How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Losing car keys is a nightmare. It wasn't that long ago, this was not a big problem, but it's now becoming more complicated as cars become technologically advanced.

You could lose your keys when you accidentally knock them off the table when you reach into your pocket to find something else. You can avoid this by keeping a spare key in your home.

1. Call a Locksmith

The loss of your car keys can be an extremely frustrating experience. However, there's no need to panic. As long as you know who to contact and what you should do, it should only take just a few steps to have your keys to your car replaced.

You should try to retrace the steps you took. It might seem simple, but it can be difficult to do if are in a hurry or already worried about losing your car keys. Check all your pockets, bags and the space around your vehicle.

If you're unable to locate your car keys, it's time to call a locksmith. Locksmiths can usually make keys for your car much faster than a dealership. Additionally, they are able to do it for a lot less than what a dealership would charge you.

Some dealerships are able to create keys for cars that are replacements, but they may not be able to do it in a hurry or even at all. They often have a very large number of customers, so they may not be able to assist you right away. In addition, they might not be able to make an exact replica of your key.

Another option is to purchase an online replacement for your car key. You can find these on Amazon and other sites at a much lower cost than what you would buy from a dealer, but they may not be able to cut them and program them to the specific model of car you have.

Certain insurance policies cover the cost of replacing lost keys a lost key what to do or stolen vehicle key. It's worthwhile to check if you have coverage which will help pay for the cost of getting the new key for your vehicle. Be aware that you'll need provide proof of ownership to the person or remote business who makes your replacement key. This is required by law. If you're unable to provide proof of ownership, it can be very costly.

2. Contact the Dealership

It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys was not an issue. It was not expensive to purchase a new key from a dealer. This is not the case anymore, as cars are more advanced and keys are more expensive. It's not uncommon to shell out hundreds of dollars for a new set of keys when you lose them.

If you've lost your car keys first thing you need to do is be calm. This will help you think clearly and make a good decision. Also, make sure that you have a backup set keys somewhere else, such as in your pocket or the trunk of your car in case you lose the originals and you lose them, you won't lose any money. Find out whether your warranty or insurance covers the cost of a key replacement. This can help you save money in the event of a crisis.

Then, look in your car, your house, your purse, or your wallet for keys missing. You can also go back through the steps you followed, and remember the last time you had your keys and where you were at the time you lost them. This may be able to help you determine where they went and can be a huge relief.

Call your dealership if you haven't been able to find your keys after a thorough search. Dealerships are familiar with your specific vehicle, so they're the best option for a replacement key. However, they're often busy and can't accommodate people on short notice, which can make the process difficult.

If you are able to get in touch with the dealership, they'll be able to make keys for you based on the VIN number that is saved on their system. They can also modify your immobilizer, which is necessary to start your vehicle. Locksmiths are a great option if you want a quick and reliable solution that doesn't require you to wait in the dealership.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

In the past, misplacing your car keys wasn't a big deal. A locksmith could visit your home and duplicate your keys at a reasonable price. As cars have become more technologically advanced, the keys are also becoming more expensive.

Depending on the type of vehicle and year, replacing a lost key can be a lengthy procedure that could cost hundreds of dollars. That's why it's always an excellent idea to keep an extra set of keys on your side, especially if you live in a dangerous neighborhood or in a location where theft is commonplace.

It may seem like a waste to contact your insurance company, but it can save you money in the long run. Talk to your agent to determine whether you are able to get a replacement car key that is covered by your policy.

Another thing to consider is whether your insurance policy provides roadside assistance. If you have roadside assistance, a person could come to your aid. This is less stressful than dealing with a dealer or locksmith.

Make sure you thoroughly search your vehicle before you call your insurance provider. If you believe they're in the car, check inside the trunk and beneath the seat. Check the pockets of your clothes as well as other places where you may have been accustomed to putting them. You should also double-check the areas you may have left them, like your purse or a cluttered desk.

Once you've done your best to locate your keys to your car, it's a good idea to call your dealer to have them replaced. Most of the time it won't be a problem and will cost less than hiring a locksmith or going through the insurance company.

Ask the dealer to create an extra key for you, especially if your car doesn't have a remote. Your dealership can usually clone an additional key for you without needing to change anything else in your car. If you choose to do this, be sure to keep the key in a secure and safe place so that you can locate it the next time you lose it.

4. Call the police

Reporting your lost car keys can help you find them and ensure your safety. If a person drives your car on public streets or on private property without permission, the driver could be penalized. You can help protect yourself by reporting your keys stolen prior to someone stealing your car. This will leave a trail of paper that shows when and who reported the theft.

The loss of car keys is a frequent occurrence but it doesn't need to be a disaster. You can obtain a replacement car key quickly and easily if call the right people. If you follow the suggestions in this article, you'll be able to prevent future key misplacements!

First, try to retrace your steps. This will give you a clear idea of where your keys might be and can aid in remembering what you were doing at the time. For example, if you were returning home from work and then went out to eat at a restaurant, you might be able to recall keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you're unable to locate your keys, remote it could be in the bag you used to carry things around or on the table at which you sat down for dinner.

Posting your key online is another good idea. This will reach a large audience and increase your chances of finding it. You can also check with local businesses and other community bulletin boards.

It is essential to write down the VIN of your vehicle before you start searching for your keys. This information is required to replace your keys, which is why it's important to keep it in a safe place. You can 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 vehicle.

After you've exhausted all other options then it's time to call the police. You can get a temporary replacement car from the police department, and they will also file an investigation report that can be helpful if your keys are ever found.