How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Things tend to get lost in the hustle of getting kids to and from school, running errands and working. One of the most common things that get lost is the keys to our cars.
In the past, you could easily replace this at the local locksmith or hardware store. Today, it's not as simple.
1. Call Your Car Dealership
If you lose your car key The first place to contact is your dealer. Most car dealers keep a log of every key designed for their vehicles, so it should be easy for them to track down your key. It's expensive to visit a dealership, so you should research. You might be able locate a lower cost solution through an auto locksmith.
In most instances, you'll have to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, like a copy of your registration or title, to get a replacement key from the dealership. The dealership will order a replacement key and pair it to your vehicle. This can be a lengthy procedure, and you'll be waiting for the dealer to complete the process.
Smart keys are a form of key used in many cars in the present. These keys are designed to use a proximity sensor to be activated inside the car, allowing keyless entry and starting. They are typically used in conjunction with ignitions that are push-to-start. Dealers will offer you a smart key, but it's costly. A local auto locksmith can make a smart key for you for a fraction of what you'd buy from the dealership.
You can also purchase a replacement for your classic key at your local hardware store. They can make you an ordinary lock cylinder key. They will need the VIN and the model year. If you can't locate the VIN, it is usually stamped on a metal plaque that is located on the driver's side doorpost or dashboard. The majority of locksmiths for automotive will be able to provide you with an alternative car key, even if you don't have the original. In some instances they may have to disassemble the door and ignition to do so. This is not a risky job for a professional, but it requires some mechanical skills and knowledge.
2. Contact a locksmith
The most frequent reason for roadside assistance is that you have lost your car keys. Keep a spare car key in your bag and store it in a safe place. However even the most vigilant people may lose their car keys. You should look for the car keys and notify your insurance company immediately if you discover it. This will reduce the likelihood of your claim being denied later should your key be found stolen.
If you don't have a spare key, the next best option is to contact a locksmith. Locksmiths usually can provide a key replacement at less than what a dealership would cost. They may also come to your location to create the key on the spot, which is more convenient than having your vehicle brought back to the dealer.
The cost of replacing your car key can vary depending on the model you have. The most affordable keys are the standard keys that can be purchased at most hardware stores. They are about $10 per key. If your car comes with an ignition key that can be used as a remote to lock and start the vehicle, or a smart-key that can only by replaced at a dealership, the price of these keys is usually more expensive than the standard one.
In the majority of cases, an automotive locksmith can replace keys fobs or a smart key as long as they can get the VIN number of your vehicle, which is typically found on a metal plate on your driver's side doorpost or in the windshield of the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership, like your registration or title.
Some locksmiths aren't licensed or insured, so be sure to research them before hiring. You can find qualified auto-locksmiths by searching online or asking family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using a fake key to start your car could lead to a breach of warranty. The use of a key that is not authentic could cause damage to the lock on 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 a replacement key from the dealer.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
One of the most dangerous things you can do when you lose your car key is to panic. g28carkeys is take a deep breath and try to think about the situation. It is more likely that you lost your keys rather than they were stolen. The next step is to go back through the steps you took and try to locate the location where your keys were. It could be helpful to check places you wouldn't usually check like the pockets of your pants or coat, or in the bag you carry when running. After you've looked in these places you must contact your insurance company.
Most modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate with your car through chips. This allows the car to recognize and open the doors and then start the engine. It is essential to report the loss of your key immediately to prevent anyone who is not authorized from utilizing your vehicle.
Certain car insurance companies offer a policy add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost car key. It's worth checking with your insurance company to find out whether they provide this kind of insurance or if they can locate an individual locksmith that can pay for the cost.
If your car has a standard mechanical key, you'll be able to get it replaced at most hardware stores at a cost of a small amount. However, if your car is equipped with an electronic key fob that's connected to your car via the chip, you'll need to go to your dealership to get an upgrade. It's expensive but it's cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.
In the event of filing an insurance claim due to a car key that was stolen can increase your insurance premiums. This is because the insurance company will view you as a high-risk driver for losing your car key and could increase your premiums to cover the cost of making an insurance claim. You can reduce these expenses by purchasing a tracking device that will track your lost keys or hiring a professional locksmith to design a key without cloning the old one.
4. Contact for a Tow Truck
Nobody wants to lose their car keys. It is the worst scenario that could occur. If it happens it could cost a lot to replace keys and get back on the road. This is why it's important to be prepared if it happens, so that you won't need to call a tow truck, and keep your cash in your wallet.
When you've lost your car keys, the very first thing to do is trace your steps. This will allow you to locate them and ease your anxiety. Try to remember what you did right before losing your keys, such as picking up something from the grocery store or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you pinpoint your starting point.
If you're unable to locate your keys, look around in which they could be, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing or the bag you put them in when you got home. If you can't locate them, take some time to relax and then call a locksmith or a tow truck.
A key tracker with bluetooth can be utilized on your phone. These are small devices you can attach to a keyring, and an app on your smartphone will display the location of your keys.
The cost of replacing lost car key can be a bit expensive according to the type of key you own. If you have a traditional key, an automotive locksmith can typically make a new one on the spot without the original one, which will save you some 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 is important to have a plan in case you lose your keys. This will spare you the hassle of having to pay for a tow-truck or locksmith. It's easy for you to forget your car keys when you're exhausted after a long day or when your thoughts are focused busy with other things. If you follow these steps, you can make sure that your keys don't disappear forever, and have a back-up plan in the event that they happen to disappear.