How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Things can get lost key replacement in the rush of getting children to and from school, running errands, and working. Our car keys are one of the most commonly lost items.

In the past, this wasn't a big deal because you could easily replace it at your local hardware store or locksmith. This isn't the situation any more.

1. Call Your Car Dealership

If you lose your car keys The first person you should contact is your car dealer. Most dealers keep a record of every key designed for their vehicles, making it easy for them to locate your keys. The disadvantage is that going to the dealership can be costly, so it's important to look around. You may be able to locate a lower cost option through an automotive locksmith.

In the majority of instances, you'll have to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, like an original registration or title, in order to obtain a replacement key from the dealership. The dealership will then order the replacement key and attach it with your vehicle. The dealer will have to complete this lengthy procedure.

Smart keys are a form of key used in a variety of cars in the present. They are designed to work with proximity sensors to be activated inside the car, which allows keyless entry and start. These keys are typically used with ignitions that require a push-to-start. You can purchase a new smart key from the dealership, but the cost is a bit high. A local auto locksmith can make a smart key for you for about half the cost of what you'd pay at the dealership.

You can also purchase a replacement for the key you have always had at your local hardware store. They can create the standard lock cylinder keys. They will require the VIN and the model year. If you are unable to locate the VIN it's usually stamped on a metal plate found on the driver's doorpost or dashboard. The majority of locksmiths for automotive will be able to provide you with an alternative car key, even if you don't have the original. However, in some cases, they may need to take apart the door lock and ignition in order to do this. It's not a risky job, but it requires some knowledge of mechanics.

2. Call a Locksmith

The most frequent reason for requesting roadside assistance is that you have lost your car keys. Keep a spare car key in your bag and store it in a safe place. However even the most vigilant people may lose their car keys. It is essential to search thoroughly for the key and to notify your insurance company as soon as possible to reduce the chances of getting denied a claim if it turns up stolen later.

Calling a locksmith is the next best thing when you don't have a spare. Locksmiths are usually able to offer a replacement key for less than what the dealership would cost. They can also visit your location to create the key right there which is easier than having your car brought back to the dealer.

The type of car key that you are using can impact the cost of replacing it. The most affordable keys are the standard keys that can be bought at many hardware stores. They cost about $10 per key. If your car has a key fob, which acts like a remote and can be used to unlock and start the engine, or a smart key, which can only be replaced by dealers and will typically cost more than the standard key.

In the majority of instances, an auto locksmith will be able to replace a key fob or smart key as long as they can get the VIN number of your car, which is typically found on a metal plate on your driver's side doorpost or in the windshield of the vehicle. They will need proof of ownership, such as your registration or title.

Some locksmiths are not licensed or insured, so be sure to investigate them prior to hiring. You can find reputable auto locksmiths by looking online or asking friends and family for recommendations. Be aware that using an unlicensed key to start your car could lead to an infringement of warranty. The use of keys that are not authorized could cause damage to the lock of your vehicle. If you do not want to take this risk you should consider to call 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. Take a deep breath and then try to reason your situation. Chances are that you lost your keys because you misplaced them rather than having them stolen. The next step is to trace your steps and attempt to find out where they went missing. You might want to check places that you wouldn't normally look at, like the pockets of your pants, coat or a bag that you use to run in. After you've inspected these areas, you should call your insurance company.

Modern cars come with electronic keys that communicate with an electronic chip with the car. This allows the car to recognize the key fob and unlock the doors, and also start the engine. If you lose your keys it is important to report it immediately to ensure that people who are not authorized can't enter your car and use it.

Some car insurance providers offer an add-on to their policies that will cover the cost of replacing a lost car key. It's worth talking to your insurance provider to determine whether they provide this kind of insurance or if you can find an individual locksmith that can pay for the cost.

If your car is equipped with the standard mechanical key, you'll be able to have it replaced at any hardware store for a nominal cost. If, however, your car is equipped with an electronic key fob that's connected to your car via the chip, you'll need go to the dealership for the replacement. It can be costly however it's more cost-effective than hiring locksmith.

In addition to the cost of replacing your car key, filing an insurance claim for a stolen key can cause your insurance rates to increase. This is because your insurance provider will view you as high-risk driver for loosing your car keys and could increase your premiums to cover the cost of settling an insurance claim. Fortunately, you can save yourself the cost of purchasing a tracking device to locate your car key that has been lost or letting a locksmith design the new key without cloning the original.

4. Call a tow truck

It's the most frustrating thing to lose your car keys, and no one wants it to happen. But if it does, it can be costly to replace the key that was lost and get you back on the road again. That's why it's best to be prepared in case it happens, so you won't need to call a tow truck, and keep your cash in your wallet.

If you've lost your car keys, the first step is to retrace your steps. This will help you determine where they are and help you calm your anxiety. Try to remember what you did right before losing your keys, for example, buying something at the supermarket or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you to find your starting point.

If you can't locate your keys, search in places where you could have put them, like the pockets of the clothing you were wearing, or in the bag you used to carry them to home. If you're still not able to locate the keys, give yourself time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.

Another alternative is to utilize the bluetooth key tracker app on your phone. These are tiny devices that can be connected to your keyring and use an app installed on your phone that will let you know where your keys are so you don't have to search every drawer or pocket in your home.

The cost of replacing a car key that is lost may differ depending on the type of key you own. If you own a traditional key an automotive locksmith will typically make a new one in a matter of minutes without the original one, which can save you money. But if you have an electronic key that utilizes the proximity sensor to open the door or turn on the engine, you'll have go to the dealer to purchase a new one.

It's important to have a plan in place for when you lose your car keys, so you can save yourself the headache of having to pay for an tow truck or locksmith. It's easy to forget your car keys when you're exhausted after a long day or when your mind is busy with other things. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your keys won't disappear forever, and you'll have backup plans in case they happen to disappear.