or distracted, it's not difficult to lose your keys to your car. If you follow these steps, you can make sure that your keys don't disappear forever, cost and have an alternative plan in case they happen to disappear.