How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Things are often lost in the chaos of getting kids to and from school, running errands and working. One of the most frequently lost items that go missing is our keys to our car.

In the past, this was not an issue because you could easily replace it at your local hardware store or locksmith. This isn't the situation anymore.

1. Call Your Car Dealership

Your car dealer is the first person you should contact in case you lose your key. The majority of car dealers keep track of every key that is designed for their vehicles, making it easy for them to find yours. The drawback is that visiting the dealership can be expensive, so it's important to shop for a different one. You may be able to locate a lower cost solution by using an auto locksmith.

You'll likely have to give the dealership your vehicle identification number or VIN, as well as proof of ownership (such as a copy of registration or title) to get the replacement key. The dealership will then request a new key and pair it with your vehicle. The dealer will have to complete this lengthy process.

Smart keys are a form of key that is utilized in many cars in the present. They are designed to activate a proximity sensor inside the vehicle, which allows for keyless entry and starting. These keys are typically used with ignitions that require a push-to-start. Dealers will offer you a smart key, but it's costly. Local auto locksmiths can create you a smart lock at less than the cost.

You can also replace your classic key at the local hardware store. They can design the standard lock cylinder keys. They will need the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you can't find the VIN on your vehicle it will be engraved on a metal plaque that is placed on the dashboard or driver's doorpost. Even if you do not have the original, most automotive locksmiths can provide you with an alternative car key. In certain instances, the locksmith may have to remove the door lock and ignition in order to complete the task. This is not a hazardous job, but it does require some knowledge of mechanics.

2. Contact a Locksmith

Losing your car keys is one of the most frequent reasons for roadside assistance and callouts. Keep an extra car key in your bag and keep it safe. Even the most careful people can lose their keys. It is important to thoroughly search for the keys and inform your insurance company as soon as you can to minimize the chances of getting denied a claim in the event that it turns up stolen later.

Contacting a locksmith is the best option when you don't have a spare. A locksmith can generally offer a replacement key for less than what the dealership will charge. They can also usually come out to your location and make the key on the spot and is more efficient than having to take your vehicle back to the dealership.

The type of car key that you have could affect the cost of replacing it. The most affordable keys are the standard keys that can be bought at many hardware stores. They are about $10 per key. If your car has an ignition key fob that acts as a remote that allows you to open and start the engine, or a smart-key, which can only be replaced by dealers, these keys will usually cost more than the standard key.

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

It is essential to do your homework prior to hiring locksmith. You can find reputable auto locksmiths through online search engines, or asking family and friends for suggestions. Be aware that using an unlicensed key to start your vehicle could result in a breach of warranty. The use of a key that is not authentic could cause damage to the lock of your car. If you do not wish to risk it, it is best to call roadside help instead of a car locksmith and wait until your 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 key is to panic. The first step is take an inhale and try to think about the situation. It is more likely that you lost your keys than they were stolen. The next step is to retrace your steps and figure out the location where they went missing. You may want to look in places that you wouldn't normally look at, like the pockets of your pants, bag or coat you carry for running. After you've inspected all of these areas, it's a good idea call your insurance company.

Most modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that communicate with your car through chip. This communication allows the vehicle recognize the key fob and open the doors, as well as start the engine. It's important that you report the loss of your keys immediately to stop unauthorized persons from using your vehicle.

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

You can usually replace the mechanical key at most hardware stores for a fair cost. However, if your car has an electronic key fob that's connected to your car via the chip, you'll have to go to your dealership to request a replacement lost car keys. It can be costly however it's much cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.

In addition to the cost of replacing your car keys and filing an insurance claim to replace a lost key can cause your car insurance rates to increase. Your insurance company could increase your premiums as they will consider you an extremely risky driver in the event of losing your key. Fortunately, you can reduce the costs by purchasing a device to locate your car key that has been lost or having a locksmith make an entirely new key without copying the original.

4. Call a Tow truck

Everyone would hate to lose their car keys. It is the worst thing that could occur. If it does happen it could be costly to replace keys and get back on the road. It's why it's important to be prepared if it does, so you don't have to call a tow truck, and keep your money in your wallet.

Find your way back in case you've lost electric key your keys. This will help you find the keys and calm your panic. Try to recall the actions you took prior to losing your keys, like buying something at the grocery store or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you determine your starting point.

If you can't find 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 after you returned home. If you still can't find them, give yourself some time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.

Another alternative is to utilize a bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are small devices that you can attach to your keyring and have an app installed on your phone that can show you where your keys are so you don't need to search every drawer or pocket in your home.

The cost of replacing a lost car keys what to do car key can be a bit expensive dependent on the type of key you have. It is cheaper when you use a traditional car key. An automotive locksmith will usually be able to make a replacement immediately, and without the original. If you have an electronic key that relies on the proximity sensor to open the door or turn on the engine, you'll have to visit the dealer to purchase a new one.

You must have a plan in case you lose your keys. This will help you avoid the expense of the tow-truck or locksmith. When you're tired or distracted, it's not difficult to lose your car keys. If you follow these suggestions, you can make sure that your keys won't vanish for ever and have a backup plan the event that they do.