How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Things tend to get lost in the hustle of getting kids to and from school, running errands and working. Car keys are one of the most commonly lost items.

In the past, you could easily replace this at your local hardware or locksmith store. Nowadays, that is not as easy.

1. Contact Your Car Dealership

If you've lost your car keys, the first place to contact is your car dealer. Most dealers keep a record of each key designed for their vehicles, so it should be easy for them to track down yours. It is expensive to visit a dealership and therefore, you should look around. You might be able to find a cheaper option through an automotive locksmith.

In the majority of cases, you will need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, like an original registration or title, in order to get an alternative key from the dealership. The dealership will order the replacement key and attach it to your vehicle. The dealer will have to complete this lengthy procedure.

Many vehicles today have keys that are specialized known as a smart keys. They are designed to work with a proximity sensor that can be activated inside the car, which allows keyless entry and starting. These keys are often paired with ignitions that require a push to start. Dealers will offer you a smart key but it is expensive. A local auto locksmith can make a smart key for you for a fraction of what you would purchase from a dealership.

You can also purchase a replacement for your classic key at the local hardware store. They can create a standard lock cylinder key. They will require the VIN and the model year. If you can't find the VIN on your vehicle it will be stamped on a plaque made of metal that is located on the dashboard or the driver's doorpost. Even if you do not have the original key, most locksmiths for automotive can provide you with a replacement car key. However, in some cases, they may need to remove the door and ignition to do so. It's not a risky job, but it requires some technical knowledge.

2. Contact a Locksmith

The most common reason for seeking roadside assistance is because you've lost car keys replacement near me your car keys. Keep an extra car key in your bag and store it safely. Even the most careful people can lose their keys. You should check for the car key and inform your insurance company immediately if you find it. This will decrease the chance of your claim being rejected later should your key be found stolen.

A locksmith's call is the best option in the event that you don't have an extra. Locksmiths are usually able to provide a replacement key for less than the dealership would charge. They will usually come out to your location and make the key right there and is more convenient than having to bring your vehicle back to the dealership.

The cost of replacing your car key can vary depending on the type you own. Keys that are traditional that can be exchanged at most hardware stores for $10 each and are the cheapest. If your car is equipped with keys that can be used as a remote for unlocking and start the car, or a smart-key that can only be replaced at a dealership, the cost of these keys is typically more expensive than traditional keys.

A locksmith can replace the smart key or key fob in the majority of cases as long as they have the VIN number of your vehicle. This is usually found on the metal plate on the driver's doorpost or stamped on the windshield. They will require proof of ownership, like your registration or title.

Always do your homework prior to hiring a locksmith. You can find qualified auto-locksmiths by searching on the internet or asking family members 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. Using unauthorized key may also cause damage to the lock of your car. If you do not wish to risk it then call roadside help instead of a locksmith for cars and wait until the dealer sends out a replacement key.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

One of the most dangerous things you can do when you lose your car keys is to panic. Take a deep breath, and then try to think about your situation. Most likely, you lost key to my car your keys due to you lost them, rather than having them stolen. The next step is to retrace your steps and determine where they went missing. It's a good idea to check places you don't normally check such as the pockets of your pants, or a coat or a bag that you use to run in. After you've looked in these places you must contact your insurance company.

Most modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that communicate with your vehicle via a chip. This communication allows the vehicle recognize the key fob and open the doors, as well as start the engine. If you lose your keys it is important to report this immediately to ensure that people who are not authorized can't enter your car and use it.

Certain insurance companies provide an extra benefit to their policy that covers the cost of replacing a key for your car. Check with your insurance company to find out if this type of coverage is offered or if an individual locksmith can cover the cost.

You can usually replace a mechanical key in most hardware stores for a fair cost. However, if your vehicle is equipped with an electronic key fob that's linked to your vehicle via the chip, you'll have to visit your dealer to request the replacement. This can be expensive, but it's much cheaper than hiring locksmith.

In the event of filing an insurance claim because of the theft of your car key could increase your insurance rates. Your insurance company could raise your premiums due to the fact that they'll view you as a high-risk driver because you lost your key. Fortunately, you can often save yourself the cost of purchasing a tracking device to track your lost car key or having a locksmith create the new key without cloning the original.

4. Contact a Tow truck

It's the most gruelling thing to lose your car keys and no one wants to experience this. If it does happen it can be expensive to replace the lost key and get back on the road again. It's important to be prepared so that you don't have to call a tow-truck and keep your money.

When you've lost key fob your car keys, the very first thing to do is trace your steps. This will allow you to locate them and ease your anxiety. You might recall doing something in the grocery store, or dropping your keys on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you to find your starting point.

If you're unable to locate your 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 came home. If you're still not able to locate them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.

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

The cost to replace a lost car key (More Signup bonuses) can differ based on the type of key you have. If you own a traditional key, an automotive locksmith can typically make a new one in a matter of minutes without the original, which will save you some money. If you are using a smart-key that utilizes a proximity detector to open doors or turn on your car's engine it is necessary to visit a dealership to get a replacement.

You should have a plan for when you lose your keys. This will save you the hassle of having to pay for the tow-truck or locksmith. If you're exhausted or distracted, it's easy to lose your car keys. But by following these tips to ensure that your keys don't vanish for ever and have a backup plan in case the event that they do.