How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the hustle of sending kids to school, running errands, and working, things have a tendency to become lost. One of the most frequently lost items that disappears is our keys to our cars.
In the past you could easily replace this at your local locksmith or hardware store. However, nowadays, it isn't as easy.
1. Call Your Car Dealership
If you lose your car keys The first place you should call is your local car dealer. The majority of car dealers keep a log of every key made for their vehicles, therefore it should be simple for them to track down your key. The disadvantage is that going to the dealership can be costly so it's crucial to shop around. You might be able to find a cheaper option by using an auto locksmith.
In most instances, you'll have to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and evidence of ownership, such as an original registration or title, to get an alternative key from the dealer. The dealership will then request an additional key and connect it with your vehicle. This can be a lengthy process, and you will be waiting for the dealer to complete the process.
Smart keys are a form of key used in many cars today. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor inside the vehicle, which allows the use of a keyless entry system and even starting. They are usually used with ignitions that require a push-to start. You can purchase a new smart key at the dealership, but the price is very high. A local auto locksmith can make a smart key for you for a fraction of what you'd purchase from a dealership.
key car lost G28 Car Keys can also get a traditional key replacement at your local hardware store. They can create a standard lock cylinder key. They'll need to know the model year of your vehicle and also the VIN. If you are unable to locate the VIN on your car, it will be stamped on a metal plaque located on the dashboard or the driver's doorpost. Even if you do not have the original, most locksmiths in the automotive industry can offer a replacement car key. In some cases the locksmith might need to take apart the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. This isn't a risky job for a professional, however it will require some mechanical expertise and skills.
2. Contact a locksmith
Losing your car keys is one of the most frequent reasons for roadside assistance or callouts. It's essential to keep a spare key on your person and ensure that it's safe. Even the most careful people can lose their keys. It is essential to search thoroughly for the keys and inform your insurance company as soon as possible in order to decrease the chances of getting denied a claim if the key is found later stolen.
Contacting a locksmith is the best option if you don't own a spare. Locksmiths are usually able to provide a replacement key for less than what the dealership would charge. They can also visit your home to make the key right there which is easier than having your car brought back to the dealer.
The cost of replacing your car key will differ based on the kind of key you have. The most affordable keys are traditional keys that can be bought at most hardware stores. They are 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 car, or a smart-key that can only by replaced at an auto dealer, the cost of these keys will be more expensive than the standard one.
In most instances, an automotive locksmith can replace the key fob or smart key if they have the VIN number for your vehicle, which is typically found on a metal plate that is placed on the driver's side of the doorpost or stamped into the windshield of the vehicle. They will need proof of ownership, like your registration or title.
Always do your homework prior to hiring locksmith. You can locate reputable auto locksmiths by looking online or asking family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using keys you have not authorized to start the car can result in a breach of the warranty on your vehicle. Using unauthorized keys may also cause damage to the lock of your vehicle. If you do not wish to risk it you should call roadside help instead of a car locksmith 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. Take a deep breath, and then try to rationalize your situation. It is more likely that you lost your keys rather than they were stolen. So, the next step is to retrace your steps and figure out the location where they went missing. It might help to look in places you don't normally look, such as the pockets of your coat or pants or in the bag you carry 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 keys that communicate with your vehicle via chips. This allows the car to recognize the key fob and unlock the doors, and start the engine. It is essential to report the loss of your keys immediately to prevent anyone who is not authorized from using your vehicle.
Certain car insurance companies provide an insurance add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. Check with your insurance company to find out if this type of insurance is offered or if a locksmith can pay for the costs.
If your car uses the standard mechanical key, you can typically replace it at a variety of hardware stores for a nominal cost. If your car has an electronic key that is paired to your car via the chip, then you'll have to visit your dealer to purchase an alternative. This can be expensive but it's also more cost-effective than hiring a locksmith.
In addition to the cost of replacing your car key, filing an insurance claim for a stolen key can cause your insurance rates to rise. Your insurance company could increase your premiums because they'll consider you to be a high-risk driver because you lost your key. Fortunately, you can save yourself the cost of purchasing a tracking device to locate your car key that has been lost or having a locksmith create the new key without cloning the original.
4. Contact a Tow truck
It's the most frustrating thing to lose your car keys, and no one wants it to happen. If it does happen it could cost a lot to replace the key and get back on the road. That's why it's best to be prepared for when it happens, so that you can avoid having to call a tow truck, and keep your cash in your wallet.
If you've lost your car keys, the first step is to retrace your steps. This will help you locate them and ease your anxiety. Make a list of what you did right before losing your keys, for example, grabbing something at the supermarket or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you determine where you should start.
If you are unable to locate your keys, search in places you might have placed them, like the pockets of the clothing you were wearing, or in the bag that you used to transport them home. If you are unable to find them, take a moment to relax, and then call an locksmith or a tow truck.
A bluetooth key tracker can also be utilized on your phone. These are tiny devices that you can attach to your keyring and have an app on your phone that can reveal where your keys are, so you don't have to go through every drawer or pocket within your home.
The cost to replace the car key that has been lost can vary depending on what kind of key you have. You can save money when you use traditional car keys. An automotive locksmith will typically be capable of making a replacement on the spot, without the original. If you have a smart-key that uses proximity sensors to open the doors or turn on the engine of your vehicle, you will need go to the dealer to purchase a new one.
You must have a plan for when you lose your keys. This will spare you the hassle of having to pay for the tow-truck or locksmith. It's easy to forget your car keys when you're tired after a long work day or when your mind is busy with other things. By following these tips you can ensure that your keys don't disappear forever, and have a back-up plan in case they do.