How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the shuffle of taking kids to school, running errands and working it is common for things to get lost. One of the most frequent items that disappears is the car keys.
In the past, you could easily replace this at the local locksmith or hardware store. Nowadays, that is not as simple.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person to contact should you lose your keys. Most dealers keep track of every key made for their vehicles so it should be easy for them to find your keys. The downside is that visiting the dealership can be expensive, so it's important to look around. You might be able to find a cheaper option by using an auto locksmith.
It is likely that you will need to provide the dealership with your vehicle identification number or VIN, and proof of ownership (such as a copy registration or title) to receive the replacement key. The dealership will order an alternative key and connect it to your vehicle. The dealer must complete this lengthy process.
Smart keys are a form of key that is used in a lot of automobiles in the present. These keys are designed to use proximity sensors to be activated inside the car, which allows keyless entry and start. They are usually used with ignitions that require a push-to-start. You can buy a new smart key from the dealership, but the price is very high. Local auto locksmiths can make you a smart lock at a fraction of the cost.
You can also replace your key with a new one at your local hardware store. They can make you a standard lock cylinder key. They will require the VIN and the model year. If you are unable to locate the VIN on your car it will be engraved on a metal plaque that is placed on the dashboard or driver's doorpost. Most automotive locksmiths will be able to offer an alternative car key even if you don't have the original. In some instances they may have to disassemble the ignition and door locks to accomplish this. This is not a hazardous task, but it requires some technical knowledge.
2. Contact a locksmith
Losing your car keys is one of the most common reasons for roadside assistance or callouts. Keep a spare car key in your bag and store it in a safe place. However, even the most careful people may lose their car keys. It is important to look for the car key and notify your insurance company immediately if you find it. This will reduce the likelihood of your claim being denied later if your key is found stolen.
Contacting a locksmith is the best option if you don't own an extra. A locksmith can generally provide a replacement key for less than the dealership will cost. They can also usually visit your location and create the key on the spot, which is much more convenient than having to bring your vehicle back to the dealership.
The type of car key that you are using can impact the cost to replace it. The most affordable keys are the traditional keys that can be bought at many hardware stores. They are about $10 per key. If your car is equipped with an ignition key fob that acts as a remote that allows you to open and start the engine or a smart key, which can only be replaced by a dealership and will typically cost more than the traditional key.
A locksmith can replace the smart key or key fob in most cases so long as they have the VIN number of your vehicle. This is usually found on the metal plaque on the driver's doorpost or stamped on the windshield. 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 be sure to research them before hiring them. You can locate reputable auto locksmiths on the internet or asking friends and family for suggestions. Be aware that using unauthorized keys to start the car can result in a breach of the warranty on your vehicle. Using unauthorized keys may also 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
Panic is one of the worst reactions you can have when you lose your key. The first thing to do is to take a deep breath and try to understand the situation. It is more likely that you misplaced your keys than they were stolen. The next step is retrace the steps you took and try to locate the location where your keys went missing. You might want to check places that you wouldn't normally look at like the pockets of your pants or coat or a bag that you use for running. After you've looked in these places you must contact your insurance provider.
Most modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate with your vehicle via chips. This process of communication allows the car to recognize and open the doors and then start the engine. It's important that you report the loss of your key immediately to prevent anyone who is not authorized from using your vehicle.
Certain insurance companies provide an add-on to their policy that covers the cost of replacing a key for your car. It's worth talking to your insurance provider to determine whether they provide this kind of coverage or if they can locate an individual locksmith that will cover the cost.
If your car uses a standard mechanical key, you can get it replaced at most hardware stores for a small fee. If your car is equipped with an electronic key that is connected to your vehicle via the chip, then you'll have to visit your dealer to purchase an replacement. It's not cheap however it's much cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.
In addition to the expense of replacing your car key and filing an insurance claim to replace a lost key could cause your car insurance rates to increase. Your insurance company could increase your premiums as they'll view you as a high-risk motorist in the event of losing your key. You can reduce these expenses by purchasing a tracking device that will track your lost keys or having a professional locksmith create an original key without copying the previous one.
4. Contact towing truck
It's one of the most difficult things to lose your car keys, and no one wants to experience this. If it does happen it could be costly to replace the lost key and get back on the road. This is why it's important to be prepared for when it happens, so you can avoid having to call a tow truck and keep your cash in your wallet.
If you've lost your car keys, the very first thing to do is trace your steps. This will help you locate them and ease your anxiety. Make a list of what you did prior to losing your keys, for example, picking up something from the grocery store or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you to identify your starting point.
If you can't locate your keys, look in places you might have put them, such as the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or in the bag that you carried them in to take them home. If you're still not able to locate them, give yourself some time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.
Another alternative is to use the bluetooth key tracker app on your phone. These are tiny devices can be attached to your keyring, and also have an app on your phone that will let you know where your keys are, so you don't need to look through every pocket or drawer in your home.
The cost of replacing a lost car keys can vary depending on the type of key that you have. You could save money in the case of a traditional car key. An automotive locksmith will typically be able to make a replacement on the spot, without the original. If you are using a smart-key that utilizes a proximity detector to open the doors or start your car's engine then you'll need to visit the dealership to purchase a new one.
It's important to have a plan in case you lose your car keys so that you can avoid the hassle of having to pay for an tow truck or locksmith. When you're tired or distracted, it's not difficult to lose your car keys. By following these tips you can make sure that your keys don't disappear forever. lost car key have no spare should also have backup plans in case they happen to disappear.