How to Replace Lost Car Keys

In the rush of getting kids to school, running errands, and working it is common for things to become lost. One of the most frequently lost things that get lost is our keys to our car.

In the past, this wasn't an issue since you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. Today, it's not as easy.

1. Call Your Car Dealership

Your car dealer is the first person you should contact if you lose your key. The majority of car dealers have a record for each key they make for their vehicles, which means they will be able to locate yours. It's expensive to go to a dealership, so you should research. You may be able get a lower price by using an auto locksmith.

You'll likely have to provide the dealership with your vehicle identification number, or VIN, as well as proof of ownership (such as a copy of your registration or title) to get a replacement key. The dealership will then order a replacement key and pair it with your vehicle. This can be a lengthy process, and you will be waiting until the dealer has completed the process.

Smart keys are a type of key used in many cars today. They are designed to work with proximity sensors to be activated inside the car, which allows keyless entry and start. They are usually used with ignitions that have a push-to-start feature. You can buy a new smart key from the dealership, but the cost is a bit expensive. A local auto locksmith can make an intelligent key for you for a fraction of what you'd purchase from a dealership.

You can also get an old-fashioned key replacement from your local hardware store. They can design a standard lock cylinder key. They will need to know the model year of your car and also the VIN. If you can't locate the VIN it's usually stamped on a metal plate located on the driver's side doorpost or dashboard. Even if you do not have the original key, most locksmiths in the automotive industry can offer an alternate car key. In some instances the locksmith may need to remove the ignition and door locks in order to do this. This is not a hazardous task, but it requires some mechanical knowledge.

2. Call a Locksmith

Misplacing your car keys is one of the most frequent reasons for roadside assistance or callouts. It's essential to keep a spare key on you and ensure you keep it in a safe place. However, even the most careful people can lose their car keys. It is essential to search thoroughly for the key and to notify your insurance company as soon as possible to reduce the chance of being denied a claim if the key is found later stolen.

A locksmith's call is the best option if you don't own a spare. Locksmiths are usually able to provide a replacement key at less than the dealership will cost. They can also visit your location to create keys right there which is much more convenient than having your vehicle brought back to the dealer.

The type of car key that you are using can impact the cost to replace it. The most affordable keys are the traditional keys that can be bought at the majority of hardware stores. They are priced at around $10 per key. If your car has the key fob, which acts like a remote and can unlock and start the engine or a smart-key, which can only be changed by dealers, these keys will usually cost more than a traditional key.

A locksmith can replace the smart key or key fob in most cases as long they have the VIN number of your car. It is usually located on the metal plate on the driver's doorpost or stamped on the windshield. They will also require proof that you own the car and have an original registration or title.

It is essential to do your research before hiring a locksmith. You can find qualified auto locksmiths on the internet or asking your family and friends for suggestions. Be aware that using keys you have not authorized to start the car can cause a violation of your vehicle's warranty. The use of keys that are not authorized could damage your car's lock. If you don't want to risk it then call roadside assistance instead of a car locksmith and wait until your dealer delivers a new key.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

Panic is among the most negative reactions you can experience when you lose your keys. Relax, and then try to think about your situation. It is more likely that you lost your keys than they were stolen. So, the next step is to trace your steps and attempt to find out where they disappeared. You might want to check places that you wouldn't normally look at like the pockets of your pants, or a coat or a bag that you use to run in. After you've looked through all these places it's a good idea contact your insurance company.

Modern cars are fitted with electronic key fobs which communicate with your car via a chip. This allows the car to recognize the key fob and open the doors, and also start the engine. It is essential to immediately report the loss of your key immediately to stop unauthorized persons from using your vehicle.

Some insurance companies offer an extra benefit to their policy that covers the cost of a replacement key for your car. Check with your insurance company to determine if this kind of coverage is available 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 most hardware stores for a small fee. If your car uses an electronic key that is paired to your vehicle via the chip, then you'll have to visit the dealership to purchase an replacement. This can be expensive but it's also cheaper than hiring a locksmith.

In addition to the cost of replacing your car keys and 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 in the event of losing your key. You can reduce these costs by purchasing a tracking device that will track your lost car key no spare keys or hiring a professional locksmith to create keys without copying the original key.

4. Contact a Tow truck

Nobody wants to lose their car keys. It's the most embarrassing scenario that could happen. If it does happen it could cost a lot to replace the key and get back on the road. It's essential to be prepared so that you don't have to call a tow truck and keep your money.

If you've lost your car keys, the first thing to do is trace your steps. This will help you determine where they are and can help you calm your anxiety. You might recall doing something in the supermarket or dropping your keys on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you determine your place of origin.

If you cannot find your keys, search in places you might have placed them, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or in the bag that you used to carry them to home. If you're still not able to locate 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 attach to a keyring and an app on your smartphone will display the location of your keys.

The cost of replacing a lost car keys can vary depending on the type of key you have. You can save money when you use an old-fashioned car key. An automotive locksmith is usually capable of making a replacement on the spot, but without the original. However, if you own a smart key that uses the proximity sensor to open the door or turn on the engine, you'll have to go to the dealership to get a replacement.

It is essential to have a plan in place for when you lose your car keys so that you will not have the hassle of having to pay for an tow truck or locksmith. When you're stressed or distracted, it's easy to lose your keys to your car. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your keys won't disappear forever, and have backup plans in case they happen to disappear.