How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Things can get lost in the hustle of getting children to and from school, running errands and working. Car keys are among of the most commonly lost items.

In the past you could easily change this at your local locksmith or hardware store. However, this isn't the situation anymore.

1. Contact Your Car Dealership

Your car dealer is the first person to contact should you lose your keys. The majority of car dealers keep a log of every key made for their vehicles, making it easy for them to find yours. The disadvantage is that going to the dealership can be expensive and it's essential to shop around. You may be able to locate a lower cost solution by using an auto locksmith.

It is likely that you will need to provide the dealership with your vehicle identification number or VIN, along with evidence of ownership (such as a copy registration or title) to get an alternative key. The dealership will then order an additional key and connect it with your vehicle. This could be a long process, and you'll need to wait until the dealer has completed the task.

Many vehicles today come with a special type of key known as a smart keys. These keys are designed for a proximity sensor to be activated inside the car, which allows keyless entry and start. They are typically used in conjunction with ignitions that are push-to-start. You can purchase a brand new smart key at the dealership, but the cost is very high. Local auto locksmiths can create you a smart key at a fraction of the cost.

You can also replace your key with a new one at the local hardware store. They can design an ordinary lock cylinder key. They will need to know the year of manufacture of your car and also the VIN. If you can't locate the VIN it's typically stamped on a metal plate found on the driver's doorpost or dashboard. Even if you do not have the original, most locksmiths in the automotive industry can provide you with an alternative car key. In certain instances the locksmith may need to remove the door lock and ignition in order to do this. This is not a hazardous job, but it does require some knowledge of mechanics.

2. Call a Locksmith

The misplacing of keys to your car is one of the most frequent reasons for roadside assistance and callouts. Keep a spare car key in your bag and store it safely. However, even the most careful people can lose their car keys. It's important to check thoroughly for the key and to inform your insurance company as quickly as possible to reduce your chances of being denied a claim in the event that it is found later stolen.

Calling a locksmith is the next best thing when you don't have an extra. Locksmiths are usually able to provide a key replacement at less than what a dealership would charge. They can also visit your location to create the key on the spot which is easier than having your vehicle brought back to the dealer.

The type of car key that you have could affect the cost of replacing it. Keys that are traditional that can be exchanged at most hardware stores for $10 each and are the cheapest. If your car has the key fob, which acts as a remote that can be used to unlock and start the engine, or a smart key, which can only be changed by a dealership and will typically cost more than a traditional key.

A locksmith can replace the smart key or key fob in most cases so long they have the VIN number of your vehicle. This number is typically found on the metal plaque on the driver's doorpost or stamped on the windshield. They will also need evidence that you own the car, such as a copy of your registration or title.

Always do your homework prior to hiring a locksmith. You can locate reputable auto locksmiths on the internet or asking friends and family for suggestions. Also, be aware that using keys you have not authorized to start your car could lead to the breach of your vehicle's warranty. The use of a key that is not authentic could cause damage to the lock of your car. If you do not want to risk this you should consider to call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith, and wait for a 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 think about your situation. It is more likely you lost your keys than they were stolen. The next step is to retrace the steps you followed and try to find out the place where your keys were. It could be helpful to look around in places that you would not normally check for items, like pockets in your pants or coat, or in the bag you carry around when you run. After you've checked these places you must contact your insurance company.

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate with your car through a chip. This communication allows the vehicle recognize the key fob and open the doors, and start the engine. If you lose your key it is important to notify the police immediately to ensure that anyone who isn't authorized don't get into your car and use it.

Certain car insurance companies offer an add-on to their policies that will cover the cost of replacing a lost car key what to do car key. Check with your insurance company to find out if this type of coverage is available or if an individual locksmith can pay for the costs.

It is possible to replace a mechanical key in many hardware stores for a reasonable cost. If, however, your car is equipped with an electronic key fob that's connected to your car via the chip, you'll have to visit your dealer for an upgrade. It can be costly however it's much cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.

In addition to the expense of replacing your car key, filing an insurance claim for a stolen key can cause your car insurance rates to increase. This is because your insurance provider will consider you to be a high-risk driver for losing your car keys and could increase your premiums to cover the cost of settling an insurance claim. You can cut down on these additional costs by purchasing a tracking device that will track your lost key or hiring a professional locksmith to design keys without copying the old key.

4. Call a Tow Truck

It's the most frustrating thing to lose your car keys and no one wants to experience this. If it does happen it could be costly to replace the lost key 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 an tow truck and keep your money in your wallet.

When you've lost your car keys, the very first step is to retrace your steps. This can aid in determining where they are and can help you calm your anxiety. You might recall doing something at the grocery store or putting your keys on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you determine your starting point.

If you are unable to locate your keys, How to Replace Lost Car Keys check places where they might be, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing or the bag you put them in when you got home. If you are unable to locate them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.

A key tracker bluetooth can also be utilized on your phone. These are tiny devices can be attached to your keyring, and also have an app for your phone to reveal where your keys are so you don't need to go through every drawer or pocket within your home.

The cost of replacing a lost car keys can vary according to the type of key that you have. If you have a conventional key that is used for automotive, a locksmith can generally make a new key on the spot without the original, which will save you some money. But if you have an electronic key that relies on a proximity sensor to open the door or start the engine, you'll have to visit the dealer to get a replacement.

You should have a plan in case you lose your keys. This will save you the hassle of having to pay for an tow-truck or locksmith. If you're exhausted or distracted, it's not difficult to lose your keys to your car. By following these tips you can ensure that your keys won't disappear forever, and you'll have an alternative plan in the event that they happen to disappear.