How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the shuffle of sending children to school, running errands and working, things have a tendency to get lost. Our car keys are one of the most commonly lost items.
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've lost your car keys The first place you should call is your dealer. The majority of dealers have a record for every key made for their cars, so they will be able to locate yours. The drawback is that visiting the dealership can be costly, so it's important to look for a different one. You may be able to locate a lower cost solution through an auto locksmith.
In the majority of instances, you'll have to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and evidence of ownership, such as a copy of the registration or title, to get a replacement key from the dealer. The dealership will then purchase a new key and pair it with your vehicle. This can be a lengthy process, and you will have to wait for the dealer to complete the job.
Smart keys are a type of key that is used in many cars today. These keys are designed for a proximity sensor to be activated within the car, which allows keyless entry and starting. They are typically used in conjunction with ignitions that have a push-to-start feature. Dealers will offer you a smart key, but it's costly. A local auto locksmith can make an intelligent key for you at a fraction of what you would purchase from a dealership.
You can also get a classic key replacement from your local hardware store. They can create the standard lock cylinder keys. They will need the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you can't locate the VIN it's usually printed on a metal plate located on the driver's side doorpost or dashboard. Even if you do not have the original key, most locksmiths for automotive can provide you with a replacement car key. However, in some cases they may have to remove the door and ignition to do so. It is not a dangerous task, but it requires some mechanical knowledge.
2. Contact a Locksmith
Losing keys to your car is one of the most common causes for roadside assistance and callouts. It's important to keep a spare key on you and ensure it's safe. However even the most cautious people can lose their car keys. It's important to check thoroughly for the key and to inform your insurance company as soon as you can to minimize the chance of being denied a claim if it happens to be stolen later.
If you don't have a spare key, the best option is to call an locksmith. Locksmiths can usually provide a replacement key for less than the dealership will cost. They are also able to come out to your location and make the key right there, which is much more efficient than having to take your vehicle back to the dealership.
The cost of replacing your car keys can vary depending on the type you own. g28carkeys with traditional designs are able to be replaced at most hardware stores for $10 each and are the cheapest. If your vehicle is equipped with keys that can be used as a remote to unlock and start the vehicle, or a smart-key that is only able to be replaced at a dealership, the price of these keys is usually higher than the traditional one.
A locksmith can replace the smart key or key fob in the majority of cases as long they have the VIN number for your vehicle. This number is typically found on the metal plaque on the driver's doorpost, or on the windshield. They will also need proof that you have ownership of the vehicle, such as an original registration or title.
It is essential to do your research before hiring locksmith. You can find qualified auto-locksmiths by searching online or asking family members and friends for recommendations. Also, be aware that using keys that are not yours to start your car could lead to the breach of the warranty on your vehicle. 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, it is best to contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith for your car and wait until your dealer provides a replacement key.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
One of the most dangerous things you can do when you lose your car keys is to panic. The first thing to do is take your breath and try to rationalize the situation. It is more likely that you lost your keys than they were stolen. The next step is to go back through the steps you took and try to locate where your keys were. It could be helpful to check places you don't normally look, such as the pockets of your pants or coat or in the bag you carry around when you run. After you've checked these places you must contact your insurance provider.
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate via an electronic chip with the car. This allows the vehicle to recognize and unlock the doors and then start the engine. It is essential to immediately report the loss of your key immediately to prevent anyone who is not authorized from using your vehicle.
Some car insurance providers offer an insurance add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost car key. It's worth checking with your insurance company to find out if they offer this type of coverage or if you can locate an individual locksmith that will cover the cost.
You can usually replace a mechanical key in many hardware stores for a fair cost. However, if your car is equipped with an electronic key fob that is paired with your car through the chip, you'll have to go to your dealership for a replacement. It's not cheap however it's much cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.
In addition to the cost of replacing your car key and filing an insurance claim to replace a lost key could cause your car insurance rates to increase. This is because your insurance provider will view you as high-risk driver for loosing your car key and could increase your premiums to cover the cost of settling an insurance claim. You can cut down on these additional cost by buying an electronic device to track your lost key or having a professional locksmith create a key without cloning the old one.
4. Call a Tow truck
No one wants to lose their car keys. It is the worst scenario that could occur. But if it does it could be costly to replace the key that was lost and get back on the road. It's essential to be prepared so that you don't have to call a tow truck and save your money.
Retrace your steps in case you've lost your keys. This will aid in determining where they are, and aid in calming your panic. Try to remember the actions you took prior to losing your keys, for example, buying something at the supermarket or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you find your place of origin.
If you cannot find your keys, search in 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 to home. If you are unable to locate them, take a few minutes to relax before calling an locksmith or a tow truck.
Another option is to utilize the bluetooth key tracker app on your phone. These are tiny devices that you can attach to your keyring, and also have an app on your phone that can reveal where your keys are so you don't need to go through every drawer or pocket within your home.
The cost of replacing lost car key may vary according to the type of key you own. You can save money in the case of a traditional car key. An automotive locksmith will typically be capable of making a replacement immediately, and without the original. If you have a smart-key that uses a proximity detector to open the doors or start your car's engine, you will need go to the dealer to obtain a replacement.
It is essential to have a plan in place in case you lose your car keys, so that you will not have the hassle of having to pay for an tow truck or locksmith. It's easy for you to forget your car keys when you're exhausted after a long work day or when your thoughts are focused on other things. By following these guidelines, you can make sure that your keys don't disappear forever, and have an alternative plan in case they do.