How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the shuffle of taking kids to school, running errands, and working, things have a tendency to get lost. One of the most common items that disappears is our car keys.
In the past, this was not an issue since you could easily replace it at your local hardware store or locksmith. However, nowadays, it isn't as simple.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should call in case you lose your key. The majority of car dealers keep a log of every key designed for their vehicles, so it should be easy for them to locate your keys. The drawback is that going to the dealership can be costly so it's crucial to look around. You might be able to locate a lower cost option by using an auto locksmith.
In most instances, you'll have to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, such as a copy of the title or registration, to obtain a replacement key from the dealership. The dealership will then request a new key and pair it with your vehicle. This could be a long process, and you'll need to wait for the dealer to complete the process.
Smart keys are a type of key that is utilized in a lot of automobiles in the present. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor inside the vehicle, which allows for keyless entry and start. These keys are typically used with ignitions that require a push-to start. Dealers will offer you a smart key, however, it's expensive. Local auto locksmiths can make you a smart key at only a fraction of the cost.
You can also purchase an old-fashioned key replacement from a local hardware store. They can create a standard lock cylinder key. They will need to know the model year of your car, as well as the VIN. If you are unable to locate the VIN, it is usually stamped on a metal plaque found on the driver's doorpost or the dashboard. Most automotive locksmiths are able to offer the replacement for your car key, even if you don't have the original. However, in some cases they may have to take apart the ignition and door locks to do so. This is not a risky job for a professional, but it does require some mechanical skills and knowledge.
2. Contact a locksmith
Losing your car keys is among of the most frequent reasons for roadside assistance or callouts. It's important to keep a spare key handy with you and ensure it's somewhere safe. Even the most cautious of people could lose their keys. You should check for the car keys and inform your insurance company immediately if you find it. lost car keys will reduce the likelihood of your claim being rejected later if your key is found stolen.
Calling a locksmith is the best option in the event that you don't have an extra key. Locksmiths can usually provide a replacement key for less than what the dealership would cost. They can also visit your home to make the key right there which is much more convenient than having your car brought back to the dealer.
The type of car key that you have could affect the cost to replace it. Keys that are traditional are able to be replaced at most hardware stores for $10 each, are the most affordable. If your car has a key fob, which acts as a remote that allows you to open and start the engine, or a smart key, that can only be replaced by an auto dealer and will typically cost more than a traditional key.
A locksmith can replace a smart key or key fob in most cases so long as they have the VIN number of your car. This is usually found on the metal plate on the driver's doorpost or on the windshield. They will also require proof that you own the car and have the registration or title.
Some locksmiths aren't licensed or insured, so make sure to do your research prior to hiring them. You can find reputable auto locksmiths by searching on the internet, or asking family and friends for suggestions. Be aware that using keys that are not yours to start your car could result in a breach of the warranty on your vehicle. A key that is not authorized could cause damage to the lock on your car. If you don't want to risk it 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
One of the most dangerous things you can do when you lose your car key is to panic. Take a deep breath and then try to reason your situation. Chances are that you lost your keys due to you misplaced them, instead of having them taken. The next step is retrace the steps you followed and try to locate the place where your keys were. It may help to look in places you don't normally look, such as pockets in your pants or coat, or in the bag you carry around for running. After you've inspected all these places it's a good idea contact your insurance company.
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate via an electronic chip with the car. This communication allows the vehicle recognize the key fob and open the doors, as well as start the engine. If you lose your key, it's important to report it immediately to ensure that people who are not authorized don't get into your car and use it.
Some car insurance providers offer an insurance add-on that covers the cost of replacing a lost car key. It's worth checking with 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 get it replaced at most hardware stores at a cost of a small amount. If your car has an electronic key that is connected to your car via the chip, then you'll have to visit the dealership to obtain an replacement. It can be costly, but it is much cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.
In addition to the cost of replacing your car keys and filing an insurance claim for the loss of a key can cause your car insurance rates to increase. This is because the insurance company will consider you to be an extremely risky driver for the loss of your car key, and may raise your premiums to cover the cost of settling the claim. Fortunately, you can often avoid the extra expenses by buying a tracking device that can locate your car key that has been lost or having a locksmith make the new key without cloning the original.
4. Call towing truck
It's the most frustrating thing to lose your car keys and nobody would want to experience this. If it does happen, it can be expensive to replace the key and get back on the road. This is why it's important to be prepared for when it does, so you don't have to call a tow truck, and keep your cash in your wallet.
When you've lost your car keys, the first thing to do is trace your steps. This will help you find the keys and calm your panic. Try to remember what you did prior to losing your keys, for example, buying something at the grocery store or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you pinpoint your starting point.
If you're unable to locate your keys, search for places where they might be like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing or the bag you put them in when you came home. If you can't locate them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.
Another alternative is to utilize an bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are small devices that can be connected to your keyring, and also have an app installed on your phone that will reveal where your keys are, so you don't have to go through every drawer or pocket in your house.
The cost of replacing a lost car key may vary according to the type of key you have. If you have a traditional key an automotive locksmith will typically make a new one in a matter of minutes without the original one, which will save you some money. If you are using a smart-key that utilizes proximity sensors to open the doors or start your car's engine it is necessary go to the dealer to purchase a new one.
