How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the hustle of taking children to school, running errands, and working, things have a tendency to be lost. Car keys are among of the most frequently lost items.
In the past, this wasn't an issue since you could easily replace it at your local hardware store or locksmith. However, this isn't the situation any more.
1. Call Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should call if you lose your key. Most car dealers keep track of each key made for their vehicles so it should be easy for them to locate your keys. The drawback is that going to the dealership can be costly so it's crucial to look around. You may be able to find a cheaper solution through an auto locksmith.
It is likely that you will need to give the dealership your vehicle identification number, or VIN, as well as evidence of ownership (such as a copy registration or title) to receive a replacement key. The dealership will then order a replacement key and pair it to your vehicle. The dealer must complete this lengthy procedure.
A lot of cars today are equipped with the special kind of key called a smart key. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor inside the vehicle, allowing for keyless entry and starting. Click Home are usually used with ignitions that have a push-to-start feature. You can purchase a brand new smart key from a dealership, but the cost is a bit expensive. Local auto locksmiths can create you a smart key at less than the cost.
You can also purchase a replacement for your key with a new one at your local hardware store. They can make a standard key that is compatible with the lock cylinder in your car. They will require the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you cannot locate the VIN on your vehicle it will be stamped on a metal plaque located on the dashboard or the driver's doorpost. Most locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to provide you with the replacement for your car key even if you don't have the original. In some cases the locksmith may need to take apart the ignition and door locks in order to complete the task. It is not a dangerous job, but it does require some technical knowledge.
2. Call a locksmith
The most common reason for requesting roadside assistance is when you've lost your car keys. Keep a spare car key in your bag and store it safely. However even the most vigilant people can lose their car keys. It is important to look for the car key and inform your insurance company immediately if you find it. This will decrease the chances of your claim being denied in the event that your key is stolen.
Calling a locksmith is the next best thing in the event that you don't have an extra key. Locksmiths usually can provide a key replacement at less than what a dealership would charge. They will usually visit your place and create the key right there, which is much more efficient than having to take your vehicle back to the dealership.
The type of car key you are using can impact the cost to replace it. The most affordable keys are the standard keys that can be purchased at most hardware stores. They cost about $10 per key. If your car is equipped with an ignition key that can be used as a remote to unlock and start the car, or a smart-key that can only by replaced at an auto dealer, the cost of these keys is typically more expensive than the standard one.
In the majority of instances, an automotive locksmith can replace the key fob or smart key if they can get the VIN number for your car, which is typically found on a metal plate on the driver's side doorpost, or stamped into the windshield of the vehicle. They will also require proof that you have ownership of the vehicle and have a copy of your registration or title.
Some locksmiths are not licensed or insured, so make sure to investigate them 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 an unauthorized key to start your vehicle could cause a breach of warranty. Unauthorized keys can cause damage to the lock of your vehicle. If you do not want to take this risk then contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith for your car and wait until the dealer sends out a replacement key.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Panic is among the most unpleasant reactions you could experience when you lose your keys. The first thing you should do is take an inhale and try to understand the situation. It is more likely you lost your keys than they were stolen. So, the next step is to retrace your steps and try to find out the location where they disappeared. It's a good idea to check places you don't normally check like the pockets of your pants or coat or a bag that you use for running. After you've looked in these places, you should call your insurance provider.
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate through an electronic chip with the car. This allows the vehicle to recognize the key fob, unlock the doors and then start the engine. It is essential to report the loss of your key immediately to prevent anyone who is not authorized from accessing your vehicle.
Certain insurance companies provide an extra benefit to their policy that covers the cost of replacing a car key. Contact your insurance provider to determine if this kind of coverage is available or if a locksmith can cover the cost.
If your car uses an ordinary mechanical key, you'll be able to have it replaced at most hardware stores for a small fee. If, however, your car is equipped with an electronic key fob, which is paired with your car through the chip, you'll need to visit your dealer for a replacement. It can be costly but it's cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.
In addition to the cost of replacing your car keys, filing an insurance claim for the loss of a key could cause your car insurance rates to rise. Your insurance company may increase your premiums because they will consider you a high-risk motorist because you lost your key. You can cut down on these additional costs by purchasing a tracking device that will track your lost keys or hiring a professional locksmith to design a key without cloning the previous key.
4. Call a tow truck
Nobody wants to lose their car keys. It's the worst thing that can occur. If it does happen it could cost a lot to replace keys and get back on the road. It's why it's important to be prepared if it happens, so you can avoid having to call an tow truck and keep your money in your wallet.
Find your way back if you've lost your keys. This will allow you to locate them and calm your panic. Make a list of what you did prior to losing your keys, like buying something at the supermarket or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you find your starting point.
If you cannot find your keys, search in places where you could have put them, such as the pockets of the clothing you were wearing, or in the bag you used to carry them to home. If you can't locate them, take a moment to relax and then call an locksmith or a tow truck.
A bluetooth key tracker can also be utilized on your phone. These are small devices that can attach to a keyring, and an app on your smartphone will provide you with the whereabouts of your keys.
The cost of replacing a car key that is lost may vary depending on what kind of key you have. It is cheaper in the case of an old-fashioned car key. An automotive locksmith will typically be able to make a replacement on the spot, without the original. If you have a smart-key that uses a proximity detector to open doors or turn on your car's engine then you'll need go to the dealer to purchase a new one.
You must have a plan for when you lose your keys. This will help you avoid the expense of an tow-truck or locksmith. It's easy to forget your car keys when you're exhausted after a long day, or when your thoughts are focused on other things. If you follow these suggestions to ensure your keys don't disappear for ever and have a backup plan in case the event that they do.