How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the shuffle of sending kids to school, running errands, and working it is common for things to be lost. Our car keys are one of the most frequently lost items.
In the past, this wasn't an issue since you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. Today, it's not as easy.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
If you've lost your car keys The first place you should contact is your dealer. Most dealers keep a log of every key that is made for their vehicles, making it easy for them to locate your keys. It's expensive to go to a dealership and you should research. You may be able to get a lower price through an automotive locksmith.
You'll likely have to give the dealership your vehicle identification number, or VIN, along with evidence of ownership (such as a copy of your registration or title) to obtain a replacement key. The dealership will then purchase a new key and pair it with your vehicle. The dealer must complete this lengthy process.
Many vehicles today have a special type of key known as a smart key. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, which allows for keyless entry and start. They are usually used with ignitions that require a push-to-start. You can purchase a brand new smart key from a dealership, but the price is a bit expensive. A local auto locksmith can make the smart key at a fraction of what you'd buy from the dealership.
You can also get a traditional key replacement at your local hardware store. They can make you an ordinary key that will fit the lock cylinder in your car. lost key replacement car will require the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you are unable to locate the VIN it's typically stamped on a metal plaque that is located on the driver's side doorpost or dashboard. The majority of locksmiths for automotive are able to provide you with the replacement for your car key, even if you don't have the original. In certain instances, the locksmith may have to disassemble the ignition and door locks to accomplish this. This is not a dangerous job for a professional, but it requires some mechanical skills and knowledge.
2. Contact a locksmith
The most common reason for seeking roadside assistance is that you have lost your car keys. Keep a spare car key in your bag and store it safely. However even the most vigilant people may lose their car keys. You should check for the car key and notify your insurance company immediately if you discover it. This will decrease the chance of your claim being denied if your key is found stolen.
If you don't have an extra key, the best option is to contact the locksmith. Locksmiths usually can provide a key replacement for less than what a dealership would cost. They can also come to your home to make keys right there which is easier than having your car brought back to the dealer.
The kind of car key you have could affect the cost of replacing it. Keys that are traditional are able to be replaced at most hardware stores for about $10 each and are the cheapest. If your car has an ignition key fob that functions as a remote and can be used to unlock and start the engine or a smart key, which can only be replaced by a dealership the keys will typically cost more than a traditional key.
A locksmith can replace keys that are smart or fob in the majority of cases as long they have the VIN number of your vehicle. This is usually found on the metal plate that is on the driver's doorpost, or on the windshield. They will also require proof that you own the car, such as a copy of your registration or title.
Some locksmiths aren't 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 recommendations. Be aware that using an unlicensed key to start your vehicle could cause a breach of warranty. The use of keys that are not authorized could cause damage to your car's lock. If you don't want to risk it is a good idea to contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith and wait for a 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. Relax, and then try to rationalize your situation. It is likely that you lost your keys because you misplaced them, instead of them being stolen. The next step is to go back through the steps you took and try to find out the place where your keys were. It might help to check places you don't normally look like the pockets of your pants or coat or in the bag you carry for running. After you've inspected these areas you must contact your insurance provider.
lost key replacement car come with electronic keys that communicate through a chip with the car. This communication process allows the vehicle to recognize the key fob, unlock the doors, and also start the engine. If you lose your key, it's important to notify the police immediately to ensure that anyone who isn't authorized don't get into your car and use it.
Some insurance companies offer an add-on to their policy that covers the cost of a replacement key for your car. Check with your insurance company to determine if this kind of insurance is offered or if a locksmith can pay for the costs.
If your car uses an ordinary mechanical key, you can typically get it replaced at a variety of hardware stores for a nominal cost. If, however, your car is equipped with an electronic key fob that's linked to your vehicle via the chip, you'll have to go to your dealership to get a replacement. It can be costly but it's cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.
In the event of filing an insurance claim due to a stolen car key can increase your insurance costs. The insurance company could raise your premiums due to the fact that they'll view you as a high-risk driver for losing your key. You can cut down on these additional expenses by purchasing a device that tracks your lost key to track your lost key or hiring a professional locksmith to design an original key without copying the original key.
4. Call for a Tow Truck
It's one of the most difficult things to lose your car keys, and nobody would want to experience this. If it happens it could be costly to replace keys and get back on the road. It's why it's important to be prepared if it does, so you can avoid having to call a tow truck, and keep your money in your wallet.
When you've lost your car keys, the very first thing to do is trace your steps. This will allow you to locate the keys and calm your panic. Make a list of what you did right before losing your keys, such as picking up something from the grocery store or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you find your starting point.
If you're unable to locate your keys, look around 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 moment to relax, and then call an locksmith or a tow truck.
Another option is to make use of the bluetooth key tracker app on your phone. These are small devices that can connect to a keyring and an app on your phone will show you the whereabouts of your keys.
The cost to replace a car key that is lost may differ based on the type of key you have. If you have a conventional key that is used for automotive, a locksmith can typically make a new one in a matter of minutes without the original, which can save you money. However, if you own an electronic key that relies on proximity sensors to open the door or turn on the engine, you'll need to go to the dealership to get a replacement.
You should have a plan in place for the event that you lose your keys. This will spare you the hassle of having to pay for a tow-truck or locksmith. It's easy for you to forget your car keys when you're tired after a long day, or when your mind is on other things. If you follow these suggestions to ensure that your keys don't vanish forever, and you have a backup plan the event that they do.