How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the shuffle of sending children to school, running errands and working, things have a tendency to be lost. One of the most frequently lost items that disappears is our keys to our cars.
In the past, this was not an issue since you could easily replace it at your local hardware store or locksmith. Today, it's not as easy.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person to contact if you lose your key. The majority of car dealers keep a record of each key designed for their vehicles, making it easy for them to find your key. It's expensive to visit a dealership and therefore, you should shop around. You might be able get a cheaper option through an automotive locksmith.
In most cases, you will need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, like an original registration or title, in order to obtain an alternative key from the dealer. The dealership will order the replacement key and attach it to your vehicle. The dealer must complete this lengthy process.
A lot of cars today have keys that are specialized known as a smart key. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor inside the vehicle, allowing for keyless entry and start. They are typically used in conjunction with ignitions that are push-to-start. You can purchase a brand new smart key from a dealership, but the cost is very expensive. Local auto locksmiths can give you a smart key at a fraction of the cost.
You can also purchase a classic key replacement at your local hardware store. They can design a standard lock cylinder key. They will require the VIN and the model year. If you are unable to locate the VIN on your car, it will be stamped on a metal plaque that is placed on the dashboard or the driver's doorpost. Most locksmiths in the automotive industry will be able to offer an alternative car key, even if you don't have the original. In some cases the locksmith may need to disassemble the ignition and door locks in order to complete the task. This isn't a risky job for a professional, but it requires some mechanical knowledge and skill.
2. Call a Locksmith
The most common reason for roadside assistance is when you've lost your car keys. Keep a spare car key in your bag and store it safely. However even the most vigilant people can lose their car keys. You should look for the car key and notify your insurance company immediately if you discover it. This will decrease the chances of your claim being denied should your key be found stolen.
If you don't have a spare key, your next best option is to call a locksmith. Locksmiths are usually able to provide a replacement key at less than what the dealership will charge. They may also come to your location to make the key on the spot which is much more convenient than having your vehicle brought back to the dealer.
The cost of replacing your car keys can vary depending on the type you have. Keys with traditional designs that can be exchanged at most hardware stores for $10 each, are the most affordable. If lost key what to do is equipped with keys that can be used as a remote to lock and start the car, or a smart-key that can only by replaced at an auto dealer, the cost of these keys is typically more expensive than traditional keys.
A locksmith can replace the smart key or key fob in the majority of cases as long as they have the VIN number of your car. It is usually located on the metal plate on the driver's doorpost or on the windshield. They will need evidence of ownership, like your registration or title.
Some locksmiths are not licensed or insured, so make sure to research them before hiring. You can find reputable auto locksmiths on the internet or asking your family and friends for suggestions. Also, be aware that using keys you have not authorized to start your car could result in a breach of your vehicle's warranty. The use of a key that is not authentic could damage the lock of your vehicle. If you do not want to risk this is a good idea 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 worst things you can do when you lose your car key is to panic. 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. It could be helpful to look around in places that you don't normally look, such as pockets on your pants or coat, or in a bag you carry when running. After you've inspected all of these areas, it's a good idea call your insurance company.
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate through chips with the car. This communication lets the car recognize the key fob and open the doors, as well as start the engine. It's important that you report the loss of your keys immediately to stop unauthorized persons from utilizing your vehicle.
Some car insurance providers offer a policy add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost car key. Check with your insurance company to find out if this type of insurance is offered or if an individual locksmith can pay for the costs.
If your car is equipped with an ordinary mechanical key, you can typically replace it at a variety of hardware stores for a nominal cost. However, if your car is equipped with an electronic key fob that is connected to your car via the chip, you'll need go to the dealership to request a replacement. It can be costly however it's much cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.
Filing an insurance claim due to a car key that was stolen can increase your insurance premiums. This is because your insurance company will consider you high-risk driver for loosing your car key and could increase your premiums to offset the cost of settling an insurance claim. Fortunately, you can avoid the extra expenses by purchasing a tracking device to locate your car key that has been lost or letting a locksmith design the new key without cloning the original.
4. Contact towing truck
It's one of the most difficult things to lose your car keys and nobody wants to see it happen. If it does happen it could cost a lot to replace the key and get back on the road. It's why it's important to be prepared for when it happens, so that you don't have to call a tow truck, and keep your money in your wallet.
When you've lost your car keys, the first thing to do is retrace your steps. This can help you determine where they are and can help you calm your anxiety. Try to remember what you did right before losing your keys, for example, buying something at the grocery store or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you determine the place to start.
If you cannot find your keys, search in places you might have placed them, like the pockets of the clothing you were wearing, or in the bag you used to carry them to home. If you still can't find them, give yourself some time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.
Another option is to make use of the bluetooth key tracker app on your phone. These are small devices you can attach to a keyring, and an app on your phone will show you the whereabouts of your keys.
The cost of replacing lost car keys can vary depending on the type of key that you own. If you have a traditional key that is used for automotive, a locksmith can usually make a new one in a matter of minutes without the original, which will save you some money. If you have an electronic key that utilizes the proximity sensor to open the door or start the engine, you'll have to go to the dealership to purchase a new one.
It is essential to have a plan in place to deal with the loss of your car keys, so that you can save yourself the headache of having to pay for a tow truck or a locksmith. It's easy for you to forget your car keys when you're exhausted after a long day or when your attention is focused on other things. By following these tips you can make sure that your keys don't disappear forever, and have a back-up plan in the event that they do.