How to Replace Lost Car Keys

In the shuffle of sending children to school, running errands, and working it is common for things to be lost. One of the most frequently lost items that disappears is our car keys.

In the past, this wasn't a big deal because you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. This is not the case anymore.

1. Call Your Car Dealership

Your car dealer is the first person to contact if you lose your key. The majority of car dealers keep records of every key made for their cars, so they should be able to find your key. The downside is that visiting the dealership can be costly so it's crucial to shop for a different one. You may be able to get a cheaper option through an auto locksmith.

In most instances, you'll have to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, like an original registration or title, in order to get an alternative key from the dealership. The dealership will request an alternative key and connect it with your vehicle. The dealer will need to complete this lengthy procedure.

A lot of cars today are equipped with a special type of key known as a smart keys. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, which allows for keyless entry and starting. These keys are often paired with ignitions that require a push-to start. Dealers will offer you a smart key however, it's expensive. Local auto locksmiths can create you a smart key at a fraction of the cost.

You can also get an old-fashioned key replacement from your local hardware store. They can make a standard key that fits your vehicle's lock cylinder. They will need the VIN and the model year. If you're unable to find the VIN it's usually printed on a metal plate found on the driver's doorpost or the dashboard. The majority of locksmiths for automotive are able to offer a car key replacement, even if you don't have the original. In some cases, the locksmith may have to disassemble the door lock and ignition in order to do this. It's not a risky job, but it does require some technical knowledge.

2. Call a Locksmith

The misplacing of keys to your car is one of the most common causes for roadside assistance and calls. Keep a spare car key in your bag and keep it safe. Even the most cautious of people can lose their keys. It is essential to search thoroughly for the keys and inform your insurance company as soon as possible in order to decrease the chances of getting denied a claim in the event that it is found later stolen.

If you don't have an extra key, your next best option is to call a locksmith. Locksmiths can usually provide a key replacement at less than the cost a dealership would charge. They are also able to visit your location and create the key right there and is more efficient than having to take your vehicle back to the dealership.

The type of car key you are using can impact the cost to replace it. Traditional keys are able to be replaced at the majority of hardware stores for around $10 each and are the cheapest. If your vehicle is equipped with keys that can be used as a remote to unlock and start the vehicle, or a smart-key that is only able to be replaced at a dealership, the price of these keys is usually higher than the traditional one.

A locksmith can replace a smart key or key fob in most cases as long they have the VIN number for your vehicle. This is usually found on the metal plate on the driver's doorpost or stamped on the windshield. They will need evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.

Some locksmiths aren't licensed or insured, so be sure to investigate them prior to hiring. You can find auto-locksmiths who are certified by searching online, or asking family and friends for suggestions. Be aware that using keys you have not authorized to start the car can lead to the violation of your vehicle's warranty. Using unauthorized key may also cause damage to the lock on your vehicle. If you don't want to take this risk, it is best to contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith for your car and wait until your dealer provides a replacement key.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

One of the worst things you could do when you lose your car keys is to panic. Take a deep breath and then try to rationalize your situation. It is likely that you lost your keys due to you lost them, rather than having them taken. The next step is to go back through the steps you took and try to locate the location where your keys went missing. You might want to check areas you're not usually checking such as the pockets of your pants, or a bag or coat that you use for running. After you've checked these places, you should call your insurance company.

Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate via an electronic chip with the car. This process of communication allows the car to recognize and open the doors, and also start the engine. It's important that you immediately report the loss of your key immediately to prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing your vehicle.

Certain car insurance companies provide a policy add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. Contact your insurance provider to determine if this kind of coverage is available or if a locksmith can cover the cost.

If your car has the standard mechanical key, you can have it replaced at most hardware stores at a cost of a small amount. If, however, your car has an electronic key fob that's linked to your vehicle via the chip, you'll need go to the dealership for an upgrade. It can be costly, but it is much cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.

In addition to the cost of replacing your car keys, filing an insurance claim to replace lost car key a lost key can cause your car insurance rates to rise. The insurance company could increase your premiums as they'll view you as an extremely risky driver in the event of losing your key. Fortunately, you can avoid the extra expenses by purchasing a device to locate your car key that has been lost or having a locksmith create the new key without cloning the original.

4. Call a tow truck

No one wants to lose their car keys. It's the worst thing that can happen. If it happens it could be costly to replace keys and get back on the road. It's important to be prepared in order that you don't have call a tow truck and save your money.

When you've lost your car keys, the very first thing to do is trace your steps. This can help you determine where they are and aid in calming your panic. Make a list of what you did prior to losing your keys, such as grabbing something at the grocery store or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you determine your starting point.

If you can't locate your keys, search in places where you may have put 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 find them, take a moment to relax, and then call a locksmith or a tow truck.

Another option is to make use of a bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are small devices that can be connected to your keyring and use an app installed on your phone that will let you know where your keys are, so you don't have to go through every drawer or pocket in your home.

The cost of replacing a car key that is lost may differ based on the type of key you have. You can save money in the case of traditional car keys. A locksmith for automotive is usually able to make a replacement on the spot, without the original. If you have an electronic key that relies on a proximity sensor to open the door or turn on the engine, you'll need go to the dealer to purchase a new one.

You should have a plan in place for the event that you lose your keys. This will save you the hassle of paying for a tow-truck or locksmith. It's easy for you to forget your car keys when you're tired 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 won't vanish forever, and you have a backup plan for when they do.

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