How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Losing car keys is a nightmare. Not long ago this wasn't a huge issue, but it's becoming more complicated as cars become technologically advanced.
You could lose your keys when you accidentally knock them off the table while reaching into your pockets to grab something else. You can avoid this by keeping a spare key in your home.
1. Contact a locksmith
It's a fact that losing your car keys can be a huge hassle. There's no need to panic. As long as you know who to call and what you should do you should only need to take a few steps to get your car keys replaced.
It is recommended to try retracing the steps you made. It might appear obvious, but it can be difficult to do if are stressed or concerned about losing your car keys. Make sure to check all your pockets and bags in which you've put them down, and also the area around your car.
Contact a locksmith if are unable to locate your car keys. Locksmiths can usually make a key for your car faster than a dealership. In addition, they will usually accomplish this for much cheaper than the dealership will charge you.
Some dealerships are able to create replacement keys, however they might not be able to do it in the immediate future or at any time. There are many dealerships that have a high volume of clients, so they might not be able to help your request immediately. In addition, they may not be able create an exact replica of your current key.
Another option is to buy a replacement car key online. The keys are available on Amazon and other websites for a price that is lower than you'd pay a dealer. However, they may not have the ability to cut and program these keys for your specific car model.
Certain insurance policies also cover the cost of replacing a stolen or lost car key. So, it's always worthwhile to check whether you have insurance that would help cover the cost of getting an additional key for your vehicle. Be aware that you'll have to prove ownership and proof of identity to the individual or company who is responsible for the creation of the replacement key. This is legally required. If you're not able prove ownership, it could be quite costly.
2. Contact the Dealership
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing or losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. It was easy to get an alternative key from a dealership and it wasn't too much to get it done. However, this is no longer the case, because cars are more modern and keys are more expensive. If you lose your keys today, it's not uncommon to pay several hundred dollars to have them replaced.
If you've lost your car keys the first thing you should do is be calm. This will help you think clearly and make the best choice about how to resolve the issue. 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 they won't cost you any money at all. You should also check to find out if the replacement key is covered under your warranty or insurance for your car, which can assist you in saving money in the event of a financial crisis.
Then, look in your vehicle, your home and purse, or your wallet for keys that are missing. You can try to trace your steps, recollecting where you last saw them and where you were when you lost them. This can help you find out where they are, which is a great relief.
Contact your dealer if haven't found your keys after an exhaustive search. Dealerships are familiar with the specific car you have, so they're the best option for a new key. However, they're usually busy and can't accommodate people with short notice, which could make the process difficult.
If you contact your dealership, they will be able create keys for you based on the VIN number that is saved on their system. They can also reprogram the immobilizer device which is needed to start your car. However, if you're looking to find a fast, reliable solution that doesn't involve waiting at the dealership, a locksmith might be the best option.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing keys to your car was not a big issue. You could contact a locksmith to drive to your location and duplicate your key for a reasonable price. As cars have become more technologically advanced, the keys have also become more expensive.
Based on the type of car you drive and year the replacement of a lost key can be a lengthy process that can cost hundreds of dollars. That's why it's always an excellent idea to keep an extra set of keys on the go, especially if live in a dangerous neighborhood or an area where theft is commonplace.
It may seem like a waste to call your insurance provider but it can actually save you money over the course of time. Talk to your agent to determine whether you are able to get a replacement car key insured by your policy.
If your policy provides roadside assistance, you should also consider this. If it does, the company could send someone out to help you with your situation and it could be less stressful than dealing with a dealership or locksmith.
Before calling your insurance company, be sure to search thoroughly for your keys. If you believe they're in the car, check under the trunk and under the seat. Examine the pockets of your clothes and other places you might have been used to putting them. Check any places where you might have left them. For instance, in your purse or an unorganized office.
If you've managed to find the car keys, it's a good idea to call your dealer to have them replaced. Most of the time it won't be a problem and it will cost less than hiring a locksmith, or going through an insurance company.
When you visit the dealership you may want to ask about having a spare key made, especially when you don't have an actual key fob. The dealership will usually be able to duplicate an extra key for you, without having to change anything else in your car. If you decide to do this, make sure to keep the key in a location that is safe and secure so you can find it in the event that you lose it.
4. Contact the police
Not only does reporting your lost car keys to the police help you find the keys however, it can also help protect you from thieves. If someone steals your vehicle without permission, they may be subject to fines for driving it on public roads or private property. If you report the keys missing before the person makes off with your vehicle, you'll be aware that there's a legal paper trail of when it was missing and who reported it.
Losing car keys is a common occurrence however it doesn't have to be to be a disaster. You can replace your car key quickly and easily if you call the right people. You can also avoid the possibility of losing keys in the future by following the guidelines that are provided in this article.
Take a step back. This will allow you to remember where you might have lost your key. For example, if you were driving home from work, and then went to get food at the restaurant, you may be able to recall the keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you're unable to locate the key, it may be in the bag you carried things around or on the table where you sat down to eat.
Posting your lost key online is a great idea. This will increase your chances of finding the culprit by reaching a wider audience. You can also inquire with local businesses and other bulletin boards.
It is essential to write down the VIN of your vehicle prior to when you begin searching for your keys. This information is needed to replace your keys, therefore it's important to keep it safe. You can usually find the VIN on your driver's licence, but it's also sometimes printed on your insurance card or in the owner's manual for your vehicle.
Contact lost key car when you've exhausted all other options. They'll be able to provide you with temporary replacements for your car, and they can also prepare a police report that could come in handy in the event that keys are discovered.