15 Reasons To Not Ignore Replace Lost Car Key
How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the shuffle of taking children to school, running errands, and working it is common for things to get lost. keys lost of the most common items that disappears is our keys to our cars.
In the past you could easily replace this at your local hardware or locksmith store. Nowadays, that is not as simple.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should contact should you lose your keys. Most car dealers keep track of each key made for their vehicles therefore it should be simple for them to find your key. It is expensive to go to a dealership, so you should shop around. You might be able get a cheaper option through an auto locksmith.
It is likely that you will need to give the dealership your vehicle identification number, or VIN, along with proof of ownership (such as a copy of your registration or title) to obtain an alternative key. The dealership will request an alternative key and connect it with your vehicle. The dealer must complete this lengthy process.
Smart keys are a form of key that is used in a variety of cars today. 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. The dealer will sell you a smart key however, it's expensive. A local auto locksmith can make an intelligent key for you at a fraction of what you would pay at the dealership.
You can also get a replacement for your classic key at the local hardware store. They can create a standard lock cylinder key. They will need the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you are unable to locate the VIN on your car, 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, many locksmiths in the automotive industry can provide you with a replacement car key. In some instances, they may need to disassemble the door lock and ignition to do so. This is not a risky job for a professional, however it does require some mechanical expertise and skills.
2. Contact a Locksmith
The most common reason for roadside assistance is when you've lost your car keys. Keep an extra car key in your bag and keep it safe. Even the most careful people could lose their keys. You should look for the car keys and inform your insurance company immediately if you discover it. This will lower the chances of your claim being denied if your key is found stolen.
A locksmith's call is the next best thing if you don't own a spare. Locksmiths can usually provide a key replacement at less than what a dealership would charge. They can also come to your home to make keys right there, which is more convenient than having your vehicle taken back to the dealer.
The type of car key that you have could affect the cost of replacing it. Keys with traditional designs that can be exchanged at the majority of hardware stores for around $10 each they are the least expensive. If your vehicle is equipped with an ignition key that can be used as a remote for unlocking and start the car, or a smart-key, which can only by replaced at an auto dealer, the cost of these keys is usually higher than the traditional one.
In the majority of instances, an automotive locksmith will be able to replace the key fob or smart key if they have the VIN number for your vehicle that is usually found on a metal plate on your driver's side doorpost or stamped into the windshield of the car. They will also need proof that you own the car and have a copy of your registration or title.
Some locksmiths aren't licensed or insured, so make sure to do your research prior to hiring. You can find qualified auto locksmiths on the internet or asking friends and family for suggestions. Be aware that using an unlicensed key to start your vehicle could cause an infringement of warranty. The use of a key that is not authentic could cause damage to the lock on your vehicle. If you aren't willing to risk it you should consider to call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith and wait for your replacement key from the dealer.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
One of the most dangerous things you can do when you lose your car keys is to panic. The first thing you should do is to take an inhale and try to understand the situation. It is more likely that you misplaced your keys than they were stolen. The next step is retrace the steps you followed and try to find out where your keys went missing. It may help to check places you would not normally check for items, like pockets in your coat or pants or in a bag you carry for running. After you've inspected all these places it's a good idea call your insurance company.
Most modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs which communicate with your vehicle via chip. This communication lets the car recognize the key fob and open the doors, and also start the engine. If you lose your keys it is important to report this immediately to ensure that anyone who isn't authorized can't enter your car and use it.
Some car insurance providers offer an insurance add-on that covers the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. It's worth talking to your insurance provider to see whether they have this type of coverage or if you can find an individual locksmith that can cover the cost.
It is possible to replace the mechanical key at most hardware stores for a reasonable price. If your car is equipped with an electronic key that is connected to your vehicle via the chip, you will need to visit your dealership to get an replacement. It's not cheap however it's much cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.
Filing an insurance claim because of the theft of your car key could increase your insurance premiums. The insurance company could raise your premiums due to the fact that they'll view you as an extremely risky driver for losing your key. You can avoid these extra cost by buying a tracking device that will locate your lost key or having a professional locksmith create an original key without copying the old key.
4. Contact a Tow Truck
No one wants to lose their car keys. It's the worst thing that could occur. If it happens it could cost a lot to replace the key and get back on the road. It's why it's important to be prepared in case it does, so you don't have to call an tow truck and keep your cash in your wallet.
Follow your steps in case you've lost your keys. This can help you figure out exactly where they are, and help you calm your anxiety. Make a list of what you did prior to losing your keys, such as buying something at the supermarket or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you to determine where you should start.
If you are unable to locate 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 when you got home. If you're still unable to locate them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.
Another alternative is to utilize an bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are small devices that can be attached to your keyring and have an app installed on your phone that can reveal where your keys are so you don't have to search every drawer or pocket within your home.
The cost of replacing a lost car key can differ based on the type of key you own. If you own a traditional key that is used for automotive, a locksmith can generally make a new key immediately without the original, which can save you money. However, if you own a smart key that uses proximity sensors to open the door or start the engine, you'll need to visit the dealer to purchase a new one.
It is essential to have a plan in place to deal with the loss of your car keys, so that you will not have the hassle of having to pay for a tow truck or a locksmith. When you're tired or distracted, it's easy to lose your keys to your car. However, by following these steps to ensure that your keys won't vanish forever, and you have a backup plan for when they do.