How to Replace Lost Car Keys

In the hustle of taking children to school, running errands and working it is common for things to get lost. Car keys are among of the most commonly lost items.

In the past, this was not a big deal because you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. This isn't the situation anymore.

1. Call Your Car Dealership

If you have lost car key service your car key, the first place you should contact is your local car dealer. The majority of dealers have a record for every key made for their vehicles, which means they should be able to find yours. It's expensive to visit a dealership, so you should shop around. You might be able get a cheaper option through an auto locksmith.

It is likely that you will need to give the dealership your vehicle identification number or VIN, as well as evidence of ownership (such as a copy of your registration or title) to receive the replacement key. The dealership will then order the replacement key and attach it with your vehicle. This can be a lengthy process, and you will need to wait for the dealer to finish the task.

A lot of cars today have the special kind of key called a smart key. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, which allows for keyless entry and starting. These keys are often paired with ignitions that require a push-to start. You can purchase a new smart key at the dealership, but the cost is very high. Local auto locksmiths can create you a smart key at less than the cost.

You can also get an old-fashioned key replacement from a local hardware store. They can make you the standard lock cylinder keys. They will need the VIN and the model year. If you're unable to find the VIN, it is usually stamped on a metal plate located on the driver's side doorpost or dashboard. Most locksmiths in the automotive industry are 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 and ignition to do so. This isn't a risky job for a professional, but it does require some mechanical expertise and skills.

2. Call for a locksmith

The most frequent reason for seeking roadside assistance is because you've lost your car keys. It's important to keep a spare key handy with you and ensure it's somewhere safe. However even the most cautious people may lose their car keys. You should check for the car keys and inform your insurance provider immediately if you discover it. This will lower the likelihood of your claim being denied later should your key be found stolen.

If you don't have a spare key, the next best option is to call a locksmith. Locksmiths are usually able to provide a key replacement for less than what a dealership would charge. They can also come to your location to make the key on the spot which is much more convenient than having your vehicle brought back to the dealer.

The cost of replacing your car key can vary depending on the model you have. The most affordable keys are traditional keys that can be purchased at most hardware stores. They cost about $10 per key. If your car has the key fob, which functions as a remote and can be used to unlock and start the engine, or a smart-key, which can only be replaced by a dealership and will typically cost more than the traditional key.

In most cases, an automotive locksmith can replace the key fob or smart key as long as they can get the VIN number of your vehicle, which is typically found on a metal plaque on your driver's side doorpost or etched into the windshield of the vehicle. They will also require evidence that you have ownership of the vehicle, such as the registration or title.

Some locksmiths aren't licensed or insured, so make sure to research them before hiring them. You can find reputable auto locksmiths on the internet or asking family and friends for recommendations. Also, be aware that using keys that are not yours to start your car could lead to the violation of your vehicle's warranty. A key that is not authorized could cause damage to the lock of your car. If you do not wish to take this risk then contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith for your car and wait until the dealer sends out a replacement key.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

One of the worst things you could do when you lose your car key is to panic. The first thing to do is to take a deep breath and try to rationalize the situation. It is more likely you lost your keys than they were stolen. The next step is to retrace the steps you took and attempt to find out where your keys were. You might want to check areas you're not usually checking such as the pockets of your pants, bag or coat you carry to run in. After you've checked these places you must contact your insurance provider.

Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate via chips with the car. This communication lets the car recognize the key fob, and then open the doors, and start the engine. If you lose your key It is crucial to report this immediately so that unauthorized people don't get into your car and use it.

Some insurance companies offer an extra benefit to their policy that covers the cost of replacing a key for your car. It's worth checking with your insurance provider to determine whether they provide this kind of protection or if you can find an individual locksmith that will pay for the cost.

You can usually replace a mechanical key in most hardware stores at a reasonable cost. However, if your car has an electronic key fob that's connected to your car via the chip, you'll have to visit your dealer to request an upgrade. It can be costly but it's cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.

In addition to the expense of replacing your car keys, filing an insurance claim for the loss of a key could cause your car insurance rates to increase. Your insurance company could increase your premiums as they'll consider you to be a high-risk motorist for losing your key. Fortunately, you can often avoid the extra expenses by purchasing a device to locate your car key that has been lost key in car or having a locksmith create an entirely new key without copying the original.

4. Contact towing truck

It's the most gruelling thing to lose your car keys and nobody would want to experience this. If it does happen it could cost a lot to replace the key and get back on the road. It is important to be prepared in order that you don't need to call a tow-truck and can keep your money.

When you've lost your car keys, the very first thing to do is retrace your steps. This will help you find them and ease your anxiety. Try to recall what to do if lost car keys you did prior to losing your keys, like grabbing something at the supermarket or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you determine where you should start.

If you're unable to locate your keys, look around in which they could be, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing or the bag you put them in after you returned home. If you can't find them, take some time to relax and then call an locksmith or a 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 also have an app installed on your phone that can show you where your keys are, so you don't need to look through every pocket or drawer in your home.

The cost of replacing a lost car key may vary dependent on the type of key that you own. If you own a traditional key, an automotive locksmith can usually make a new one on the spot without the original one, which can save you money. But if you have a smart key that uses proximity sensors to open the door or start the engine, you'll need go to the dealer to get a replacement.

It's essential to have a plan for when you lose your car keys, so that you will not have the hassle of having to pay for the 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 mind is on other things. By following these tips you can ensure that your keys don't disappear forever, and have backup plans in the event that they do.