How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Things can get lost in the hustle of getting children to and from school, completing errands and working. One of the most frequently lost items that disappears is our car keys.
In the past you could easily change this at your local locksmith or hardware store. However, this isn't the situation any more.
1. Call Your Car Dealership
If you lose your car keys, the first place you should call is your car dealer. Most dealers keep a record of each key designed for their vehicles, therefore it should be simple for them to locate your key. It can be costly to go to a dealership, so you should research. You may be able find a cheaper option by using an auto locksmith.
In most instances, you'll have to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and evidence of ownership, such as an original title or registration, to get an alternative key from the dealership. The dealership will then request an additional key and connect it with your vehicle. The dealer will need to complete this lengthy process.
replacing lost keys have a special type of key known as a smart keys. They are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, allowing for keyless entry and start. These keys are typically used with ignitions that require a push to start. The dealer can sell you a smart key, but it is expensive. Local auto locksmiths can make you a smart lock at less than the cost.
You can also purchase a replacement for your classic key at the local hardware store. They can make you a standard lock cylinder key. They will need to know the year of manufacture of your vehicle and also the VIN. If you're unable to find the VIN, it is usually printed on a metal plate that is located on the driver's side doorpost or dashboard. Even if you don't have the original, most automotive locksmiths can provide you with an alternate car key. However, in certain instances they might need to take apart the door lock and ignition to do so. It's not a risky task, but it requires some technical knowledge.
2. Contact a locksmith
The misplacing of your car keys is one of the most common reasons for roadside assistance and callouts. It is essential to keep a spare key on you and ensure it's somewhere safe. Even the most cautious of people could lose their keys. It is important to thoroughly search for the key and to notify your insurance company as quickly as possible in order to decrease the chance of being denied a claim in the event that it happens to be stolen later.
A locksmith's call is the next best option if you don't own a spare. Locksmiths are usually able to offer a replacement key for less than what the dealership will charge. They are also able to visit your place and create the key on the spot 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 model you own. The most affordable keys are the traditional keys that are available at most hardware stores. They are priced at around $10 per key. If your vehicle is equipped with a key fob that can be used as a remote for unlocking and start the vehicle or a smart-key, which can only by replaced at a dealership, the price of these keys will be higher than the traditional one.
In most cases, an automotive locksmith will be able to replace keys fobs or a smart key if they can get the VIN number for your vehicle it is usually located on a metal plate on the driver's side doorpost, or etched into the windshield of the vehicle. They will need evidence of ownership, like your registration or title.
You should always conduct your research prior to hiring a locksmith. You can find reputable auto locksmiths by searching online or asking your family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using keys that are not yours to start the car can cause a violation of your vehicle's warranty. The use of keys that are not authorized could cause damage to your car's lock. If you do not want to risk this 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 most unpleasant reactions you could have when you lose your key. The first thing to do is to take a deep breath and try to understand the situation. Most likely, you lost your keys due to you misplaced them rather than having them stolen. So, the next step is to trace your steps and try to find out the place they were lost. You might want to check places you don't normally check like the pockets of your pants, bag or coat you carry for running. After you've looked in these places it is time to call your insurance provider.
Modern cars are fitted with electronic keys that communicate with your car via chips. This allows the car to recognize and open the doors and start the engine. It's important that you immediately report the loss of your keys immediately to prevent anyone who is not authorized from accessing your vehicle.
Some insurance companies offer an additional benefit to their policies that will cover the cost of replacing a car key. It's worth talking to your insurance provider to see whether they provide this kind of coverage or if you can locate an individual locksmith that will cover the cost.
If your car has a standard mechanical key, you can have it replaced at any hardware store for a nominal cost. However, if your car has an electronic key fob that's connected to your car via the chip, you'll need to visit your dealer for the replacement. It can be costly but it's also more cost-effective than hiring locksmith.
In addition to the cost of replacing your car keys, filing an insurance claim for the loss of a key can cause your car insurance rates to rise. Your insurance company may increase your premiums because they'll consider you to be a high-risk motorist for losing your key. You can reduce these cost by buying a tracking device that will track your lost key or hiring a professional locksmith to design an original key without copying the old one.
4. Call a Tow Truck
No one wants to lose their car keys. It is the worst scenario that could happen. If it happens it could be costly to replace the key and get back on the road. That's why it's best to be prepared in case it happens, so that you don't have to call an tow truck and keep your money in your wallet.
If you've lost your car keys, the first thing to do is retrace your steps. This can aid in determining where they are, and aid in calming your panic. Try to remember what you did prior to losing your keys, for example, buying something at the grocery store or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you pinpoint your starting point.
If you can't locate your keys, check places where you may have put them, such as the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or the bag that you used to carry them to home. If you still can't find them, give yourself some time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.
Another alternative is to utilize an bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are small devices that can attach to a keyring and an app for your smartphone will provide you with the location of your keys.
The cost to replace a lost car key can differ depending on the type of key you have. If you own a traditional key an automotive locksmith will generally make a new key in a matter of minutes without the original one, which will save you some money. If you have an electronic key that relies on the proximity sensor to open the door or turn on the engine, you'll need to visit the dealer to get a replacement.
It is essential to have a plan in place to deal with the loss of your car keys, so that you can save yourself the headache of having to pay for an tow truck or locksmith. When you're stressed or distracted, it's not difficult to lose your keys to your car. If you follow these suggestions to ensure your keys don't disappear for ever and have a backup plan when they do.