How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Things tend to get lost in the rush of getting kids to and from school, running errands and working. One of the most frequent things that get lost is our keys to our cars.
In the past you could easily change this at your local hardware or locksmith store. This isn't the case anymore.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should call in case you lose your key. lost car key of dealers keep records of every key that they have made for their cars, so they should be able to find yours. It can be costly to visit a dealership and you should shop around. You might be able locate a lower cost solution through an automotive locksmith.
In the majority of instances, you'll need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and evidence of ownership, like an original registration or title, to get a replacement key from the dealership. The dealership will request an alternative key and connect it to your vehicle. The dealer will have to complete this lengthy procedure.
Many vehicles today come with keys that are specialized called a smart key. These keys are designed to use a proximity sensor to be activated inside the car, allowing keyless entry and start. These keys are typically used with ignitions that require a push to start. The dealer can sell you a smart key, but it's costly. A local auto locksmith can design a smart key for you for about half the cost of what you would pay at the dealership.
You can also purchase a classic key replacement from your local hardware store. They will be able to make you a standard key that is compatible with the lock cylinder in your car. They will need the VIN and the model year. If you are unable to locate the VIN, it is usually stamped on a metal plaque that is located on the driver's side doorpost or the dashboard. Even if you don't have the original, most locksmiths for automotive can provide you with an alternative car key. In certain instances, the locksmith may have to take apart the door lock and ignition in order to complete the task. It's not a risky job, but it does require some knowledge of mechanics.
2. Call an expert locksmith
The most frequent reason for roadside assistance is that you have lost your car keys. Keep a spare car key in your bag and keep it safe. Even the most careful of people may lose their keys. It is important to thoroughly search for the key and to inform your insurance company as soon as possible to reduce the chances of getting denied a claim if it turns up stolen later.
If you don't have a spare key, the best option is to call the locksmith. Locksmiths can usually provide a replacement key for less than what the dealership would cost. They are also able to visit your place and make the key right there, which is much more efficient than having to take your vehicle back to the dealership.
The type of car key that 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 they are the least expensive. If your car has an ignition key fob that acts as a remote that can be used to unlock and start the engine, or a smart-key, which can only be changed by an auto dealer the keys will typically cost more than the traditional key.
A locksmith can replace keys that are smart or fob in the majority of cases as long as they have the VIN number for your vehicle. It is usually located on the metal plate that is on the driver's doorpost, or on the windshield. They will need proof of ownership, like your registration or title.
Some locksmiths are not licensed or insured, so be sure to do your research prior to hiring. You can find reputable auto locksmiths by searching on the internet, or asking family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using an unlicensed key to start your vehicle could result in a breach of warranty. The use of a key that is not authentic could cause damage to the lock of your car. If you don't want to risk it is a good idea to contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith, and wait for your replacement key from the dealer.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Panic is one of the most negative reactions you can experience when you lose your key. Take a deep breath and then try to reason your situation. It is more likely that you misplaced your keys than they were stolen. The next step is to trace your steps and figure out the place they were lost. You might want to check places you don't normally check like the pockets of your pants or bag or coat that you use to run in. After you've inspected all these places it's a good idea call your insurance company.
Modern cars come with electronic keys that communicate through an electronic chip with the car. This communication lets the car recognize the key fob and open the doors, as well as start the engine. It is essential to immediately report the loss of your keys immediately to prevent anyone who is not authorized from utilizing your vehicle.
Certain insurance companies provide an extra benefit to their policy that will cover the cost of replacing a car key. It's worth checking with your insurance provider to see whether they provide this kind of coverage or if you can locate an individual locksmith that can cover the cost.
If your car is equipped with an ordinary mechanical key, you can get it replaced at most hardware stores for a nominal cost. However, if your car has an electronic key fob that's linked to your vehicle via the chip, you'll need to go to your dealership for the replacement. It can be costly but it's also cheaper than hiring locksmith.
In addition to the cost of replacing your car key, filing an insurance claim for a stolen key can cause your car insurance rates to increase. This is because your insurance company will consider you to be a high-risk driver for losing your car keys, and may raise your premiums in order to offset the cost of making a claims claim. Fortunately, you can avoid the extra expenses by buying a tracking device that can locate your car key that has been lost or having a locksmith create an entirely new key without copying the original.
4. Contact a Tow truck
Nobody wants to lose their car keys. It is the worst thing that could happen. If it does happen, it can be expensive to replace keys and get back on the road. It's why it's important to be prepared for when it does, so you can avoid having to call an tow truck and keep your money in your wallet.
Retrace your steps if you've lost your keys. This will help you find the keys and calm your panic. You might remember doing something in the supermarket or dropping your keys on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you determine the place to start.
If you cannot find your keys, check places where you could have put them, such as the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or in the bag that you carried them in to take them to home. If you are unable to find them, take a moment to relax, and then call a locksmith or tow truck.
Another option is to make use of a bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are small devices you can attach to a keyring, and an app for your smartphone will display the whereabouts of your keys.
The cost of replacing the car key that has been lost can differ based on the type of key you own. You can save money if you have a traditional car key. A locksmith for automotive will usually be in a position to create a new key on the spot, without the original. If you have a smart-key that uses proximity sensors to open doors or turn on the engine of your car it is necessary go to the dealer to purchase a new one.
It is essential to have a plan in case you lose your car keys, so that you will not have the hassle of having to pay for an tow truck or locksmith. It's easy to forget your car keys when you're exhausted after a long day, or when your thoughts are focused on other things. If you follow these suggestions, you can make sure that your keys don't vanish forever, and you have a backup plan in case when they do.