How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the rush of getting children to school, running errands, and working things tend to be lost. Car keys are among of the most frequently lost items.
In the past, this was not a big deal because you could easily replace it at your local hardware store or locksmith. Nowadays, that is not as easy.
1. Call Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should contact in case you lose your key. Most car dealers keep a log of every key made for their vehicles, making it easy for them to track down your key. The disadvantage is that going to the dealership can be costly, so it's important to shop for a different one. You may be able to find a cheaper solution through an automotive locksmith.
You'll likely have to provide the dealership with 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 with your vehicle. This could be a long process, and you will be waiting for the dealer to finish the job.
Smart keys are a type of key that is utilized in many cars today. They are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, allowing for keyless entry and starting. They are typically used in conjunction with ignitions that are push-to-start. You can purchase a brand new smart key from the dealership, but the cost is very high. A local auto locksmith can create the smart key at a fraction of what you'd buy from the dealership.
You can also purchase an old-fashioned key replacement from a local hardware store. They can create an ordinary lock cylinder key. They will require the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you cannot locate the VIN on your car, it will be stamped on a metal plaque located on the dashboard or doorpost. The majority of locksmiths for automotive are able to offer an alternative car key even if they don't have the original. In some instances they may have to disassemble the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. This is not a risky job for a professional, however it does require some mechanical skills and knowledge.
2. Call a Locksmith
Losing keys to your car is one of the most frequent reasons for roadside assistance and calls. Keep a spare car key with you and keep it safe. Even the most cautious of people can lose their keys. It's important to check thoroughly for the key and to inform your insurance company as soon as you can to minimize your chances of being denied a claim in the event that it happens to be stolen later.
If you don't have a spare key, the best option is to call the locksmith. Locksmiths can usually provide a key replacement at less than what a dealership would cost. They can also usually visit your place and make the key right there which is more efficient than having to take your vehicle back to the dealership.
The cost of replacing your car keys will vary based on the kind of key you own. Traditional keys are able to be replaced at most hardware stores for about $10 each, are the most affordable. If your car comes with a key fob that can be used as a remote for unlocking and start the vehicle or a smart-key that can only by replaced at a dealership, the cost of these keys is typically more expensive than traditional keys.
A locksmith can replace a 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 stamped on the windshield. They will also need evidence that you own the car and have the registration or title.
Always do your research before hiring locksmith. You can find qualified auto locksmiths on the internet or asking your family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using a fake key to start your vehicle could result in an infringement of warranty. lost vehicle keys that is not authorized could cause damage to the lock on your car. If you don't want to risk this, it's a good idea to contact 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 keys is to panic. The first thing you should do is take your breath and try to rationalize the situation. It is more likely that you lost your keys than they were stolen. So, the next step is to trace your steps and determine the location where they went missing. You may want to look in places you don't normally check such as the pockets of your pants or bag or coat that you use to run in. Once you've checked all these places it's a good idea to contact your insurance company.
Modern cars are fitted with electronic keys that connect to your car via a chip. This allows the car to recognize the key fob and open 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 don't get into your car and use it.
Certain insurance companies provide an additional benefit to their policies that will cover the cost of replacing a key for your car. Check with your insurance company to find out if this type of coverage is offered or if a locksmith can cover the cost.
You can usually replace a mechanical key in most hardware stores at a reasonable price. However, if your vehicle is equipped with an electronic key fob that's linked to your vehicle via the chip, you'll need to visit your dealer to request the replacement. It can be costly, but it's much more cost-effective than hiring locksmith.
Filing an insurance claim due to the theft of your car key could increase your insurance costs. Your insurance company could increase your premiums because they'll consider you to be a high-risk driver for losing your key. Fortunately, you can often save yourself the cost of purchasing a tracking device to track your lost car keys or having a locksmith make an entirely new key without copying the original.
4. Call a tow truck
It's one of the most difficult things to lose your car keys and no one wants to experience this. If it does happen it could be costly to replace the key and get back on the road. It's essential to be prepared in order that you don't have to call a tow truck and save your money.
If you've lost your car keys, the first step is to retrace your steps. This will help you locate them and calm your panic. Make a list of the actions you took prior to losing your keys, for example, grabbing something at the supermarket or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you identify your starting point.
If you're unable to locate your keys, look around where they might be, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing or the bag you put them in when you came home. If you are unable to locate them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.
A bluetooth key tracker can also be utilized on your phone. These are small devices that can attach to a keyring and an app on your phone will show you the location of your keys.
The cost to replace a lost car key can vary depending on what kind of key you own. If you own a traditional key that is used for automotive, a locksmith can usually make a new one on the spot without the original one, which will save you some money. If you are using a smart-key that utilizes a proximity detector to open doors or turn on your car's engine then you'll need to visit a dealership to get a replacement.
You should have a plan in place for the event that you lose your keys. This will save you the expense of a tow-truck or locksmith. It's easy to lose your car keys when you're tired 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 a back-up plan in the event that they happen to disappear.