How to Replace Lost Car Keys
It's an absolute nightmare to lose car keys. Not long ago this was not a big problem, but it's now becoming more complicated as cars become technologically advanced.
Sometimes, keys are lost due to the fact that you've reached into your pocket to find something else and accidentally dropped them off somewhere. Having an extra key at home will help you avoid these situations.
1. Call a Locksmith
Losing your car keys can be a major inconvenience. However, there's no need to be in a panic. If you know what to do and who to contact to get your car keys replaced should just take a couple of steps.
One of the first things you have to do is try and retrace your steps. This may seem like an obvious step however it isn't easy to do when you're in a rush or are already worried about the loss of your car keys. Examine all pockets, bags and the area around your vehicle.
Call a locksmith if you are unable to locate your car keys. Locksmiths are usually able to create an entirely new key for your vehicle more quickly than a dealership. They can even do it for less than a dealership will charge.
Some dealers are able to create replacement keys, however they may not be able to do it immediately or at any point. They often have a very high volume of customers, so they may not be able accommodate your request right away. They may also not be able to create a exact copy of the existing key.
Another option is to purchase an online replacement for your car key. These keys can be found on Amazon and elsewhere for a much lower price than you would pay a dealer. However, they may not be able to cut and program keys that are specific to your car model.
Certain insurance policies also provide coverage for the cost of replacing a stolen or lost car key. Therefore, it's worth checking to see whether you have coverage that will cover the cost of obtaining an additional key for your vehicle. Be aware that you'll be required to provide proof of ownership and proof of identity to the individual or company who is responsible for the creation of the replacement key. This is legally required. If you're not able prove ownership, it can be very costly.
2. Contact the Dealership
In the past the possibility of misplacing or losing - your car keys was not an issue. It wasn't too expensive to buy new keys from the dealer. This is no longer the case, as cars are more advanced and keys are more expensive. If you lose your keys today it's not uncommon to pay several hundred dollars to have them replaced.
You need to act calmly in the event that you've lost your car keys. This will help you think clearly and make the best decision about how to solve the issue. It is also important to ensure that you have a backup set keys in your pocket or in the trunk of your car, in case you lose the original keys they won't cost you any money at all. It is also important to find out if the replacement key is covered by your warranty or car insurance, which can help you save cash in the event of a need.
The next step is to do thorough searches of your home, vehicle and your wallet or purse for keys that are missing. You could also retrace the steps you took, remembering the last time you had your keys and where you were when you lost them. This could help you determine the location they went to, which can be an enormous relief.
If you've completed an exhaustive search but can't locate your car keys, the next option is to contact your dealer. cool training are familiar with your vehicle and can give you a replacement key. They're usually busy and can't accommodate people who require a quick response. This can make the process frustrating.
If you can get in touch with your dealer, they will be able to create keys for you using the VIN number that is saved on their system. They can also modify your immobilizer system that is needed to start your vehicle. Locksmiths are a good option if you want a quick and reliable solution, without having to wait in the dealership.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Not too long ago the time when you lost your car keys was not an issue. You could get an locksmith to come to your location and duplicate your key for a reasonable fee. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced, keys are also becoming more expensive.
Depending on your vehicle type and year the replacement of a lost key can be a long process that can cost hundreds of dollars. It's always a good idea to keep an additional set of keys for your car on hand. This is particularly true when you live in an area that is prone to danger or a place with an extremely high rate of theft.
While it may feel like an unnecessary effort to call your insurance company, it will save you money in the long run. Talk to your agent to see whether you can obtain an alternative car key that is covered by your policy.
Another thing to think about is whether your insurance policy provides roadside assistance. If you have roadside assistance, someone could come to your aid. This is less stressful than dealing with a dealer or locksmith.
Make sure you thoroughly search your vehicle before you call your insurance company. If you think they're in your car, try looking in the trunk and under the seat. If you're at home, look in the pockets of the clothes you were wearing as well as in other places you might have a habit of placing them. You should also check the areas you may have put them, like your purse or desk.
Call your dealer to replace the keys after you've tried to find them. This isn't a problem, and it's cheaper than calling a locksmith or going to the insurance company.
While you're at the dealership, you might want to ask whether you can have a spare key made, especially if you don't have a key fob. Usually, your dealership can clone an extra key for you, without changing anything else inside your car. If you do this, make sure you keep the key in a secure and safe location so that you can locate it the next time you lose yours.
4. Contact the police
Notifying your car keys that you lost will help you locate them and keep you safe. If someone drives your vehicle on public streets or private property without permission, the individual could be penalized. If you report your keys lost prior to the person making off with your car, you'll know that there's a legal paper trail of when the car went missing and who reported it.
Losing car keys is a common problem but it doesn't need to be a disaster. You can obtain a replacement car key quickly and easily if contact the right people. You can even prevent any future key loss by following the suggestions given in this article.
Follow your steps. This will give you an idea of where your key could have been lost and can aid in remembering what you were doing at the time. If you were driving to work, then went to a restaurant to take a bite You may recall that keys were in your pocket as you left the vehicle. If you can't find your key, it might be in the bag you used to carry things around or on the table at which you sat down to eat.
Posting your lost key online is another good idea. This will increase the likelihood of finding the key by bringing it to a wider audience. cool training can also contact local businesses as well as other community bulletin boards.
It's crucial to write down the VIN of your vehicle before you begin searching for your keys. You'll require this information to replace your keys therefore it's essential to keep it safe. It's common to find the VIN on your driver's licence, but it may also appear on your insurance card or in the owner's manual for your vehicle.
Once you've exhausted all other options and have exhausted all other options, it's time to contact the police. They'll be capable of providing you with an interim replacement for your car and also file a report that will help if the keys are ever discovered.
