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 frequently lost items that disappears is the keys to our car.
In the past, you could easily replace this at your local locksmith or hardware store. This is not the case anymore.
1. Call Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person to contact in case you lose your key. Most dealers keep track of every key designed for their vehicles, making it easy for them to locate your keys. The downside is that visiting the dealership can be costly and it's essential to look around. You may be able to locate a lower cost solution by using an auto locksmith.
In most instances, you'll need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, such as an original title or registration, to get a replacement key from the dealer. The dealership will order an alternative key and connect it with your vehicle. The dealer will need to complete this lengthy procedure.
Many cars today come with keys that are specialized known as a smart key. These keys are designed for a proximity sensor that can be activated within the car, allowing keyless entry and start. They are usually used with ignitions that require a push-to-start. You can purchase a new smart key from the dealership, but the cost is a bit expensive. A local auto locksmith can create the smart key at a fraction of what you would buy from the dealership.
You can also purchase a traditional key replacement at your local hardware store. They will be able to make a standard key that is compatible with the lock cylinder of your vehicle. They will need to know the year of manufacture of your car, as well as the VIN. If you can't find the VIN on your car, it will be stamped on a metal plaque that is placed on the dashboard or driver's doorpost. The majority of locksmiths for automotive are able to provide you with the replacement for your car key even if they don't have the original. In some cases the locksmith might need to take apart the ignition and door locks in order to do this. This is not a hazardous job, but it requires some mechanical knowledge.
2. Contact a locksmith
The misplacing of your car keys is one of the most common causes for roadside assistance and callouts. It's essential to keep a spare key with you and make sure it's somewhere safe. Even the most careful of people can lose their keys. You should check for the car keys and notify your insurance company immediately if you find 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, the best option is to call the 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 car brought back to the dealer.
The type of car key you have could affect the cost to replace it. Keys that are traditional are able to be replaced at most hardware stores for about $10 each and are the cheapest. If your car has the key fob, which functions as a remote and can be used to unlock and start the engine, or a smart key which can only be changed by dealers, these keys will usually cost more than the standard key.
In most instances, an automotive locksmith will be able to replace a key fob or smart key if they can get the VIN number of your vehicle, which is typically found on a metal plate on your driver's side doorpost or etched into the windshield of your vehicle. They will require evidence of ownership, like your registration or title.
It is essential to conduct your research prior to hiring locksmith. You can find qualified auto-locksmiths by searching on the internet or asking family and friends for recommendations. Also, be aware that using unauthorized keys to start the car can cause a breach of the warranty on your vehicle. Unauthorized keys can cause damage to your car's lock. If you do not want to take this risk is a good idea to call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith, and wait for your replacement key from the dealer.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Panic is among the most unpleasant reactions you could experience 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 to trace your steps and try to find out where they went missing. It may help to look in places you wouldn't usually check like pockets in your coat or pants or in the bag you carry when running. After you've inspected these areas you must contact your insurance company.
Most modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate with your car through chips. This process of communication allows the vehicle to recognize and unlock the doors and start the engine. It is essential to immediately report the loss of your key immediately to prevent anyone who is not authorized from utilizing your vehicle.
Some insurance companies offer an add-on to their policy that will cover the cost of a replacement key for your car. It's worth talking to your insurance provider to see whether they have this type of insurance or if you can find an individual locksmith that can pay for the cost.
If your car is equipped with a standard mechanical key, you can typically have it replaced at a variety of hardware stores for a small fee. If your car uses an electronic key that is connected with your vehicle using the chip, then you will have to visit the dealership to get an alternative. It's expensive but it's cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.
In addition to the expense of replacing your car key, filing an insurance claim to replace a lost key could cause your car insurance rates to rise. This is because your insurance provider will consider you an extremely risky driver for the loss of your car key, and may raise your premiums to cover the cost of making an insurance claim. Fortunately, you can avoid the extra expenses by buying a tracking device that can locate your car key that has been lost or having a locksmith create the new key without cloning the original.
4. Contact for a Tow Truck
It's one of the most difficult things to lose your car keys, and nobody wants to experience this. If it does happen, it can be costly to replace the key that was lost and get you back on the road. It is important to be prepared in order that you don't have to call a tow-truck and save your money.
If you've lost your car keys, the very first thing to do is trace your steps. This will allow you to locate the keys and calm your panic. Try to remember what you did prior to losing your keys, like grabbing something at the supermarket or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you find your starting point.
If you can't locate your keys, look in places you might have placed them, such as the pockets of the clothing you were wearing, or the bag you carried them in to take them home. If you still can't find the keys, give yourself time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.
A bluetooth key tracker can also be utilized on your phone. These are small devices that can be connected to your keyring and have an app installed on your phone to let you know where your keys are, so you don't need to search every drawer or pocket within your home.
The cost to replace a lost car key can differ based on the type of key you have. If you have a traditional key that is used for automotive, a locksmith can generally make a new key in a matter of minutes without the original one, which can save you money. But if you have an electronic key that utilizes the proximity sensor to open the door or turn on the engine, you'll need go to the dealer to get a replacement.
You must have a plan in place for the event that you lose your keys. This will save you the hassle of paying 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 on other things. However, by following these steps to ensure that your keys won't vanish for ever and have a backup plan the event that they do.