How to Replace Lost Car Keys

In the rush of taking children to school, running errands and working it is common for things to become lost. Car keys are among of the most commonly lost items.

In the past you could easily change this at your local hardware or locksmith store. Today, it's not as simple.

1. Call Your Car Dealership

Your car dealer is the first person you should call if you lose your key. Most dealers keep track of every key made for their vehicles, making it easy for them to track down yours. It's expensive to go to a dealership, so you should look around. You may be able to find a cheaper solution through an automotive locksmith.

You will most likely need to give the dealership your vehicle identification number, or VIN, along with evidence of ownership (such as a copy registration or title) to obtain an alternative key. The dealership will request an alternative key and connect it with your vehicle. This can be a lengthy process, and you'll be waiting until the dealer has completed the job.

A lot of cars today are equipped with a special type of key known as a smart keys. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor inside the vehicle, which allows the use of a keyless entry system and even starting. These keys are typically used with ignitions that require a push-to start. You can purchase a brand new smart key from the dealership, but the price is very high. A local auto locksmith can make an intelligent key for you for a fraction of what you would pay at the dealership.

You can also replace the key you have always had at your local hardware store. They can create an ordinary lock cylinder key. They will need the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you're unable to find the VIN, it is usually stamped on a metal plaque that is located on the driver's side doorpost or the dashboard. Even if you don't have the original, most locksmiths in the automotive industry can offer a replacement car key. In some instances the locksmith might need to disassemble the door lock and ignition in order to complete the task. This is not a dangerous job for a professional, but it requires some mechanical skills and knowledge.

2. Call a Locksmith

The most common reason for seeking roadside assistance is when you've lost your car keys. It is essential to keep a spare key handy with your person and ensure that it's safe. Even the most careful people may lose their keys. It's important to check thoroughly for the keys and notify your insurance company as quickly as possible to reduce the chance of being denied a claim if the key is found later stolen.

If you don't have an extra key, the best option is to call an locksmith. Locksmiths can usually provide a key replacement for less than the cost a dealership would charge. They can also visit your location to make keys right there, which is more convenient than having your vehicle brought back to the dealer.

The cost of replacing your car key will differ based on the kind of key you own. Keys with traditional designs are able to be replaced at most hardware stores for $10 each, are the most affordable. If your car is equipped with a key fob, Broken which acts like a remote and can unlock and start the engine or a smart key, which can only be replaced by a dealership, these keys will usually cost more than a traditional key.

A locksmith can replace a smart key or key fob in most cases so long they have the VIN number of your vehicle. It is usually located on the metal plaque on the driver's doorpost or on the windshield. They will require proof of ownership, such as your registration or title.

Some locksmiths are not licensed or insured, so make sure to investigate them prior to hiring. You can find auto-locksmiths who are certified by searching on the internet, or asking family and friends for suggestions. Be aware that using keys that are not yours to start the car can lead to the violation of your vehicle's warranty. A key that is not authorized could damage the lock of your vehicle. If you do not want to risk it is a good idea to contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith and wait for your replacement key from the dealer.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

One of the worst things you could do when you lose your car key is to panic. Take a deep breath, and then try to reason your situation. It is more likely you misplaced your keys than they were stolen. The next step is to retrace the steps you took and attempt to locate where your keys were. You might want to check places you don't normally check like the pockets of your pants, or a bags or coats you carry to run in. After you've inspected all of these areas, it's a good idea to call your insurance company.

Modern cars come with electronic keys that communicate through a chip with the car. This communication lets the car recognize the key fob, and then open the doors, and also start the engine. If you lose your keys it is important to report it immediately to ensure that anyone who isn't authorized can't enter your car keys lost replacement and use it.

Some insurance companies offer an extra benefit to their policy that will cover the cost of replacing a car key. It's worth checking with your insurance provider to see whether they have this type of insurance or if you can find an individual locksmith that will cover the cost.

If your car is equipped with the standard mechanical key, you'll be able to get it replaced at most hardware stores at a cost of a small amount. If, however, your car has an electronic key fob, which is connected to your car via the chip, you'll have go to the dealership for an upgrade. It's expensive, but it is much cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.

In addition to the cost of replacing your car key and filing an insurance claim for the loss of a key could cause your car insurance rates to increase. This is because your insurance provider will view you as an extremely risky driver for broken the loss of your car keys, and may raise your premiums to cover the cost of making an insurance claim. You can cut down on these additional cost by buying an electronic device to track your lost key or hiring a professional locksmith to create keys without copying the original one.

4. Call a tow truck

No one wants to lose their car keys. It is the worst thing that can occur. However, if it does happen it can be expensive to replace the key that was lost and get back on the road again. That's why it's best to be prepared for when it happens, so you can avoid having to call a tow truck, and keep your cash in your wallet.

When you've lost key to car no spare your car keys, the very first step is to retrace your steps. This can help you determine where they are, and aid in calming your panic. You may remember doing something at the supermarket or dropping your keys on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you identify your starting point.

If you cannot find your keys, search in places you might have placed them, like the pockets of the clothing you were wearing, or the bag that you used to transport them to home. If you are unable to find them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith or a tow truck.

A key tracker with bluetooth can be used on your phone. These are tiny devices that can be connected to your keyring and have an app on your phone to show you where your keys are, so you don't have to go through every drawer or pocket within your home.

The cost of replacing a car key that is lost may differ depending on the type of key you own. It is cheaper if you have an old-fashioned car key. An automotive locksmith will usually be capable of making a replacement on the spot, but without the original. But if you have a smart key that uses a proximity sensor to open the door or start the engine, you'll have to visit the dealer to purchase a new one.

It is essential to have a plan for when you lose your car keys so that you can save yourself the headache of having to pay for the tow truck or locksmith. It's easy to forget your car keys when you're exhausted after a long work day or when your thoughts are focused on other things. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your keys won't disappear forever, and you'll have an alternative plan in case they happen to disappear.