How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the rush of getting kids to school, running errands, and working it is common for things to get lost. Our car keys are one of the most frequently lost items.
In the past, this wasn't a big deal because you could easily replace it at your local hardware store or locksmith. However, nowadays, it isn't as easy.
1. Call Your Car Dealership
If you have lost your car keys, the first place you should call is your dealer. The majority of dealers keep a record of every key that they have made for their cars, so they are likely to be able find yours. It is expensive to go to a dealership and therefore, you should look around. You might be able to find a cheaper option through a locksmith for cars.
You'll likely have to give the dealership your vehicle identification number or VIN, and proof of ownership (such as a copy of registration or title) to get an alternative key. The dealership will then order a new key and pair it with your vehicle. The dealer must complete this lengthy process.
Many vehicles today have the special kind of key known as a smart key. They are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, which allows for keyless entry and starting. They are typically used in conjunction with push-to-start ignitions. You can buy a new smart key from a dealership, but the cost is quite high. A local auto locksmith can design an intelligent key for you for about half the cost of what you'd buy from the dealership.
You can also replace the key you have always had at the local hardware store. They can make you a standard lock cylinder key. They'll need to know the model year of your vehicle and also the VIN. If you cannot locate the VIN on your vehicle it will be engraved on a metal plaque that is placed on the dashboard or driver's doorpost. Even if you don't have the original key, most automotive locksmiths can offer an alternative car key. In some instances the locksmith may need to disassemble the ignition and door locks to accomplish this. It is not a dangerous job, but it requires some mechanical knowledge.
2. Call an expert locksmith
The most frequent reason for roadside assistance is because you've lost your car keys. Keep a spare car key with you and store it in a safe place. However even the most vigilant people can lose their car keys. It is important to thoroughly search for the key and to inform your insurance company as quickly as you can to minimize the chances of getting denied a claim in the event that it turns up stolen later.
If you don't have a spare key, the next best option is to contact a locksmith. Locksmiths usually can provide a key replacement at less than what a dealership would charge. They are also able to come out to your location and make the key right there, which is much 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 have. Traditional keys that can be exchanged at the majority of hardware stores for around $10 each they are the least expensive. If your car is equipped with keys that can be used as a remote for unlocking and start the vehicle or a smart-key, which is only able to be replaced at a dealership, the cost of these keys will be more expensive than the standard one.
In most instances, an automotive locksmith can replace a key fob or smart key if they can get the VIN number for your car that is usually found on a metal plate on the driver's side doorpost, or in the windshield of the car. They will also need evidence that you have ownership of the vehicle and have an original registration or title.
It is essential to do your homework prior to hiring a locksmith. You can locate reputable auto locksmiths by searching online or asking your family and friends for suggestions. Also, be aware that using unauthorized keys to start your car could cause a breach of your vehicle's warranty. The use of keys that are not authorized could cause damage to your car's lock. If talking to to risk it is a good idea to call 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 worst reactions you can have when you lose your key. The first step is to take your breath and try to think about the situation. It is more likely you lost your keys than they were stolen. The next step is to go back your steps and figure out where they were lost. You may want to look in areas you're not usually checking, like the pockets of your pants or coat or a bag that you use for running. After you've looked in these places it is time to call your insurance provider.
Modern cars come with electronic keys that communicate through chips with the car. This process of communication allows the car to recognize the key fob, unlock the doors and then start the engine. It's important that you immediately report the loss of your keys immediately to stop unauthorized persons from utilizing your vehicle.
Some car insurance providers offer an insurance add-on that covers the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. It is worth contacting your insurance provider to see if they offer this type of protection or if you can locate an individual locksmith that will cover the cost.
If your car uses a standard mechanical key, you can get it replaced at a variety of hardware stores at a cost of a small amount. However, if your car is equipped with an electronic key fob that's connected to your car via the chip, you'll need to go to your dealership to request the replacement. It can be costly, but it is much cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.
In the event of filing an insurance claim due to a car key that was stolen can increase your insurance premiums. Your insurance company may increase your premiums because they will consider you a high-risk driver in the event of losing your key. Fortunately, you can reduce the costs by purchasing a tracking device to track your lost car keys or having a locksmith create 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 nobody would want it to happen. If it does happen, it can be expensive to replace keys and get back on the road. This is why it's important to be prepared for when it happens, so that you won't need to call a tow truck, and keep your money in your wallet.
If you've lost your car keys, the very first step is to retrace your steps. This will aid in determining where they are, and aid in calming your panic. You might remember doing something in the grocery store or dropping your keys on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you determine where you should start.
If you can't locate your keys, check places you might have placed them, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or in the bag that you used to carry them home. If you can't locate them, take a few minutes to relax before calling a locksmith or a tow truck.
Another option is to utilize an bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are tiny devices that you can attach to a keyring and an app on your phone will provide you with the whereabouts of your keys.
The cost of replacing a car key that is lost may differ based on the type of key you own. If you own a traditional key, an automotive locksmith can typically make a new one on the spot without the original, which can save you money. If you have a smart-key that uses proximity sensors to open the doors or turn on the engine of your car it is necessary to visit a dealership to get a replacement.
It's important to have a plan in place for when you lose your car keys, so that you can save yourself the headache of having to pay for an tow truck or locksmith. When you're tired or distracted, it's easy to lose your car keys. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your keys don't disappear forever, and have backup plans in the event that they happen to disappear.