How to Replace Lost Car Keys

In the hustle of taking children to school, running errands, and working it is common for things to become lost. One of the most frequent things that get lost is our keys to our cars.

In the past you could easily replace this at your local locksmith or hardware store. This isn't the case anymore.

1. Contact Your Car Dealership

Your car dealer is the first person you should contact should you lose your keys. The majority of car dealers keep a log of every key made for their vehicles, therefore it should be simple for them to find your keys. The disadvantage is that going to the dealership can be costly so it's crucial to shop for a different one. You might be able to find a cheaper option through an automotive locksmith.

You'll likely have to provide the dealership with your vehicle identification number or VIN, along with proof of ownership (such as a copy of registration or title) to get an alternative key. The dealership will order a replacement key and pair it to your vehicle. The dealer must complete this lengthy process.

Smart keys are a kind of key that is utilized in a variety of cars today. These keys are designed for a proximity sensor that can be activated within the car, which allows keyless entry and start. They are usually used with ignitions that have a push-to-start feature. The dealer will sell 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 purchase from a dealership.

You can also get a traditional key replacement from a local hardware store. They can make you the standard lock cylinder keys. They will need the VIN and the model year. If you cannot locate the VIN on your car, it will be stamped on a plaque made of metal that is located on the dashboard or motor driver's doorpost. Even if you don't have the original, many locksmiths for automotive will be able to provide you with an alternate car key. In some instances, they may need to disassemble the ignition and door locks in order to do this. This is not a dangerous job for a professional, however it does require some mechanical skills and knowledge.

2. Call for a locksmith

The most frequent reason for requesting roadside assistance is when you've lost your car keys. Keep a spare car key in your bag and store it in a safe place. However, even the most careful people can lose their car keys. It's important to check thoroughly for the keys and notify your insurance company as soon as you can to minimize the chances of getting denied a claim if the key turns up stolen later.

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

The type of car key you have could affect the cost to replace it. Keys that are traditional, which can be replaced at the majority of hardware stores for around $10 each, are the most affordable. If your car is equipped with an ignition key that can be used as a remote to unlock and start the vehicle, or a smart-key, which can only by replaced at an auto dealer, the cost of these keys is usually more expensive than traditional keys.

A locksmith can replace keys that are smart or fob in most cases so long as they have the VIN number for your vehicle. It is usually located on the metal plaque on the driver's doorpost, or on the windshield. They will require evidence of ownership, like your registration or title.

Some locksmiths aren't licensed or insured, so be sure to research them before hiring. You can locate reputable auto locksmiths by searching online or asking friends and family for recommendations. Also, be aware that using keys you have not authorized to start the car can cause a breach of the warranty on your vehicle. Unauthorized keys can damage your car's lock. If you don't want to risk it you should consider 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 could do when you lose your car keys is to panic. The first step is take an inhale and try to rationalize the situation. It is more likely that you lost your keys than they were stolen. The next step is retrace the steps you took and attempt to find out where your keys went missing. It could be helpful to look around in places that you would not normally check like the pockets of your coat or pants or in the bag you carry around when running. After you've inspected all these places, it's a good idea to call your insurance company.

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that connect to your car through a chip. This communication allows the vehicle recognize the key fob and unlock the doors, as well as start the engine. It is crucial to immediately report the loss of your keys immediately to prevent anyone who is not authorized from using your vehicle.

Some car insurance providers offer a policy add-on that covers the cost of replacing a lost a car key car key. Check with your insurance company to find out if this type of coverage is offered or if an individual locksmith can pay for the costs.

You can usually replace a mechanical key in most hardware stores for a fair price. However, if your car has an electronic key fob that's paired with your car through the chip, you'll have go to the dealership to get a replacement. This can be expensive however it's cheaper than hiring locksmith.

In addition to the expense of replacing your car keys and filing an insurance claim to replace a lost key could cause your car insurance rates to rise. The insurance company could increase your premiums because they'll consider you to be a high-risk motorist for losing your key. You can avoid these extra costs by purchasing a device that tracks your lost key to track your lost keys or having a professional locksmith create keys without copying the previous one.

4. Call towing truck

No one wants to lose their car keys. It's the worst thing that can occur. However, if it does happen it can be expensive to replace the key that was lost and get you back on the road again. It's important to be prepared in order that you don't have call a tow truck and save your money.

Follow your steps if you've lost car key with no spare your keys. This will help you find the keys and calm your panic. Try to recall the actions you took prior to losing your keys, for example, picking up something from the supermarket or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you to determine where you should start.

If you can't find 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 got home. If you're unable to locate them, take a few minutes to relax before calling an locksmith or a tow truck.

A bluetooth key tracker can also be used on your phone. These are tiny devices that you can attach to your keyring and have an app on your phone to reveal where your keys are, so you don't need to look through every pocket or drawer within your home.

The cost to replace a lost car key can differ based on the type of key you have. You could save money in the case of a traditional car key. An automotive locksmith will usually be in a position to create a new key immediately, and without the original. If you have a smart-key that uses proximity sensors to open the doors or start the engine of your car it is necessary to visit the dealership to get a replacement.

It is important to have a plan in place for the event that you lose your keys. This will spare you the hassle of having to pay for the tow-truck or locksmith. When you're tired or distracted, it's not difficult to lose your keys to your car. If you follow these steps, you can make sure that your keys don't disappear forever, and you'll have an alternative plan in the event that they do.