How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the rush of getting kids to school, running errands and working things tend to get lost. One of the most frequently lost items that go missing is our keys to our cars.
In the past, this wasn't an issue because you could easily replace it at your local hardware store or locksmith. Today, it's not as easy.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
If you lose your car key The first person you should call is your dealer. The majority of car dealers keep records of each key they make for their vehicles, which means they will be able to locate yours. It can be costly to visit a dealership, so you should shop around. You may be able to get a cheaper option by using an auto locksmith.
In the majority of cases, you will need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, such as an original registration or title, in order to obtain a replacement key from the dealership. The dealership will then order an alternative key and connect it to your vehicle. The dealer will need to complete this lengthy process.
Many vehicles today come with the special kind of key known as a smart keys. They are designed to activate a proximity sensor inside the vehicle, which allows for keyless entry and starting. They are usually used with ignitions that require a push-to start. You can buy a new smart key from the dealership, but the cost is very expensive. Local auto locksmiths can create you a smart key for a fraction of the cost.
You can also get a replacement for the key you have always had at your local hardware store. They can make you the standard lock cylinder keys. They'll need the year of manufacture of your vehicle, as well as the VIN. If you're unable to find the VIN it's typically printed on a metal plate located on the driver's side doorpost or the dashboard. Even if you do not have the original, most locksmiths in the automotive industry can provide you with an alternative car key. In some instances the locksmith might need to remove the door lock and ignition in order to do this. It is not a dangerous job, but it requires some technical knowledge.
2. Call a locksmith
The most frequent reason for requesting roadside assistance is because you've lost your car keys. Keep an extra car key in your bag and store it in a safe place. Even the most careful of people may lose their keys. It is important to look for the car key and inform your insurance provider immediately if you spot it. This will lower the likelihood of your claim being denied later should your key be found stolen.
If you don't have a spare key, the next best option is to call an locksmith. A locksmith can generally provide a replacement key for less than what the dealership will cost. They are also able to visit your location and make the key right there which is more convenient than having to bring your vehicle back to the dealership.
The cost of replacing your car keys can vary depending on the type you own. The most affordable keys are the standard keys that can be purchased at most hardware stores. They are priced at around $10 per key. If your car is equipped with keys that can be used as a remote to unlock and start the vehicle or a smart-key that is only able to be replaced at an auto dealer, the cost of these keys is typically higher than the traditional one.
In the majority of cases, an automotive locksmith can replace the key fob or smart key as long as they can get the VIN number for your vehicle, which is typically found on a metal plaque on the driver's side of the doorpost or in the windshield of the vehicle. They will also need proof that you have ownership of the vehicle and have a copy of your registration or title.
Some locksmiths aren't licensed or insured, so make sure to do your research prior to hiring them. You can find qualified auto-locksmiths through online search engines or asking family members and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using a fake key to start your vehicle could cause a breach of warranty. A key that is not authorized could cause damage to the lock on your vehicle. If you don't want to risk this, it's 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 most dangerous things you can do when you lose your car keys is to panic. The first thing to do is take your breath and try to understand the situation. It is more likely that you misplaced your keys than they were stolen. So, the next step is to retrace your steps and try to determine the place they disappeared. It could be helpful to look in places you would not normally check like pockets in your pants or coat or in a bag you carry when running. After you've checked these places, you should call your insurance company.
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate through a chip with the car. This communication allows the vehicle recognize the key fob and open the doors, and start the engine. It's important that you report the loss of your keys immediately to stop unauthorized persons from utilizing your vehicle.
Certain insurance companies provide an extra benefit to their policy that will cover the cost of a replacement key for your car. It is worth contacting your insurance provider to see whether they provide this kind of insurance or if you can locate an individual locksmith who will cover the cost.
You can usually get a replacement for a mechanical key in most hardware stores at a reasonable price. If your car uses an electronic key that connects to your vehicle via the chip, then you'll have to visit the dealership to get an alternative. It's expensive however it's much cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.
In addition to the cost of replacing your car key and submitting an insurance claim for the loss of a key can cause your insurance rates to rise. This is because your insurance company will view you as high-risk driver for loosing your car keys and could increase your premiums to cover the cost of settling the claim. You can reduce these expenses by purchasing an electronic device to track your lost key or hiring a professional locksmith to design keys without copying the old key.
4. Call a tow truck
Everyone would hate to lose their car keys. It's the worst thing that can happen. If it does happen it can be expensive to replace the lost key and get back on the road again. It's essential to be prepared so that you don't have to call a tow-truck and can keep your money.
If you've lost your car keys, the very first step is to retrace your steps. This will help you 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 supermarket or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you pinpoint your place of origin.
If you are 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 are unable to locate them, take a few minutes to relax before calling a locksmith or a tow truck.
A bluetooth key tracker can also be utilized on your phone. These are small devices that can be connected to your keyring and use an app on your phone to show you where your keys are, so you don't have to search every drawer or pocket in your home.
lost keys to car no spare of replacing a lost car keys can vary dependent on the type of key that you have. You can save money if you have traditional car keys. A locksmith for automotive will usually be in a position to create a new key on the spot, without the original. If you have a smart-key that uses proximity sensors to open doors or turn on your car's engine then you'll need to visit a dealership to purchase a new one.
You must have a plan for when you lose your keys. This will save you the hassle of having to pay for an tow-truck or locksmith. When you're stressed or distracted, it's easy to lose your car keys. However, by following these steps to ensure that your keys won't vanish forever, and you have a backup plan for when they do.