How to Replace Lost Car Keys
It's a nightmare to lose your car keys. This wasn't an issue until recently but as cars get more technologically advanced, it's becoming more difficult.
Sometimes, keys are lost due to the fact that you've reached into your pocket to find something else and accidentally thrown them away somewhere. You can avoid such situations by keeping a spare key at home.
1. Call a Locksmith
There's no denying that losing your car keys can be a huge hassle. But, there's also no need to be in a panic. If you know what to do and who to call to get your car keys replaced should be a matter of a few steps.
One of the first things to do is try and go back to where you started. It might appear obvious but it's hard to do if you are in a rush or concerned about losing your car keys. Make sure you check all your pockets, bags and the space around your vehicle.
If you're unable to find your car keys, it's time to call locksmith. Typically, locksmiths will be capable of creating a new key for your vehicle much more quickly than a dealership. They can even do it for less than the dealership would cost.
Some dealerships are able to create replacement keys, but might not be able to do it immediately or at any point. They usually have a high volume of customers, therefore they might not be able to accommodate immediately. In addition, they may not be able create an exact copy of your key.
You can also purchase an online replacement key. You can find these on Amazon and other places at a much lower cost than what the price you buy from a dealer, although they may not be able to cut them and program them for your specific car model.
Certain insurance policies cover the cost to replace a stolen or lost vehicle key. It's a good idea to check your insurance policy to determine whether it covers the cost of replacing a car key. Remember that you'll have to prove ownership and identification to the company or individual who creates the replacement key. This is required by law. It could be expensive if you're not able to provide proof of ownership.
2. Call the Dealership
It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys wasn't an issue. It was easy to get a replacement key from the dealership, and it didn't cost too much to do it. However, as cars become more advanced in technology - and the keys getting more expensive to replace - this isn't as easy as it was in the past. If you lose your keys today it's not uncommon to pay hundreds of dollars to get them replaced.
You need to act calmly in the event that you've lost your car keys. This will help you think clearly and make the right decision. If you have lost your original keys, you should have an extra set of keys in your purse or in your car trunk. This will ensure that you are not in financial trouble. Also, see if the key replacement is covered under your warranty or car insurance which could help you save some money in the event of a financial crisis.
The next step is to do an exhaustive search of your home, car and wallet or purse for keys that have gone missing. You could also retrace the steps you followed, and remember the last time you had your keys and where you were when you lost them. This could help you figure out where they went, which can be an immense relief.
Once you've done an exhaustive search but are unable to locate your car keys, the next option is to contact your dealer. Dealerships know your vehicle and can supply you with a replacement key. They're often busy and can't accommodate people with short notice. This could make the process difficult.
If you can get a hold of your dealer they'll be able to create an original key for you using the VIN number on file. They can also reprogram your immobilizer system which is required to start your vehicle. Locksmiths are a good option if you want a quick, reliable solution without having to wait in the dealership.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys was not a problem. You could contact a locksmith to drive to your location and duplicate your key for a reasonable price. However, as cars have become more technologically advanced, so have keys, and now they're more expensive to replace than ever before.
Based on the type of car you drive and year replacing a lost or damaged key could be a lengthy process and cost hundreds of dollars. It's always a good idea to have an extra set of car keys on hand. This is especially important in the case of a dangerous area or in a place with an extremely high rate of theft.
It might seem like a waste of time to contact your insurance company, but it can save you money over the course of time. Some policies will cover the cost of replacing a car key, so be sure to check with your insurance provider before you lose one and you find yourself in need.
Another thing to think about is whether your insurance policy provides roadside assistance. If lost car key replacement does, the insurance company might send someone out to help you in your circumstance and it could be less stressful than dealing with a locksmith or dealership.
Be sure to thoroughly search your car before you call your insurance provider. If lost car key replacement believe they're in the car, check in the trunk and underneath the seat. If you're at home check the pockets of the clothes you were wearing and in other places where you may be prone to putting them. You should also check the places where you may have left them, like your purse or desk.
Contact lost car keys for replacement of the keys after you've tried to find them. This isn't a problem, and it's cheaper than calling a locksmith or visiting the insurance company.
Ask the dealer to make an extra key for you, particularly in the event that your car doesn't have a remote. Usually the dealership will be able to make an extra key for you, without changing anything else inside your car. If you choose to do this, be sure to keep the key in a safe and secure place to locate it the when you lose it.
4. Call the police
Notifying your car keys that you lost can help you find the keys and keep you safe. If someone drives your vehicle on public streets or private property without permission, the person could be charged with a fine. If you report your keys missing prior to the person making off with your vehicle, you'll be aware that you have an official paper trail of when the car went missing and who reported it.
It's common to lose your car keys, however it doesn't need to be a disaster. You can obtain a replacement car key quickly and easily if make contact with the right people. If you follow the suggestions in this article, you'll be able to prevent any future key loss!
First, try to retrace your steps. This will help you to recall where you may have lost your key. For example, if you were returning home from work and then went out to eat at an eatery, you might be able to recall that keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you can't locate your key, you could have put it in the bag that you used to carry around things or on the table you dined at.
Posting your lost key online is another good idea. This will reach a large audience and increase your chances of finding it. You can also search local businesses and community bulletin boards.
Before you begin searching for your keys, be sure to note down the VIN number of your vehicle. This information is needed to replace your keys, which is why it's important to keep it in a safe place. The VIN is typically located on your driver's license but it's also on your insurance card and in your car's owner's manual.
If you've exhausted all other options and have exhausted all other options, it's time to contact the police. They'll be in a position to provide you with an interim replacement for your vehicle and also file a report that will come in handy should the keys ever be discovered.