How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Things tend to get lost in the rush of bringing kids to and from school, running errands and working. One of the most common items that go missing is the car keys.
In the past, this wasn't an issue since you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. Today, it's not as easy.
1. Call Your Car Dealership
If you have lost your car keys, the first place you should call is your car dealer. The majority of car dealers keep a record of every key designed for their vehicles, making it easy for them to locate your key. The drawback is that visiting the dealership can be costly and it's essential to shop around. You may be able get a lower price through a locksmith for cars.
It is likely that you will need to provide the dealership with your vehicle identification number, or VIN, as well as evidence of ownership (such as a copy of registration or title) to obtain an alternative key. The dealership will request a replacement key and pair it to your vehicle. The dealer must complete this lengthy procedure.
Smart keys are a kind of key used in a variety of cars in the present. They are designed to work with a proximity sensor to be activated within the car, which allows keyless entry and start. These keys are often paired with ignitions that require a push-to-start. You can purchase a new smart key from a dealership, but the price is a bit expensive. A local auto locksmith can make the smart key for about half the cost of what you'd pay at the dealership.
You can also purchase a replacement for your key with a new one at the local hardware store. They can make a standard key that fits the lock cylinder in your car. They will require the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you're unable to find the VIN, it is usually printed on a metal plate located on the driver's side doorpost or the dashboard. Even if you do not have the original key, most locksmiths for automotive will be able to provide you with an alternative car key. In some instances they may have to disassemble the door and ignition to do so. This is not a risky job for a professional, but it does require some mechanical knowledge and skill.
2. Contact a Locksmith
Losing your car keys is among of the most common reasons for roadside assistance and callouts. Keep an extra car key with you and store it safely. Even the most cautious of people may lose their keys. It's important to check thoroughly for the key and inform your insurance company as soon as possible to reduce the chances of getting denied a claim if the key turns up stolen later.
Contacting a locksmith is the best option when you don't have an extra. Locksmiths usually can provide a key replacement at less than what a dealership would cost. They may also come to your location to create the key on the spot, which is more convenient than having your car brought back to the dealer.
The cost of replacing your car key can vary depending on the model you own. Keys that are traditional that can be exchanged at most hardware stores for $10 each and are the cheapest. If your car is equipped with the key fob, which acts like a remote and can be used to unlock and start the engine or a smart key, that can only be replaced by dealers, these keys will usually cost more than the standard key.
A locksmith can replace a smart key or key fob in most cases so long as they have the VIN number for your vehicle. It is usually located on the metal plaque on the driver's doorpost, or on the windshield. They will also need evidence that you own the car and have a copy of your registration or title.
You should always do your research before hiring a locksmith. You can find qualified auto locksmiths by looking online or asking family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using a fake key to start your car could lead to a breach of warranty. Using lost keys to car may also damage the lock of your car. If you do not want to risk it, it's 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
One of the most dangerous things you can do when you lose your car key is to panic. The first thing you should do is take your breath and try to understand the situation. It is more likely you lost your keys rather than they were stolen. The next step is to go back your steps and try to figure out the place they went missing. It could be helpful to check places you wouldn't usually check, such as pockets on your pants or coat, or in the bag you use for running. After you've inspected all of these areas, it's a good idea contact your insurance company.
Most modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs which communicate with your vehicle via chip. This allows the car to recognize the key fob and unlock the doors, as well as start the engine. It is crucial to inform the authorities of the loss of your key immediately to prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing your vehicle.
Some car insurance providers offer an insurance add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. It's worth checking with your insurance provider to determine whether they have this type of protection or if you can find an individual locksmith who will cover the cost.
It is possible to replace a mechanical key in most hardware stores for a fair cost. However, if your car is equipped with an electronic key fob that is connected to your car via the chip, you'll have go to the dealership to get a replacement. It can be costly 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 consider you a high-risk driver for losing your car keys, and may raise your premiums in order to offset the cost of settling the claim. Fortunately, you can often avoid the extra expenses by purchasing a device to locate your car key that has been lost or having a locksmith create a new key without cloning the original.
4. Call a tow truck
It's one of the most difficult things to lose your car keys and nobody wants to see it happen. If it does happen it could be costly to replace keys and get back on the road. It is important to be prepared so that you don't have call a tow truck and keep your money.
If you've lost your car keys, the first step is to retrace your steps. This can aid in determining where they are and can help you calm your anxiety. Try to recall what you did prior to losing your keys, such as buying something at the supermarket 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, check places where you may have placed them, such as the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or in the bag you used to transport them home. If you're still unable to locate them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.
Another alternative is to use a bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are tiny devices you can attach to your keyring and have an app for your phone that will let you know where your keys are so you don't need to look through every drawer or pocket within your home.
The cost of replacing a lost car key can differ depending on the type of key you have. It is cheaper if you have a traditional car key. A locksmith for automotive is usually able to make a replacement on the spot, but without the original. If you have an electronic key that utilizes the proximity sensor to open the door or start the engine, you'll have go to 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 avoid the hassle of having to pay for an tow truck or locksmith. When you're tired or distracted, it's easy to lose your keys to your car. If you follow these steps, you can ensure that your keys don't disappear forever. You should also have backup plans in the event that they do.