20 Resources That Will Make You More Efficient At Replace Lost Car Key
How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the shuffle of getting kids to school, running errands, and working, things have a tendency to become lost. Car keys are one of the most commonly lost items.
In the past, this was not an issue since you could easily replace it at your local hardware store or locksmith. This isn't the case anymore.
1. Call Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person to contact if you lose your key. Most car dealers keep a log of every key that is made for their vehicles therefore it should be simple for them to locate your key. It's expensive to visit a dealer and you should shop around. You may be able locate a lower cost option by using an auto locksmith.
In most cases, you will need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, such as an original registration or title, in order to get an alternative key from the dealership. The dealership will then request the new key and then pair it with your vehicle. This could be a long process, and you will be waiting for the dealer to complete the job.
Smart keys are a kind of key used in a variety of cars today. They are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, which allows for keyless entry and start. These keys are typically used with ignitions that require a push-to-start. You can purchase a brand new smart key from the dealership, but the price is quite expensive. A local auto locksmith can design an intelligent key for you at a fraction of what you'd purchase from a dealership.
You can also purchase an old-fashioned key replacement from your local hardware store. They will be able to make you an ordinary key that will fit your vehicle's lock cylinder. They will need the VIN and the model year. If you cannot locate the VIN on your car it will be stamped on a metal plaque located on the dashboard or driver's doorpost. Most locksmiths in the automotive industry can offer a car key replacement even if you don't have the original. However, in certain instances they may have to take apart the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. It's not a risky job, but it requires some mechanical knowledge.
2. Contact a locksmith
The most frequent reason for requesting roadside assistance is because you've lost your car keys. Keep a spare car key with you and store it safely. However even the most vigilant people can lose their car keys. It is important to look for the car key and inform your insurance company immediately if you discover it. This will lower the likelihood of your claim being rejected later should your key be found stolen.
A locksmith's call is the next best thing in the event that you don't have a spare. Locksmiths can usually provide a key replacement at less than what a dealership would cost. They can also visit your location to make the key on the spot which is easier than having your vehicle brought back to the dealer.
The cost of replacing your car key will differ based on the type you own. The most affordable keys are the standard keys that can be bought at the majority of hardware stores. They are about $10 per key. If your car comes with a key fob that can be used as a remote to unlock and start the vehicle or a smart-key that can only by replaced at a dealership, the cost of these keys will be more expensive than traditional keys.
In the majority of cases, an automotive locksmith can replace a key fob or smart key as long as they have the VIN number for your car that is usually found on a metal plate that is placed on the driver's side of the doorpost or etched into the windshield of your vehicle. They will require evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
Always do your research before hiring locksmith. You can find reputable auto locksmiths by searching on the internet, or asking family and friends for suggestions. Be aware that using unauthorized keys to start your car could lead to the breach of the warranty on your vehicle. The use of keys that are not authorized could cause damage to your car's lock. If you do not want to take this risk then contact roadside assistance instead of a car locksmith and wait until the dealer delivers a new key.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Panic is one of the most unpleasant reactions you could have when you lose your key. Take a deep breath and then try to rationalize your situation. It is more likely you lost your keys than they were stolen. The next step is retrace the steps you took and attempt to find out the location where your keys were. You may want to look in places that you wouldn't normally look at, like the pockets of your pants, bag or coat you carry for running. After lost keys to my car looked in these places, you should call your insurance provider.
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that connect to your car through chip. This communication allows the vehicle recognize the key fob and open the doors, and also start the engine. It is essential to immediately report the loss of your keys immediately to prevent anyone who is not authorized from using your vehicle.
Certain insurance companies provide an additional benefit to their policies that covers the cost of replacing a car key. Contact your insurance provider to see if this type of coverage is offered or if a locksmith can pay for the costs.
It is possible to replace the mechanical key at most hardware stores for a reasonable price. If your car uses an electronic key that connects to your car via the chip, you will need to visit your dealership to purchase a replacement. It's expensive however it's much cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.
In addition to the expense of replacing your car key and submitting an insurance claim for the loss of a key can cause your insurance rates to rise. The insurance company could increase your premiums as they will consider you a high-risk driver for losing your key. Fortunately, you can avoid the extra expenses by purchasing a device to track your lost car keys or having a locksmith make a new key without cloning the original.
4. Contact a Tow truck
No one wants to lose their car keys. It is the worst scenario that could happen. But if it does it can be expensive to replace the key that was lost and get back on the road. It is important to be prepared so that you don't have call a tow-truck and can keep your money.
When you've lost your car keys, the first thing to do is trace your steps. This will aid in determining where they are and help calm your panic. Try to recall what you did right before losing your keys, like picking up something from the grocery store or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you find your place of origin.
If you can't locate your keys, search in places you might have put them, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or the bag you used to transport them home. If you're unable to locate them, take a moment to relax and then call a locksmith or a tow truck.
A bluetooth key tracker can also be used on your phone. These are small devices you can attach to a keyring and an app for your smartphone will show you the whereabouts of your keys.
The cost of replacing lost car key may vary according to the type of key that you have. It is cheaper if you have traditional car keys. A locksmith for automotive will typically be capable of making a replacement on the spot, without the original. If you are using a smart-key that utilizes proximity sensors to open doors or start the engine of your car it is necessary to visit a dealership to purchase a new one.
It is important to have a plan for when you lose your keys. This will save you the expense of an tow-truck or locksmith. It's easy to lose your car keys when you're exhausted after a long day or when your attention is focused distracted by other things. However, by following these steps to ensure your keys don't disappear forever and have a backup plan for the event that they do.