How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the shuffle of sending children to school, running errands, and working things tend to get lost. 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, nowadays, it isn't as simple.
1. Call Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person to contact in case you lose your key. Most dealers keep track of every key made for their vehicles, therefore it should be simple for them to locate your key. The disadvantage is that visiting the dealership can be expensive so it's crucial to shop around. You may be able locate a lower cost option by using an auto locksmith.
It is likely that you will need to provide the dealership with your vehicle identification number or VIN, and proof of ownership (such as a copy registration or title) to receive the replacement key. The dealership will order an alternative key and connect it to your vehicle. The dealer will need to complete this lengthy procedure.
Smart keys are a type of key that is utilized in many cars in the present. These keys are designed for proximity sensors 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 create a smart key for you for about half the cost of what you'd buy from the dealership.
You can also get a replacement for the key you have always had at your local hardware store. They can make you the standard lock cylinder keys. They will need the VIN and the model year. If you are unable to locate the VIN on your car it will be stamped on a metal plaque located on the dashboard or the driver's doorpost. The majority of locksmiths for automotive are able to offer the replacement for your 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 to accomplish this. It is not a dangerous job, but it does require some mechanical knowledge.
2. Call an expert locksmith
The misplacing of your car keys is among of the most common causes for roadside assistance or callouts. Keep an extra car key with you and keep it safe. However, even the most careful people can lose their car keys. You should look for the car keys and notify your insurance company immediately if you spot it. This will decrease the chance of your claim being rejected later should your key be found stolen.
Contacting a locksmith is the next best option when you don't have a spare. A locksmith can generally provide a replacement key at less than the dealership will cost. They can also come to your home to make the key right there which is easier than having your vehicle brought back to the dealer.
The type of car key that you have could affect the cost of replacing it. The most affordable keys are the standard keys that are available at the majority of hardware stores. They are priced at around $10 per key. If your car comes with an ignition key that can be used as a remote to lock and start the vehicle or a smart-key that can only by replaced at an auto dealer, the cost of these keys is usually more expensive than traditional keys.
A locksmith can replace the smart key or key fob in most cases so long 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 require evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
Some locksmiths aren't licensed or insured, so make sure to do your research 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. A key that is not authorized could damage the lock of your car. If you do not want to take this risk then contact roadside assistance instead of a car locksmith and wait until your dealer sends out a replacement key.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
One of the worst things you can do when you lose your car key is to panic. The first step is take your breath and try to think about the situation. Chances are that you lost your keys because you misplaced them instead of having them taken. So, news is to trace your steps and find out where they went missing. 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 inspected these areas, you should call your insurance provider.
Modern cars come with electronic keys that communicate through chips with the car. This communication process allows the car to recognize and open the doors and then start the engine. If you lose your key It is crucial to notify the police immediately to ensure that people who are not authorized don't get into your car and use it.
Some insurance companies offer an extra benefit to their policy that will cover the cost of a replacement key for your car. It is worth contacting your insurance provider to see if they offer this type of insurance or if they can locate an individual locksmith that will cover the cost.
If your car uses the standard mechanical key, you'll be able to get it replaced at most hardware stores for a small fee. If your car is equipped with an electronic key that connects to your car via the chip, then you will have to visit your dealer to purchase a replacement. It's expensive however it's much cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.
In addition to the expense of replacing your car keys, filing an insurance claim for a stolen key can cause your car insurance rates to rise. The insurance company could increase your premiums because they will consider you an extremely risky driver in the event of losing your key. You can reduce these expenses by purchasing an electronic device to track your lost keys or hiring a professional locksmith to design keys without copying the previous one.
4. Contact a Tow Truck
It's one of the most difficult things to lose your car keys, and no one wants it to happen. If it does happen it could be costly to replace the lost key and get you back on the road again. It's important to be prepared so that you don't need to call a tow-truck and keep your money.
If you've lost your car keys, the very first thing to do is trace your steps. This will allow you to locate them and calm your panic. Try to recall the actions you took prior to losing your keys, for example, grabbing something at the grocery store or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you to find your starting point.
If you are unable to locate your keys, check places you might have placed them, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or in the bag that you used to transport them home. If you're still not able to locate the keys, give yourself time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.
A key tracker bluetooth can also be utilized on your phone. These are tiny devices can be connected to your keyring and use an app installed on your phone to let you know where your keys are so you don't need to look through every drawer or pocket in your house.
The cost of replacing the car key that has been lost can vary depending on what kind of key you own. You could save money in the case of a traditional car key. An automotive locksmith will typically be in a position to create a new key on the spot, without the original. But if you have an electronic key that relies on the proximity sensor to open the door or start the engine, you'll need 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 a tow truck or a locksmith. It's easy to lose your car keys when you're tired after a long work day or when your mind is busy with other things. If you follow these suggestions to ensure that your keys won't vanish forever, and you have a backup plan in case the event that they do.