How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the shuffle of getting kids to school, running errands, and working things tend to get lost. One of the most frequently lost items that go missing is our car keys.
In the past, you could easily replace this at your local locksmith or hardware store. However, nowadays, it isn't as simple.
1. Call Your Car Dealership
If you lose your car key, the first place to contact is your car dealer. The majority of car dealers keep records of each key they make for their vehicles, so they will be able to locate your key. It can be costly to go to a dealership, so you should look around. You may be able get a lower price through an automotive locksmith.
In most instances, you'll need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, like a copy of your registration or title, in order to obtain an alternative key from the dealership. The dealership will then request an additional key and connect it with your vehicle. This can be a lengthy process, and you'll be waiting for the dealer to complete the process.
A lot of cars today are equipped with a special type of key called a smart key. They are designed to work with proximity sensors to be activated inside the car, allowing keyless entry and starting. These keys are typically used with ignitions that require a push-to-start. You can purchase a new smart key at the dealership, but the cost is quite expensive. Local auto locksmiths can give you a smart key for only a fraction of the cost.
You can also get a replacement for the key you have always had at the local hardware store. They can create a standard key that fits your vehicle's lock cylinder. They will need the VIN and the model year. If you are unable to locate the VIN, it is usually stamped on a metal plate that is located on the driver's side doorpost or the dashboard. Even if you do not have the original, many locksmiths in the automotive industry will be able to provide you with an alternative car key. In certain instances the locksmith might need to take apart the ignition and door locks in order to complete the task. It's not a risky task, but it requires some knowledge of mechanics.
2. Contact a Locksmith
The misplacing of keys to your car is one of the most frequent reasons for roadside assistance or callouts. Keep an extra car key with you and store it safely. However, even the most careful people can lose their car keys. It is important to thoroughly search for the key and notify your insurance company as soon as possible to reduce the chances of getting denied a claim in the event that it is found later stolen.
Calling a locksmith is the best option in the event that you don't have an extra. Locksmiths usually can provide a key replacement for less than what a dealership would cost. They can also visit your location to create keys right there which is much more convenient than having your vehicle taken back to the dealer.
The cost of replacing your car key will differ based on the model you own. The most affordable keys are traditional keys that can be purchased at many hardware stores. They cost about $10 per key. If your car is equipped with a key fob, which acts like a remote and allows you to open and start the engine or a smart key that can only be replaced by an auto dealer the keys will typically cost more than the traditional key.
A locksmith can replace keys that are smart or fob in the majority of cases as long they have the VIN number for your vehicle. It is usually located on the metal plaque on the driver's doorpost or stamped on the windshield. They will also require proof that you own the car, such as the registration or title.
You should always conduct your research prior to hiring locksmith. You can find reputable auto locksmiths through online search engines or asking family members and friends for suggestions. Also, be aware that using unauthorized keys to start your car could result in a breach of the warranty on your vehicle. The use of keys that are not authorized could cause damage to the lock of your vehicle. If you do not want to take this risk then contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith for cars and wait until the dealer sends out a replacement key.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
One of the worst things you can do when you lose your car key is to panic. The first thing you should do is take your breath and try to rationalize the situation. It is more likely you lost your keys rather than they were stolen. The next step is to trace your steps and try to find out where they were lost. It may help to look in places you don't normally look for items, like pockets in your coat or pants or in a bag you carry around when running. After you've looked through all of these areas, it's a good idea to contact your insurance company.
Most modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs which communicate with your car through chips. This communication allows the vehicle recognize the key fob and unlock the doors, and start the engine. If you lose your key, it's important to report this immediately to ensure that people who are not authorized can't enter your car and use it.
Certain car insurance companies offer an insurance add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. It is worth contacting your insurance provider to see if they offer this type of insurance or if they can locate an individual locksmith that will pay for the cost.
It is possible to replace a mechanical key in most hardware stores for a reasonable price. However, if your car is equipped with an electronic key fob that's linked to your vehicle via the chip, you'll need to go to your dealership to get a replacement. This can be expensive but it's also more cost-effective than hiring a locksmith.
In addition to the expense of replacing your car keys and submitting an insurance claim for a stolen key can cause your insurance rates to rise. Your insurance company could raise your premiums due to the fact that they'll view you as an extremely risky driver for losing your key. Fortunately, you can often save yourself the cost of purchasing a tracking device to locate your car key that has been lost or having a locksmith make an entirely new key without copying the original.
4. Call a Tow truck
Nobody wants to lose their car keys. It is the worst scenario that could happen. However, if it does happen it can be expensive to replace the key that was lost and get you back on the road. This is why it's important to be prepared in case it happens, so that you don't have to call a tow truck and keep your money in your wallet.
Find your way back in case you've lost your keys. This will allow you to locate the keys and calm your panic. You may remember doing something at the grocery store, or dropping your keys on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you to find your starting point.
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 after you returned home. If you still can't find them, give yourself some time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.
lost keys for car no spare can also be utilized on your phone. These are small devices you can connect to a keyring and an app on your phone will display the location of your keys.
The cost of replacing lost car keys can vary dependent on the type of key you own. It is cheaper if you have an old-fashioned car key. A locksmith for automotive will usually be able to make a replacement on the spot, but without the original. If you have a smart key that uses a proximity sensor to open the door or start the engine, you'll have go to the dealer to get a replacement.
You should have a plan in case you lose your keys. This will help you avoid the hassle of having to pay for an tow-truck or locksmith. If you're exhausted or distracted, it's easy to lose your car keys. If you follow these suggestions to ensure that your keys won't vanish forever and have a backup plan in case when they do.
