How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the shuffle of taking children to school, running errands, and working it is common for things to be lost. Our car keys are one of the most commonly lost items.
In the past, you could easily replace this at your local locksmith or hardware store. This isn't the situation anymore.
1. Call replace lost car key
If you lose your car key, the first place to contact is your dealer. Most car dealers keep track of each key designed for their vehicles, making it easy for them to find your key. It can be costly to visit a dealership and you should shop around. You may be able to locate a lower cost option by using an auto locksmith.
In most instances, you'll need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and evidence of ownership, like a copy of the title or registration, to obtain an alternative key from the dealership. The dealership will then request an additional key and connect it with your vehicle. The dealer will have to complete this lengthy procedure.
Many cars today come with a special type of key known as a smart key. They are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, which allows the use of a keyless entry system and even starting. They are usually paired 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 at a fraction of what you would buy from the dealership.
You can also purchase a classic key replacement at your local hardware store. They will be able to create a standard key that is compatible with the lock cylinder in your car. They'll need the year of manufacture of your vehicle and the VIN. If you can't find the VIN on your vehicle it will be engraved on a plaque made of metal that is located on the dashboard or the driver's doorpost. Even if you don't have the original key, most locksmiths for automotive can offer a replacement car key. However, in some cases they may have to remove the door and ignition to accomplish this. It's not a risky job, but it requires some technical knowledge.
2. Call an expert locksmith
The most frequent reason for seeking roadside assistance is because you've lost your car keys. Keep an extra car key with you and store it safely. Even the most careful people may lose their keys. You should look for the car keys and inform your insurance provider immediately if you find it. This will reduce the chances 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 call an locksmith. Locksmiths can usually 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 right there which is more convenient than having to bring your vehicle back to the dealership.
The kind of car key you have could affect the cost to replace it. Keys with traditional designs, which can be replaced at the majority of hardware stores for around $10 each and are the cheapest. If your car is equipped with keys that can be used as a remote to lock and start the car, or a smart-key that can only be replaced at a dealership, the cost of these keys is usually more expensive than the standard one.
In the majority of instances, an auto locksmith can replace the key fob or smart key as long as they have the VIN number of your vehicle, which is typically found on a metal plate that is placed on the driver's side doorpost, or etched into the windshield of your vehicle. They will require evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
Some locksmiths aren't licensed or insured, so be sure to research them before hiring them. You can find reputable auto locksmiths on the internet or asking family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using an unlicensed key to start your vehicle could cause an infringement of warranty. A key that is not authorized could damage the lock of your vehicle. If you do not wish to take this risk then call roadside help instead of a locksmith for your car and wait until your dealer delivers a new key.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
One of the worst things you can do when you lose your car keys is to panic. The first thing you should do is to take your breath and try to understand the situation. It is likely that you lost your keys due to you misplaced them, rather than having them stolen. The next step is to retrace your steps and attempt to determine the place they were lost. It may help to look around in places that you wouldn't usually check for items, like pockets in your pants or coat or in a bag you use when running. After you've inspected all these places it's a good idea contact your insurance company.
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate via a chip with the car. This allows the car to recognize the key fob, unlock the doors and start the engine. It is crucial to inform the authorities of the loss of your key immediately to stop unauthorized persons from accessing your vehicle.
Some insurance companies offer an extra benefit to their policy that covers the cost of a replacement key for your car. It's worth checking with your insurance provider to see whether they have this type of protection or if you can find an individual locksmith that will pay for the cost.
It is possible to replace a mechanical key in most hardware stores for a reasonable cost. If your car uses an electronic key that connects to your car via the chip, then you will need to visit your dealership to get an alternative. It's not cheap but it's cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.
Filing an insurance claim due to the theft of your car key could increase your insurance rates. This is because your insurance provider will view you as high-risk driver for loosing your car key, and may raise your premiums in order to offset the cost of paying out a claims claim. You can reduce these expenses by purchasing a tracking device that will locate your lost key or having a professional locksmith create a key without cloning the previous key.
4. Contact a Tow truck
No one wants to lose their car keys. It's the worst scenario that could happen. If it does happen it can be expensive 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 can keep your money.
When you've lost your car keys, the first thing to do is trace your steps. This will help you find the keys and calm your panic. You might recall doing something at the grocery store, or dropping your keys on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you pinpoint your starting point.
If you can't find your keys, search for places in which they could 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 and then call a locksmith or a tow truck.
Another alternative is to use the bluetooth key tracker app on your phone. These are small devices you can connect to a keyring and an app on your smartphone will show you the whereabouts of your keys.
The cost to replace a lost car key can differ depending on the type of key you own. If you own a traditional key an automotive locksmith will usually make a new one immediately without the original, which will save you some money. If you have a smart-key that uses a proximity detector to open the doors or turn on your car's engine it is necessary go to the dealer to obtain a replacement.
It's important to have a plan to deal with the loss of your car keys, so that you can save yourself the headache of having to pay for a tow truck or a locksmith. When you're tired or distracted, it's not difficult to lose your keys to your car. By following these tips you can ensure that your keys don't disappear forever, and you'll have a back-up plan in case they happen to disappear.