How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Things tend to get lost in the rush of bringing kids to and from school, running errands and working. Car keys are among of the most frequently lost my car key items.

In the past, this was not a big deal because you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. Nowadays, that is not as simple.

1. Call 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 record of every key that they have made for their vehicles, so they are likely to be able find your key. It is expensive to go to a dealership and you should shop around. You might be able find a cheaper solution through an automotive locksmith.

In most cases, you will need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, like a copy of your registration or title, in order to obtain an alternative key from the dealer. The dealership will then purchase an additional key and connect it with your vehicle. This can be a lengthy process, and you'll be waiting until the dealer has completed the task.

Many vehicles today are equipped with the special kind of key known as a smart keys. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, which allows for keyless entry and starting. They are usually paired with push-to-start ignitions. The dealer can sell you a smart key, but it's costly. Local auto locksmiths can make you a smart lock at a fraction of the cost.

You can also purchase a traditional key replacement at your local hardware store. They can create a standard key that fits the lock cylinder in your car. They will need to know the year of manufacture of your car and also the VIN. If you are unable to locate the VIN it's typically printed on a metal plate located on the driver's side doorpost or the dashboard. Most locksmiths in the automotive industry can provide you with an alternative car key, even if you don't have the original. In some cases the locksmith may need to remove the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. This is not a hazardous job, but it requires some technical knowledge.

2. Call an expert locksmith

The most frequent reason for requesting roadside assistance is that you have lost your car keys. Keep a spare car key in your bag and store it in a safe place. Even the most careful of people could lose their keys. You should look for the car keys and inform your insurance provider immediately if you discover it. This will decrease the chance of your claim being rejected later should your key be found stolen.

If you don't have a spare key, the next best option is to call an locksmith. Locksmiths are usually able to provide a replacement key for less than the dealership will cost. They can also visit your location to make keys right there which is easier than having your car brought back to the dealer.

The cost of replacing your car key will differ based on the kind of key you have. The most affordable keys are the traditional keys that can be bought at most hardware stores. They cost about $10 per key. If your vehicle is equipped with an ignition key that can be used as a remote to unlock and start the car, or a smart-key, which can only by replaced at an auto dealer, the cost of these keys is typically more expensive than the standard one.

In most cases, an automotive locksmith will be able to replace a key fob or smart key if they can get the VIN number of your vehicle it is usually located on a metal plate on your driver's side doorpost or etched into the windshield of the vehicle. They will also require proof that you have ownership of the vehicle and have an original registration or title.

Some locksmiths are not licensed or insured, so make sure to research them before hiring. You can find reputable auto locksmiths on the internet or asking friends and family for recommendations. Be aware that using keys that are not yours to start the car can result in a breach of the warranty on your vehicle. Unauthorized keys can damage your car's lock. If you don't want to risk it you should consider to contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith, and wait for a replacement key from the dealer.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

Panic is among the worst reactions you can have when you lose your keys. The first thing to do is take an inhale and try to rationalize the situation. Chances are that you lost your keys because you misplaced them instead of them being taken. The next step is to retrace your steps and try to find out where they disappeared. It may help to look around in places that you wouldn't usually check, such as pockets in your pants or coat, or in the bag you use when running. After you've checked these places, you should call your insurance provider.

Modern cars are fitted with electronic keys that communicate with your car via chips. This communication allows the vehicle recognize the key fob, and then open the doors, as well as start the engine. If you lose your key, it's important to report this immediately so that unauthorized people can't enter your car and use it.

Some insurance companies offer an extra benefit to their policy that covers the cost of a replacement key for your car. It is worth contacting your insurance company to find out if they offer this type of insurance or if you can locate an individual locksmith who will pay for the cost.

It is possible to replace the mechanical key at most hardware stores for a fair price. If your car uses an electronic key that connects to your car via the chip, you will have to visit the dealership to get an alternative. It's expensive but it's cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.

Filing an insurance claim due to the theft of your car key could increase your insurance premiums. Your insurance company could increase your premiums because they'll consider you to be an extremely risky driver because you lost your key. Fortunately, you can often avoid the extra expenses by purchasing a device to track your lost my keys car key or letting a locksmith design an entirely new key without copying the original.

4. Contact a Tow truck

No one wants to lose their car keys. It's the worst thing that could happen. If it does happen it could cost of replacing lost car keys a lot to replace keys and get back on the road. It is important to be prepared in order that you don't need to call a tow truck and save your money.

If you've lost your car keys lost what to do keys, the first thing to do is retrace your steps. This will aid in determining where they are and can help you calm your anxiety. Make a list of what you did prior to losing your keys, for example, buying something at the grocery store or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you pinpoint your place of origin.

If you are unable to locate your keys, look in places where you could have placed them, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or the bag you used to carry them to home. If you still can't find the keys, give yourself time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.

A key tracker with bluetooth can be used with your phone. These are small devices that can attach to a keyring and an app on your phone will display the whereabouts of your keys.

The cost of replacing a car key that is lost may differ based on the type of key you own. It is cheaper in the case of traditional car keys. An automotive locksmith will usually be able to make a replacement on the spot, but without the original. But if you have an electronic key that relies on proximity sensors to open the door or start the engine, you'll need to go to the dealership to get a replacement.

It is essential to have a plan for when you lose your car keys so that you will not have the hassle of having to pay for a tow truck or a locksmith. It's easy to forget your car keys when you're tired after a long day or when your mind is busy with other things. But by following these tips you can ensure your keys don't disappear forever and have a backup plan for when they do.