How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Car keys are lost is a nightmare. This was not an issue until the last few years however, as cars become more technologically advanced, it is becoming more difficult.
Sometimes, keys are lost due to the fact that you've reached into your pocket for something else, and then accidentally thrown them away somewhere. A spare key at home will help you avoid these situations.
1. Contact a locksmith
It's a fact that losing your car keys could be a huge inconvenience. But, there's no need to be in a panic. If you know who to contact and what you should do, it should only take a few steps to get your keys replaced in your car.
Try to go back the steps you took. This might sound like a simple task however it can be difficult when you're in a rush or you're already worried about the loss of your car keys. Make sure to check all of your bags and pockets to see in which you may have put them down, and also the area around your car.
If you're unable to locate your car keys, it's time to contact a locksmith. Typically, locksmiths will be capable of creating an entirely new key for your vehicle faster than the dealership. Additionally, they are able to accomplish this for much less than the dealership would charge you.
Some dealerships can make replacement car keys as well but they might not be able to complete it immediately or even at all. They typically have a high volume of customers, so they may not be able accommodate you right away. In addition, they might not be able to make an exact duplicate of your key.
Another option is to buy an online replacement for your car key. You can find these on Amazon and other places for much cheaper than the price you purchase from a dealer but they may not be able to cut or program them for the specific model of car you have.
Certain insurance policies will cover the cost of replacing a stolen or lost vehicle key. So, it's always worthwhile to check whether you have insurance which will help pay for the cost of getting an additional key for your vehicle. Be aware that you'll need to provide proof of ownership and proof of identity to the person or company who creates the replacement key. This is legally required. It can be very expensive if you are not able to provide proof of ownership.
2. Call the Dealership
It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. It was not expensive to purchase a new key from the dealer. However, with cars getting more advanced in technology and keys becoming more expensive to replace it's not as simple as it was in the past. If you lose your keys today it's not uncommon to spend several hundred dollars to have them replaced.
It is important to be calm when you've lost your car keys. This will enable you to think clearly and make an informed decision. Also, make sure that you have a backup set of keys somewhere, like in your pocket or the trunk of your car, so that if you do lose the original keys and you lose them, you won't lose any money. You should also check to find out if the replacement key is covered under your warranty or car insurance, which can assist you in saving money in a crisis.
The next step is to conduct thorough searches of your car, home and your wallet or purse for keys that are missing. You can also go back through the steps you followed, and remember when you last held your keys and where you were at the time you lost them. This can help you figure out where they are, which is a relief.
After you've conducted a thorough search and can't find your car keys, the next step is to contact your dealer. Dealerships are aware of the vehicle they are servicing and can give you keys to replace. They're usually busy and cannot accommodate people who require a quick response. lost my car key can cause the process to be difficult.
If you can contact your dealer they'll be able create a new key for you using the VIN number on file. They can also modify your immobilizer, which is necessary to start your car. However, if you're looking to find an immediate, reliable solution that doesn't involve waiting in the dealership, a locksmith might be a better choice.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Not so long ago, misplacing your car keys was not a big deal. You could call a locksmith to travel to your location and duplicate your key at a reasonable cost. As cars have become more technologically advanced, keys have also become more expensive.
Based on the type of vehicle and the year the process of replacing a lost car key can take a few steps and can cost you hundreds of dollars. It's always a good idea to keep an extra set of car keys in your pocket. This is especially important when you live in an area that is prone to danger or a place with an abundance of theft.
While it might seem like a waste of time to contact your insurance company, calling them can save you money in the long run. Check with your agent to determine whether you are able to get an alternative car key that is that is covered by your policy.
If your insurance policy provides roadside assistance, you should take into consideration this. If it does, the company might send someone out to help you with your situation which could be less stressful than dealing with a locksmith or a dealership.
Before you call your insurance company, make sure to search thoroughly for your keys. If you believe they're in the car, check the trunk and under the seat. If you're at home, look in the pockets of the clothes you were wearing and in other places where you may have a habit of placing them. Check any places where you might have left them. For example, your purse or an unorganized office.
After you've tried to locate your car keys It's recommended to contact your dealer to have them replaced. In most cases, this won't be a problem and is much less expensive than hiring a locksmith or going through the insurance company.
Ask the dealer to make an extra key for you, especially if your car doesn't have an remote. Most of the time, your dealership can clone the spare key for you without altering anything else in your vehicle. If you decide to do this, make sure to keep the key in a place that is secure and safe so that you can retrieve it if you lose it.
4. Call the Police
Notifying your car keys that you lost can help you locate the keys and keep you safe. If someone takes your vehicle without permission, they may be subject to fines if they drive it on public roads or on private property. You can help protect yourself by reporting your keys stolen before someone else steals your vehicle. This leaves a trace on paper that will show when and who reported the theft.
It's common to lose your car keys, however it does not need to be a disaster. As long as you call the right people, you'll in a position to obtain a replacement key quickly and easily. You can also avoid future key misplacements by following the guidelines provided in this article.
First, try to retrace your steps. This will allow you to remember where you might have lost your keys. If you were driving to work and then went to a restaurant to get some food You may recall that your keys were in your pocket when you left your vehicle. If you cannot find your key, you might have put it in the bag you used to carry around things or at the table that you ate at.
Posting your lost key online is another good idea. This will be seen by a large audience and increase your chances of finding it. You can also search local businesses and community bulletin boards.
Before you start looking for your keys, be sure to write down the VIN number of your vehicle. You'll require this information to replace your keys therefore it's essential to keep it in a safe place. The VIN is typically located on your driver's license but can also be found on your insurance card or in the owner's manual of your vehicle.
Contact the police when you've exhausted all other options. They'll be capable of providing you with a temporary replacement for your vehicle and can make a report that could be useful in the event that keys are discovered.