How to Replace Lost Car Keys

In the hustle of sending children to school, running errands, and working things tend to get lost. Car keys are among of the most frequently lost items.

In the past, you could easily replace this at the local locksmith or hardware store. This is not the situation any more.

1. Call Your Car Dealership

Your car dealer is the first person to contact in case you lose your key. The majority of car dealers keep records of each key they make for their vehicles, so they will be able to locate yours. It can be costly to go to a dealership and you should look around. You might be able get a cheaper option by using an auto locksmith.

In the majority of cases, you will need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, such as a copy of your title or registration, to obtain an alternative key from the dealership. The dealership will then purchase a new key and pair it with your vehicle. This can be a lengthy process, and you'll need to wait for the dealer to complete the task.

Smart keys are a type of key used in many cars today. These keys 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 are push-to-start. Dealers will offer you a smart key, but it is expensive. Local auto locksmiths can give you a smart lock at less than the cost.

You can also purchase a replacement for the key you have always had at your local hardware store. They can design the standard lock cylinder keys. They will need to know the model year of your vehicle and the VIN. If you are unable to locate the VIN on your vehicle it will be stamped on a metal plaque that is placed on the dashboard or doorpost. Most locksmiths in the automotive industry can provide you with the replacement for your car key even if they don't have the original. However, in some cases, they may need to take apart the ignition and door locks to accomplish this. This is not a risky job for a professional, however it requires some mechanical expertise and skills.

2. Call a locksmith

Misplacing keys to your car is one of the most common reasons for roadside assistance and callouts. It's important to keep a spare key with your person and ensure that it's somewhere safe. Even the most careful people may lose their keys. It is important to thoroughly search for the key and to inform your insurance company as quickly as possible in order to decrease the chance of being denied a claim if the key is found later stolen.

If you don't have an extra key, the next best option is to call an locksmith. Locksmiths can usually offer a replacement key for less than what a dealership would cost. They are also able to come out to your location and make the key right there and is more convenient than having to bring your vehicle back to the dealership.

The cost of replacing your car key will vary based on the type you own. Keys that are traditional that can be exchanged at most hardware stores for $10 each, are the most affordable. If your car is equipped with a key fob, which acts like a remote and can be used to unlock and start the engine or a smart-key, which can only be replaced by a dealership the keys will typically cost more than a traditional key.

A locksmith can replace a smart key or key fob in most cases as long as they have the VIN number of your car. This is usually found on the metal plate that is on the driver's doorpost or stamped on the windshield. They will also need proof that you have ownership of the vehicle by providing an original registration or title.

Some locksmiths are not licensed or insured, so be sure to research them before hiring them. You can find auto-locksmiths who are certified by searching on the internet or asking family members and friends for suggestions. Also, be aware that using keys that are not yours to start the car can cause a violation of your vehicle's warranty. A key that is not authorized could damage the lock of your vehicle. If you don't want to take this risk is 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 worst things you can do when you lose your car key is to panic. Take a deep breath and then try to rationalize your situation. Chances are that you lost key for car your keys because you lost them, instead of having them stolen. The next step is to go back your steps and try to find out the place they disappeared. You may want to look in places you don't normally check such as the pockets of your pants, coat or a bag that you use to run in. After you've checked these places it is time to call your insurance company.

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate with your car via a chip. This communication lets the car recognize the key fob, and then open the doors, and start the engine. If you lose your keys it is important to report it immediately to ensure that people who are not authorized aren't able to enter your vehicle and use it.

Certain insurance companies provide an add-on to their policy that covers the cost of replacing a car key. It is worth contacting your insurance provider to determine if they offer this type of insurance or if they can locate an individual locksmith that will pay for the cost.

If your car uses the standard mechanical key, you can replace it at a variety of hardware stores for a nominal cost. If, however, your car has an electronic key fob that is connected to your car via the chip, you'll need go to the dealership to request the replacement. It can be costly however it's cheaper than hiring locksmith.

In addition to the expense of replacing your car keys, filing an insurance claim to replace a lost car key replacement cost key can cause your car insurance rates to rise. This is because your insurance provider will consider you to be a high-risk driver for i Have lost my car keys losing your car keys, and may raise your premiums to offset the cost of settling a claims claim. You can reduce these expenses by purchasing a device that tracks your lost key to locate your lost key or having a professional locksmith create a key without cloning the old one.

4. Contact a Tow truck

It's one of the most difficult things to lose your car keys and no one wants to see it happen. If it happens, it can be expensive to replace the key and get back on the road. It's important to be prepared so that you don't have call a tow truck and save your money.

Follow your steps if you've lost your keys. This will help you locate them and calm your panic. You may remember doing something at the grocery store or putting your keys on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you to find your starting point.

If you're unable to locate your keys, search for places where they might be, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing or the bag you put them in after you returned home. If you're still unable to locate the keys, give yourself time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.

Another option is to utilize the bluetooth key tracker app on your phone. These are small devices that can attach to a keyring and an app for your smartphone will display the whereabouts of your keys.

The cost to replace 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 generally make a new key in a matter of minutes without the original one, which can save you money. However, if you own an electronic key that utilizes a proximity sensor to open the door or turn on the engine, you'll have go to the dealer to purchase a new one.

It's essential to have a plan to deal with the loss of your car keys, so you can avoid the hassle of having to pay for the tow truck or locksmith. When you're stressed or distracted, it's easy to lose your keys to your car. But by following these tips you can ensure your keys don't disappear forever and I Have Lost My Car Keys a backup plan when they do.