How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Things are often lost in the chaos of getting kids to and from school, completing errands and working. One of the most frequent items that go missing is our keys to our car.
In the past you could easily replace this at the local locksmith or hardware store. However, nowadays, it isn't as simple.
1. Call Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should contact if you lose your key. The majority of car dealers keep track of every key made for their vehicles so it should be easy for them to track down your key. It is expensive to go to a dealership and you should research. You may be able to get a cheaper option by using an auto locksmith.
In the majority of instances, you'll have to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and evidence of ownership, like a copy of the title or registration, to get a replacement key from the dealership. The dealership will then request an additional key and connect it with your vehicle. The dealer must complete this lengthy procedure.
A lot of cars today have keys that are specialized known as a smart keys. They are designed to work with proximity sensors to be activated inside the car, allowing keyless entry and starting. They are usually used with ignitions that are push-to-start. Dealers will offer you a smart key but it's costly. Local auto locksmiths can create you a smart key for a fraction of the cost.
You can also get a replacement for your classic key at the local hardware store. They will be able to create a standard key that fits the lock cylinder in your car. They will require the VIN and the model year. If you can't locate the VIN it's usually stamped on a metal plaque that is located on the driver's side doorpost or the dashboard. Most automotive locksmiths can provide you with the replacement for your car key even if they don't have the original. In certain instances the locksmith may need to disassemble the door lock and ignition in order to do this. It is not a dangerous job, but it requires some knowledge of mechanics.
2. Call for a locksmith
The most common reason for roadside assistance is because you've lost your car keys. It's important to keep a spare key handy with you and ensure it's somewhere safe. However, even the most careful people may lose their car keys. It is essential to search thoroughly for the keys and notify your insurance company as soon as you can to minimize your chances of being denied a claim in the event that it is found later stolen.
Contacting a locksmith is the next best option if you don't own an extra. Locksmiths can usually provide a key replacement at less than what a dealership would charge. They can also visit your location to create the key right there which is much more convenient than having your car brought back to the dealer.
The kind of car key you have can affect the cost of replacing it. The most affordable keys are the traditional keys that can be purchased at many hardware stores. They cost about $10 per key. If your car has the key fob, which acts like a remote and allows you to open and start the engine or a smart key, which can only be changed by an auto dealer, these keys will usually cost more than the standard key.
A locksmith can replace the smart key or key fob in the majority of cases as long they have the VIN number of your vehicle. This is usually found on the metal plate on the driver's doorpost or stamped on the windshield. They will also need proof that you have ownership of the vehicle and have the registration or title.
You should always do your research before hiring a locksmith. You can find reputable auto locksmiths by searching online or asking family and friends for suggestions. Be aware that using an unauthorized key to start your vehicle could cause an infringement of warranty. The use of a key that is not authentic could damage the lock of your vehicle. If you aren't willing to take this risk 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 keys is to panic. Take a deep breath, and then try to think about your situation. It is more likely you lost your keys rather than they were stolen. The next step is to trace your steps and attempt to find out the place they disappeared. It may help to look around in places that you wouldn't usually check like pockets in your pants or coat, or in the bag you use when running. Once you've checked all these places, it's a good idea call your insurance company.
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys which communicate with your vehicle via chips. This allows the vehicle to recognize the key fob, unlock the doors, and also start the engine. If you lose your keys It is crucial to report this immediately to ensure that anyone who isn't authorized aren't able to enter your vehicle and use it.
replace lost car key offer an insurance add-on that covers the cost of replacing a lost car key. Check with your insurance company to find out if this type of coverage is available or if an individual locksmith can cover the cost.
If your car has 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, Recommended Browsing is equipped with an electronic key fob that is paired with your car through the chip, you'll need to go to your dealership for an upgrade. This can be expensive however it's cheaper than hiring a locksmith.
In the event of filing an insurance claim because of a car key that was stolen can increase your insurance rates. This is because your insurance provider will consider you high-risk driver for loosing your car keys, and may raise your premiums to offset the cost of settling the claim. Fortunately, you can reduce the costs by purchasing a tracking device to locate your car key that has been lost or having a locksmith make the new key without cloning the original.
4. Call a tow truck
Nobody wants to lose their car keys. It's the worst scenario that could happen. If it does happen, it can be costly to replace the lost key and get back on the road again. It's important to be prepared so that you don't have to call a tow-truck and can keep your money.
Find your way back in case you've lost your keys. This can help you determine where they are and can help calm your panic. Make a list of what you did prior to losing your keys, for example, picking up something from the supermarket or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you pinpoint the place to start.
If you are unable to locate your keys, look in places where you may have placed them, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or in the bag you used to transport them home. If you are unable to locate them, take a few minutes to relax and then call a locksmith or tow truck.
A key tracker bluetooth can also be used with your phone. These are tiny devices can be attached to your keyring, and also have an app on your phone that can show you where your keys are so you don't have to look through every pocket or drawer in your house.
The cost of replacing a lost car key may vary according to the type of key that you have. You can save money in the case of traditional car keys. An automotive locksmith will usually be able to make a replacement on the spot, but without the original. If you are using a smart-key that utilizes proximity sensors to open doors or start the engine of your vehicle, you will need to visit the dealership to obtain a replacement.
It's important to have a plan to deal with the loss of your car keys, so you can avoid the hassle of having to pay for an tow truck or locksmith. It's easy to forget your car keys when you're tired after a long day, or when your attention is focused distracted by other things. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your keys don't disappear forever. You should also have an alternative plan in case they happen to disappear.