How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the rush of getting children to school, running errands, and working, things have a tendency to get lost. One of the most common things that get lost is the keys to our cars.
In the past you could easily replace this at your local locksmith or hardware store. Nowadays, that is not as easy.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
If you lose your car keys, the first place to contact is your local car dealer. The majority of dealers keep a record of each key they make for their cars, so they will be able to locate yours. It is expensive to go to a dealership, so you should look around. You might be able find a cheaper solution by using an auto locksmith.
In the majority of instances, you'll need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and evidence of ownership, like an original registration or title, to get an alternative key from the dealership. The dealership will then order the new key and then pair it with your vehicle. This can be a lengthy process, and you will need to wait for the dealer to finish the process.
Smart keys are a form of key that is utilized in a lot of automobiles today. These keys are designed to use proximity sensors to be activated within the car, which allows keyless entry and start. These keys are often paired with ignitions that require a push-to-start. You can purchase a new smart key at the dealership, but the cost is very expensive. A local auto locksmith can create an intelligent key for you for about half the cost of what you'd pay at the dealership.
You can also purchase an old-fashioned key replacement from your local hardware store. They can make you the standard lock cylinder keys. They will require the VIN and the year of manufacture. 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 doorpost. Most automotive locksmiths can provide you with an alternative car key even if you don't have the original. In some cases the locksmith may need to disassemble the door lock and ignition in order to complete the task. It's not a risky task, but it requires some knowledge of mechanics.
2. Contact an expert locksmith
The misplacing of your car keys is among of the most common reasons for roadside assistance and calls. It's essential to keep a spare key handy with you and ensure it's safe. However, even the most careful people may lose their car keys. It is important to thoroughly search for the keys and notify your insurance company as quickly as you can to minimize the chances of getting denied a claim if it happens to be stolen later.
If you don't have an extra key, your next best option is to contact the locksmith. Locksmiths are usually able to provide a key replacement at less than what a dealership would charge. They can also usually visit your location and create the key right there which is 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 with traditional designs, which can be replaced at most hardware stores for $10 each and are the cheapest. If your car is equipped with a key fob that can be used as a remote to unlock and start the car, or a smart-key that can only be replaced at an auto dealer, the cost of these keys is typically higher than the traditional one.
A locksmith can replace a smart key or key fob in the majority of cases as long as they have the VIN number of your vehicle. It is usually located on the metal plate on the driver's doorpost or on the windshield. They will require proof of ownership, like your registration or title.
Some locksmiths are not licensed or insured, so make sure to do your research prior to hiring. You can find reputable auto locksmiths by searching online or asking family members and friends for suggestions. Be aware that using unauthorized keys to start your car could result in a breach of the warranty on your vehicle. Using unauthorized keys may also cause damage to the lock of your vehicle. If you do not want to take this risk you should consider to call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith, and wait for your replacement key from the dealer.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
One of the worst things you can do when you lose your car keys is to panic. The first step is take an inhale and try to understand the situation. It is likely that you lost your keys because you misplaced them, instead of having them taken. The next step is retrace the steps you took and try to determine where your keys were. It could be helpful to look around in places that you would not normally check for items, like pockets on your pants or coat or in the bag you carry around when you run. After you've looked in these places, you should call your insurance provider.
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate through a chip with the car. This communication process allows the vehicle to recognize the key fob, unlock the doors and then start the engine. It's important that you inform the authorities of the loss of your key immediately to prevent anyone who is not authorized from using your vehicle.
Some insurance companies offer an extra benefit to their policy that covers the cost of a replacement car key. It is worth contacting your insurance provider to see whether they have this type of coverage or if they can locate an individual locksmith that will pay for the cost.
You can usually get a replacement for a mechanical key in most hardware stores for a fair price. If, however, your car has an electronic key fob that is linked to your vehicle via the chip, you'll have go to the dealership for the replacement. This can be expensive, but it's much more cost-effective than hiring a locksmith.
In addition to the cost of replacing your car keys, filing an insurance claim to replace a lost key could cause your car insurance rates to increase. The insurance company could raise your premiums due to the fact that they'll view you as a high-risk driver for losing your key. You can cut down on these additional costs by purchasing a tracking device that will track your lost key or hiring a professional locksmith to create an original key without copying the old key.
4. Call for a Tow Truck
It's the most gruelling thing to lose your car keys, and no one wants to experience this. If it happens it could cost a lot to replace keys and get back on the road. It's why it's important to be prepared for when it happens, so you won't need to call a tow truck and keep your money in your wallet.
Retrace your steps if you've lost your keys. This will help you locate them and calm your panic. You might recall doing something at the grocery store or dropping your keys on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you pinpoint your starting point.
If car lost key replacement are unable to locate your keys, search in places where you could have put them, like the pockets of the clothing you were wearing, or in the bag you used to transport them to home. If you're still unable to locate them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.
Another option is to use a bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are tiny devices that can be attached to your keyring and use an app for your phone to show you where your keys are so you don't need to look through every drawer or pocket within your home.
The cost to replace the car key that has been lost can differ depending on the type of key you own. If you have a conventional key an automotive locksmith will usually make a new one on the spot without the original, which will save you some money. If you have a smart key that uses a proximity detector to open the doors or start the engine of your car, you will need go to the dealer to purchase a new one.
It's important to have a plan in case you lose your car keys so that you will not have the hassle of having to pay for a tow truck or a locksmith. It's easy to forget your car keys when you're exhausted after a long work day or when your thoughts are focused busy with other things. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your keys won't disappear forever, and you'll have an alternative plan in case they do.