How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the rush of getting kids to school, running errands, and working, things have a tendency to become lost. One of the most frequent items that disappears is our keys to our cars.
In the past you could easily replace this at the local locksmith or hardware store. Nowadays, that is not as easy.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should call in case you lose your key. Most dealers keep a record of each key designed for their vehicles, therefore it should be simple for them to locate your keys. The drawback is that going to the dealership can be costly and it's essential to look around. You may be able to locate a lower cost solution through an automotive locksmith.
You'll likely have to give the dealership your vehicle identification number, or VIN, and proof of ownership (such as a copy of your registration or title) to get the replacement key. The dealership will then request the new key and then pair it with your vehicle. The dealer will have to complete this lengthy procedure.
Smart keys are a kind of key used in a variety of cars in the present. These keys are designed to use a proximity sensor that can be activated inside the car, allowing keyless entry and starting. They are usually used with push-to-start ignitions. The dealer can sell 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 purchase a replacement for your key with a new one at your local hardware store. They can make a standard key that fits the lock cylinder in your car. They'll need the year of manufacture of your vehicle, as well as the VIN. If you can't locate the VIN, it is usually printed on a metal plate located on the driver's side doorpost or dashboard. Even if you don't have the original, many locksmiths for automotive can offer an alternate car key. In some instances the locksmith might need to disassemble the door lock and ignition in order to do this. This is not a hazardous job, but it requires some knowledge of mechanics.
2. Call an expert locksmith
The most frequent reason for roadside assistance is that you have lost your car keys. It is essential to keep a spare key handy with you and ensure it's somewhere safe. Even the most careful of people can lose their keys. You should check for the car key and inform your insurance company immediately if you discover it. This will reduce the chances of your claim being rejected later if your key is found stolen.
If you don't have a spare key, the next best option is to contact an locksmith. Locksmiths usually can provide a key replacement at less than what a dealership would charge. They will usually come out to 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 of replacing it. The most affordable keys are traditional keys that are available at many hardware stores. They cost about $10 per key. If your car is equipped with an ignition key 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 an auto dealer, the cost of these keys will be more expensive than traditional keys.
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. This is usually found on the metal plaque on the driver's doorpost, or on the windshield. They will also require proof that you own the car, such as a copy of your registration or title.
Some locksmiths aren't licensed or insured, so make sure to investigate them prior to hiring. You can find reputable auto locksmiths by searching online or asking family and friends for suggestions. Be aware that using an unlicensed key to start your vehicle could cause a breach of warranty. Using unauthorized key may also cause damage to the lock of your car. 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 could do when you lose your car key is to panic. The first thing to do is to take your breath and try to think about the situation. It is likely that you lost your keys because you misplaced them rather than having them taken. The next step is to trace your steps and attempt to determine where they disappeared. You may want to look in places you don't normally check such as the pockets of your pants or bag or coat that you use to run in. After you've looked through all of these areas, it's a good idea to contact your insurance company.
Modern cars are fitted with electronic key fobs that communicate with your vehicle via chip. This communication allows the vehicle recognize the key fob, and then open the doors, and start the engine. If you lose your key it is important to notify the police immediately to ensure that anyone who isn't authorized can't enter your car and use it.
Certain car insurance companies provide an insurance add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost car key. Check with your insurance company to determine if this kind of coverage is offered or if a locksmith can cover the cost.
If your car is equipped with a standard mechanical key, you can get it replaced at any hardware store for a small fee. However, if your vehicle has an electronic key fob that's connected to your car via the chip, you'll have to go to your dealership to get a replacement. lost key of car can be costly, but it's much cheaper than hiring locksmith.
In addition to the expense of replacing your car keys, filing an insurance claim for a stolen key can cause your insurance rates to increase. The insurance company could raise your premiums due to the fact that they'll consider you to be an extremely risky driver for losing your key. You can cut down on these additional costs by purchasing a tracking device that will track your lost keys or hiring a professional locksmith to design an original key without copying the original key.
4. Contact a Tow truck
Nobody wants to lose their car keys. It's the worst thing that could occur. If it happens, it can be expensive to replace the key and get back on the road. It's why it's important to be prepared in case it happens, so you don't have to call an tow truck and keep your cash in your wallet.
When you've lost your car keys, the first thing to do is trace your steps. This can aid in determining where they are, and aid in calming your panic. You might remember doing something in the supermarket or putting your keys on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you find the place to start.
If you can't find 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're unable to locate them, take some time to relax and then call an 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 also have an app for your phone that will reveal where your keys are, so you don't have to search every pocket or drawer within your home.
The cost of replacing a lost car key may vary depending on the type of key you own. If you own a traditional key, an automotive locksmith can usually make a new one immediately without the original, which can save you money. If you are using a smart-key that utilizes a proximity detector to open the doors or turn on the engine of your vehicle 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 help you avoid the hassle of paying for an tow-truck or locksmith. It's easy for you to forget your car keys when you're tired after a long work day or when your mind is busy with other things. If you follow these suggestions, you can make sure that your keys won't vanish for ever and have a backup plan in case when they do.