How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Things tend to get lost in the chaos of getting kids to and from school, completing errands and working. Car keys are one of the most commonly lost car key no spare items.

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

1. Call Your Car Dealership

Your car key lost replacement dealer is the first person to contact if you lose your key. The majority of dealers have a record for each key they make for their vehicles, so they are likely to be able find yours. The downside is that going to the dealership can be expensive, so it’s important to shop for a different one. You might be able find a cheaper solution through an automotive locksmith.

You will most likely need to provide the dealership with your vehicle identification number or VIN, along with proof of ownership (such as a copy of your registration or title) to get an alternative key. The dealership will then order the replacement key and attach it to your vehicle. This can be a lengthy procedure, and you’ll need to wait until the dealer has completed the process.

Smart keys are a form of key that is used in a variety of cars today. They are designed to work with a proximity sensor to be activated within the car, allowing keyless entry and start. These keys are often paired with ignitions that require a push-to-start. You can buy a new smart key from the dealership, but the cost is a bit expensive. Local auto locksmiths can give 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 the standard lock cylinder keys. They’ll need to know the year of manufacture of your car, as well as the VIN. If you can’t locate the VIN it’s usually printed on a metal plate that is located on the driver’s side doorpost or the dashboard. Even if you do not have the original, most locksmiths in the automotive industry can offer an alternative car key. In some instances, they may need to take apart the ignition and door locks in order to do this. It’s not a risky task, but it requires some mechanical knowledge.

2. Call an expert locksmith

The most common reason for roadside assistance is because you’ve lost your car keys. Keep a spare car key with you and store it in a safe place. However, even the most careful people can lose their car keys. It is essential to search thoroughly for the keys and notify your insurance company as soon as you can to minimize the chance of being denied a claim if it turns up stolen later.

Calling a locksmith is the next best thing if you don’t own an extra. A locksmith can generally offer a replacement key for less than what the dealership would charge. They may also come to your location to create the key on the spot, which is more convenient than having your vehicle brought back to the dealer.

The cost of replacing your car keys can vary depending on the type you have. Traditional keys that can be exchanged at most hardware stores for $10 each they are the least expensive. If your car comes with a key fob that can be used as a remote for unlocking and start the vehicle or a smart-key, which is only able to be replaced at a dealership, the cost of these keys is usually higher than the traditional one.

A locksmith can replace the smart key or key fob in the majority of cases as long they have the VIN number for your vehicle. This number is typically found on the metal plaque on the driver’s doorpost or stamped on the windshield. They will also require proof that you have ownership of the vehicle and have the registration or title.

You should always conduct your research prior to hiring locksmith. You can find reputable auto locksmiths on the internet or asking friends and family for suggestions. Be aware that using an unlicensed key to start your car could lead to a breach of warranty. Unauthorized keys can cause damage to the lock of your vehicle. If you do not want to risk it you should contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith for your car and wait until your dealer delivers a new key.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

Panic is among the most unpleasant reactions you could have when you lose your key. Relax, and then try to think about your situation. It is more likely you misplaced your keys than they were stolen. The next step is to retrace your steps and attempt to find out the place they went missing. You may want to look in areas you’re not usually checking, like the pockets of your pants or bags or coats that you use for running. After you’ve inspected these areas it is time to call your insurance provider.

Modern cars are fitted with electronic key fobs that connect to your car through chip. This allows the car to recognize the key fob and broken open the doors, and start the engine. It is crucial to report the loss of your keys immediately to stop unauthorized persons from accessing your vehicle.

Certain insurance companies provide an extra benefit to their policy that will cover the cost of replacing a key for your car. It’s worth talking to your insurance company to find out whether they have this type of insurance or if you can find an individual locksmith that will pay for the cost.

If your car uses a standard mechanical key, you’ll be able to get it replaced at any hardware store for a nominal cost. However, if your car is equipped with an electronic key fob, which is connected to your car via the chip, you’ll have go to the dealership to request the replacement. It can be costly, but it’s much cheaper than hiring a locksmith.

In addition to the cost of replacing your car key and filing an insurance claim for a stolen key can cause your car insurance rates to increase. Your insurance company could raise your premiums due to the fact that they’ll consider you to be a high-risk motorist in the event of losing your key. You can reduce these cost by buying a tracking device that will track your lost key or hiring a professional locksmith to design a key without cloning the original one.

4. Call a tow truck

It’s the most gruelling thing to lose your car keys and nobody wants to experience this. But if it does, it can be costly to replace the key that was lost and get back on the road again. It’s why it’s important to be prepared in case it happens, so that you won’t need to call an tow truck and keep your cash in your wallet.

Retrace your steps if you’ve i’ve lost my car keys your keys. This can help you determine where they are, and help you calm your anxiety. You may remember doing something at the grocery store or dropping your keys on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you determine where you should start.

If you can’t find 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 the keys, give yourself time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.

A bluetooth key tracker can also be used with your phone. These are small devices that can be attached to your keyring and use an app installed on your phone that will show you where your keys are, so you don’t need to search every drawer or pocket in your house.

The cost of replacing the car key that has been lost car key with no spare can differ depending on the type of key you own. You could save money if you have a traditional car key. An automotive locksmith will usually be capable of making a replacement on the spot, without the original. However, if you own an electronic key that utilizes proximity sensors to open the door or turn on the engine, you’ll have to go to the dealership to get a replacement.

It’s important to have a plan for when you lose your car keys so that you can avoid the hassle of having to pay for the tow truck or locksmith. When you’re tired or distracted, it’s not difficult to lose your keys to your car. But by following these tips you can ensure that your keys won’t vanish forever and have a backup plan in case when they do.