How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Things are often lost in the rush of getting kids to and from school, completing errands and working. Car keys are one of the most frequently lost items.
In the past you could easily replace this at the local locksmith or hardware store. However, this isn't the situation anymore.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should contact should you lose your keys. The majority of car dealers have a record for every key that they have made for their vehicles, which means they will be able to locate your key. The disadvantage is that visiting the dealership can be expensive and it's essential to look for a different one. You might be able to locate a lower cost option through an automotive locksmith.
In the majority of instances, you'll need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, such as an original registration or title, to obtain an alternative key from the dealership. The dealership will order the replacement key and attach it to your vehicle. This could be a long procedure, and you'll need to wait until the dealer has completed the process.
Many cars today are equipped with keys that are specialized called a smart key. They are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, which allows the use of a keyless entry system and even starting. They are typically used in conjunction with ignitions that have a push-to-start feature. Dealers will offer you a smart key but it's costly. A local auto locksmith can make a smart key for you for about half the cost of what you'd buy from the dealership.
You can also get an old-fashioned key replacement at your local hardware store. They can make you a standard lock cylinder key. They will require the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you're unable to find the VIN it's typically printed on a metal plate located on the driver's side doorpost or the dashboard. The majority of locksmiths for automotive will be able to provide you with an alternative car key, even if you don't have the original. In certain instances the locksmith might need to disassemble the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. This is not a dangerous job for a professional, but it does require some mechanical expertise and skills.
2. Call a Locksmith
The most common reason for requesting roadside assistance is when you've lost your car keys. It's important to keep a spare key on you and make sure it's safe. Even the most cautious of people may lose their keys. It is important to look for the car keys and inform your insurance company 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, your next best option is to call the locksmith. Locksmiths can usually provide a replacement key at less than the dealership would cost. They will usually visit your location and make the key on the spot, which is much more convenient than having to bring your vehicle back to the dealership.
The cost of replacing your car keys will differ based on the kind of key you own. Keys that are traditional are able to be replaced at most hardware stores for about $10 each, are the most affordable. If your car comes with a key fob that can be used as a remote to unlock and start the vehicle 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 most instances, an auto locksmith can replace keys fobs or a smart key if they can get the VIN number for your vehicle that is usually found on a metal plaque on the driver's side doorpost, or etched into the windshield of the vehicle. They will also require proof that you have ownership of the vehicle, such as the registration or title.
You should always do your homework prior to hiring a locksmith. You can locate reputable 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 a breach of warranty. The use of keys that are not authorized could 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
One of the most dangerous things you can do when you lose your car key is to panic. Relax, and then try to rationalize your situation. It is more likely you lost your keys than they were stolen. The next step is to go back your steps and try to determine where they disappeared. You may want to look in areas you're not usually checking such as the pockets of your pants, or a bag or coat that you use for running. After you've inspected these areas, you should call your insurance company.
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate via a chip with the car. This process of communication allows the vehicle to recognize and unlock the doors, and also start the engine. If you lose your keys, it's important to notify the police immediately to ensure that anyone who isn't authorized aren't able to enter your vehicle and use it.
Certain car insurance companies provide an insurance add-on that covers the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. Check with your insurance company to determine if this kind of insurance is offered or if an individual locksmith will cover the costs.
It is possible to replace the mechanical key at most hardware stores for a fair price. However, if your car is equipped with an electronic key fob, which is paired with your car through the chip, you'll need to go to your dealership to request an upgrade. It's not cheap, but it is much cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.
Filing an insurance claim due to a stolen car key can increase your insurance premiums. This is because your insurance provider will consider you to be an extremely risky driver for the loss of your car keys, and may raise your premiums to offset the cost of settling an insurance claim. You can reduce these cost by buying a tracking device that will locate your lost key or hiring a professional locksmith to create keys without copying the old key.
4. Call a tow truck
It's the most gruelling thing to lose your car keys and nobody wants to experience this. If it happens, it can be expensive to replace keys and get back on the road. It's important to be prepared so that you don't have call a tow truck and keep your money.
Retrace your steps if you've lost your keys. This can aid in determining where they are and help you calm your anxiety. You may remember doing something at the supermarket or dropping your keys on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you find your starting point.
If you are unable to locate your keys, search in places you might have put them, such as the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or the bag you used to carry them home. If you're still unable to locate them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.
A bluetooth key tracker can also be utilized on your phone. These are tiny devices that you can attach to a keyring, and an app on your smartphone will provide you with the whereabouts of your keys.
The cost of replacing the car key that has been lost can differ based on the type of key you have. G28 Car Keys is cheaper when you use traditional car keys. A locksmith for automotive will usually be capable of making a replacement on the spot, but without the original. But if you have an electronic key that utilizes proximity sensors to open the door or start the engine, you'll need to go to the dealership to get a replacement.
It's important to have a plan in place to deal with the loss of your car keys, so you will not have the hassle of having to pay for the tow truck or locksmith. If you're exhausted or distracted, it's easy to lose your car keys. By following these tips you can ensure that your keys don't disappear forever, and have a back-up plan in case they happen to disappear.