How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Things tend to get lost in the hustle of getting children to and from school, completing errands and working. Our car keys are one of the most commonly lost items.
In the past, this wasn't an issue since you could easily replace it at your local hardware store or locksmith. This isn't the situation anymore.
1. Call Your Car Dealership
If you lose your car key, the first place you should contact is your local car dealer. The majority of car dealers keep track of every key made for their vehicles, so it should be easy for them to locate yours. The disadvantage is that going to the dealership can be expensive and it's essential to shop around. You might be able locate a lower cost solution by using an auto locksmith.
You will most likely need to give the dealership your vehicle identification number, or VIN, along with evidence of ownership (such as a copy of registration or title) to obtain an alternative key. The dealership will order an alternative key and connect it to your vehicle. The dealer will need to complete this lengthy process.
A lot of cars today come with keys that are specialized known as a smart key. These keys are designed to use a proximity sensor to be activated inside the car, allowing keyless entry and starting. They are usually paired with ignitions that have a push-to-start feature. You can purchase a new smart key from a dealership, but the price is very expensive. Local auto locksmiths can give you a smart key at only a fraction of the cost.
You can also get an old-fashioned key replacement from your local hardware store. They can design an ordinary lock cylinder key. They will need the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you are unable to locate the VIN it's usually printed on a metal plate that is located on the driver's side doorpost or dashboard. The majority of locksmiths for automotive will be able to offer an alternative car key even if you don't have the original. However, in some cases, they may need to take apart the door and ignition to accomplish this. This isn't a risky job for a professional, however it does require some mechanical expertise and skills.
2. Contact for a locksmith
Losing keys to your car is one of the most common causes for roadside assistance and calls. It's important to keep a spare key handy with you and ensure it's somewhere safe. However, even the most careful people can lose their car keys. You should check for the car key and inform your insurance provider immediately if you spot it. This will decrease the chance of your claim being denied later if your key is found stolen.
If you don't have an extra key, the next best option is to contact a locksmith. Locksmiths are usually able to provide a key replacement for less than the cost a dealership would charge. They will usually come out to your location and create the key on the spot and is more convenient than having to bring your vehicle back to the dealership.
The cost of replacing your car keys will differ based on the model you have. The most affordable keys are the traditional keys that can be bought at most hardware stores. They are priced at around $10 per key. If your car has the key fob, which acts like a remote and allows you to open and start the engine, or a smart key that can only be replaced by an auto dealer the keys will typically cost more than a traditional key.
In the majority of instances, an auto locksmith will be able to replace a key fob or smart key if they can get the VIN number of your car that is usually found on a metal plate on your driver's side doorpost or stamped into the windshield of the vehicle. They will need evidence of ownership, like your registration or title.
Some locksmiths are not licensed or insured, so be sure to research them before hiring. You can find qualified auto locksmiths on the internet or asking family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using unauthorized keys to start the car can result in a violation of your vehicle's warranty. The use of keys that are not authorized could cause damage to the lock of your vehicle. If you don't want to risk it, it's a good idea to call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith and wait for a replacement key from the dealer.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Panic is among the most negative reactions you can experience when you lose your keys. Relax, and then try to think about your situation. Most likely, you lost your keys because you misplaced them, instead of them being taken. The next step is to go back your steps and try to determine the place they went missing. It may help to look in places you don't normally look like pockets in your pants or coat, or in the bag you carry around for running. After you've checked these places, you should call your insurance provider.
Modern cars come with electronic keys that communicate with chips with the car. This communication allows the vehicle recognize the key fob, and then open the doors, as well as start the engine. It is crucial to report the loss of your key immediately to prevent unauthorized individuals from using your vehicle.
Some car insurance providers offer an insurance add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. It is worth contacting your insurance company to find out if they offer this type of coverage or if you can find an individual locksmith that can pay for the cost.
If your car uses the standard mechanical key, you'll be able to replace it at any hardware store at a cost of a small amount. However, if your vehicle has an electronic key fob that's linked to your vehicle via the chip, you'll have to visit your dealer for the replacement. It's expensive, but it is much cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.
Making an insurance claim due to the theft of your car key could increase your insurance costs. This is because your insurance company will consider you to be a high-risk driver for losing your car key and could increase your premiums to cover the cost of settling the claim. You can cut down on these additional costs by purchasing an electronic device to track your lost keys or hiring a professional locksmith to create a key without cloning the old key.
4. Contact Full Record truck
Everyone would hate to lose their car keys. It is the worst thing that can occur. But if it does, it can be costly to replace the lost key and get 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.
When you've lost your car keys, the very first thing to do is retrace your steps. This will allow you to locate the keys and calm your panic. Try to recall the actions you took prior to losing your keys, such as picking up something from the grocery store or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you find your starting point.
If you can't find your keys, look around where they might be, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing or the bag you put them in after you returned home. If you're unable to find them, take a moment to relax and then call an locksmith or a tow truck.
Another alternative is to make use of the bluetooth key tracker app on your phone. These are small devices that can connect to a keyring and an app on your smartphone will show you the whereabouts of your keys.
The cost of replacing lost car key can be a bit expensive dependent on the type of key you have. It is cheaper when you use an old-fashioned car key. A locksmith for automotive is usually capable of making a replacement on the spot, but without the original. But if you have an electronic key that relies on proximity sensors to open the door or start the engine, you'll need to go to the dealership to purchase a new one.
You should have a plan in place for the event that you lose your keys. This will help you avoid the hassle of paying for a tow-truck or locksmith. It's easy for you to forget your car keys when you're tired after a long day or when your mind is distracted by other things. By following these tips you can ensure that your keys don't disappear forever, and you'll have backup plans in the event that they do.