How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Things can get lost in the rush of bringing kids to and from school, completing errands and working. One of the most frequent items that go missing is the car keys.

In the past you could easily replace this at the local locksmith or hardware store. This isn't the situation any more.

1. Contact Your Car Dealership

If you've lost your car key, the first place you should call is your car dealer. The majority of car dealers keep records of each key they make for their vehicles, which means they should be able to find yours. The drawback is that going to the dealership can be costly, so it's important to look for a different one. You might be able get a cheaper option through an automotive locksmith.

In the majority of cases, you will need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and evidence of ownership, such as an original registration or title, in order to obtain an alternative key from the dealer. The dealership will order an alternative key and connect it to your vehicle. This can be a lengthy process, and you'll need to wait until the dealer has completed the process.

Smart keys are a form of key that is utilized in a variety of cars in the present. These keys are designed for a proximity sensor that can be activated inside the car, which allows keyless entry and start. They are usually used with ignitions that require a push-to start. Dealers will offer you a smart key but it is expensive. Local auto locksmiths can make you a smart key for less than the cost.

You can also get a replacement for the key you have always had at the local hardware store. They will be able to make a standard key that fits the lock cylinder of your vehicle. They will need to know the year of manufacture of your vehicle, as well as the VIN. If you are unable to locate the VIN, it is usually stamped on a metal plate that is located on the driver's side doorpost or dashboard. Most locksmiths in the automotive industry can provide you with an alternative car key even if they don't have the original. In certain instances the locksmith might need to disassemble the ignition and door locks in order to complete the task. This is not a dangerous job for a professional, but it does require some mechanical knowledge and skill.

2. Contact for a locksmith

The most frequent reason for roadside assistance is when you've lost your car keys. Keep a spare car key with you and keep it safe. However, even the most careful people can lose their car keys. You should check for the car keys and notify your insurance company immediately if you discover it. This will lower the chance of your claim being denied later in the event that your key is stolen.

A locksmith's call is the next best thing when you don't have an extra. Locksmiths can usually offer a replacement key for less than the dealership will cost. They can also usually come out to your location and make the key right there and is more efficient than having to take your vehicle back to the dealership.

The cost of replacing your car keys will differ based on the kind of key you own. Traditional keys are able to be replaced at most hardware stores for $10 each, are the most affordable. If your car has a key fob, which functions as a remote and can unlock and start the engine, or a smart-key, which can only be replaced by an auto dealer, these keys will usually cost more than the standard key.

In most cases, misplaced an automotive locksmith will be able to replace keys fobs or a smart key as long as they have the VIN number for your car, which is typically found on a metal plaque on the driver's side doorpost, or in the windshield of the vehicle. They will also need proof that you own the car by providing a copy of your registration or title.

Some locksmiths aren't licensed or insured, so be sure to investigate them prior to hiring them. You can find auto-locksmiths who are certified by searching on the internet, or asking family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using an unauthorized key to start your car could lead to a breach of warranty. The use of keys that are not authorized could cause damage to the lock of your vehicle. If you do not wish to risk it you should call roadside assistance instead of a car locksmith and wait until your dealer sends out a replacement key.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

Panic is one of the most unpleasant reactions you could experience when you lose your keys. Relax, and then try to rationalize your situation. It is more likely you misplaced your keys than they were stolen. The next step is to go back through the steps you took and try to locate the place where your keys went missing. You may want to look in places that you wouldn't normally look at such as the pockets of your pants or bag or coat that you use to run in. Once you've checked all of these areas, it's a good idea call your insurance company.

Most modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that connect to your car through a chip. This allows the car to recognize the key fob, and then open the doors, as well as start the engine. If you lose your key, it's important to notify the police immediately so that unauthorized people aren't able to enter your vehicle and use it.

Certain insurance companies provide an additional benefit to their policies that will cover the cost of a replacement car key. It is worth contacting your insurance provider to see whether they have this type of insurance or if they can locate an individual locksmith who will 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 vehicle has an electronic key fob, which is connected to your car via the chip, you'll have to go to your dealership to request an upgrade. This can be expensive however it's cheaper than hiring locksmith.

Filing an insurance claim because of a stolen car key can increase your insurance rates. Your insurance company could increase your premiums as they'll view you as a high-risk driver in the event of losing your key. You can cut down on these additional expenses by purchasing a tracking device that will locate your lost key or hiring a professional locksmith to design keys without copying the previous key.

4. Contact for a Tow Truck

Everyone would hate to lose their car keys. It's the most embarrassing scenario that could happen. If it does happen it could be costly to replace keys and get back on the road. It's why it's important to be prepared for when it does, so you don't have to call a tow truck, and keep your cash in your wallet.

When you've lost car keys how to replace your car keys, the very first thing to do is trace your steps. This will allow you to locate them and ease your anxiety. You may remember doing something at the grocery store or putting 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, check places in which they could be, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing or the bag you put them in after you returned home. If you still can't find them, give yourself some time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.

A bluetooth key tracker can also be used with your phone. These are tiny devices can be attached to your keyring and have 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 car key that is lost may differ depending on the type of key you own. You can save money if you have traditional car keys. A locksmith for automotive will typically be in a position to create a new key on the spot, without the original. But if you have a smart key that uses the proximity sensor to open the door or start the engine, you'll have to go to the dealership to get a replacement.

It's essential to have a plan in place for when you lose your car keys, so that you will not have the hassle of having to pay for a tow truck or a locksmith. It's easy for you to forget your car keys when you're exhausted after a long day, or when your attention is focused on other things. If you follow these steps, you can ensure that your keys won't disappear forever. You should also have backup plans in case they do.