How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Losing car keys is a major headache. Not long ago it wasn't a big 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 pocket to get something other. Having an extra key at home will help you avoid these situations.
1. Call a Locksmith
It's a fact that losing your car keys can be a major hassle. It's not a reason to panic. As long as you know who to contact and what to do you should only need to take just a few steps to have your keys to your car replaced.
It is recommended to try retracing the steps you made. It may seem obvious but it's hard to do if you are in a rush or concerned about losing your car keys. Be sure to look in all of your pockets and bags in which you may have put them down, as well as the surrounding area around your vehicle.
If you've been unable to locate your car keys, you need to call locksmith. Locksmiths are able to create a key for your car quicker than a dealership. In addition, they will usually do it for a lot cheaper than the dealership will charge you.
Some dealerships can create keys for replacement to cars however they might not be able do it for you in a hurry or even at all. They typically have a high volume of customers, therefore they might not be able to assist your request right away. They may also not be able to create a exact copy of your current key.
You can also purchase an online replacement key. You can find them on Amazon and other websites at a much lower cost than what the price you pay at a dealer, however, they might not be able to cut them and program them to your specific car model.
Some insurance policies cover the cost to replace a stolen or lost vehicle key. It's worth checking your insurance policy to determine if it will cover the cost of a new car key. Remember to prove ownership to the person or business who creates your replacement key. This is required by law. It could be costly if you are unable to prove ownership.
2. Contact the Dealership
It wasn't long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car was not an issue. You could easily get an alternative key from a dealership, and it wasn't too much to get it done. However, as cars become more advanced in technology and keys becoming more expensive to replace - this isn't as easy as it used to be. It's not unusual to pay several hundred dollars for a new set of keys when you lose them.
If you've lost your car keys the first thing you should do is to act in a calm manner. This will allow you to think clearly and make the right decision. Also, make sure that you have a backup set keys somewhere, like in your pocket or in the trunk of your car, in case you lose the original keys and you lose them, you won't lose any money at all. Check to see whether your insurance or warranty covers the cost of replacing a key. This could help you save money in an emergency.
The next step is to conduct an exhaustive search of your home, car and your wallet or purse for keys that are missing. You can also try to retrace your steps, recollecting the last place you had keys and where you were when you lost them. This could help you figure out the location they went to and could be an enormous relief.
Contact your dealer if you haven't found your keys after an exhaustive search. Dealerships are familiar with the vehicle they are servicing and can give you an alternative key. They're often busy and can't accommodate people who have a short notice. This can make the process frustrating.
If you are able to contact the dealership you're dealing with they'll be able create a new key for you based on the VIN number on file. They can also reprogram your immobilizer system, which is necessary to start your car. Locksmiths are a good option if you want a quick and reliable solution, without having to wait in the dealership.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
It wasn't long ago that losing your keys to cars was not a problem. You could get a locksmith to travel to your location and duplicate your key for a reasonable fee. As cars have become more technologically advanced, keys are also becoming more expensive.
Based on the type of vehicle and the year The process for replacing a lost car key can require several steps and can cost you hundreds of dollars. It's always a smart idea to keep an additional set of keys for your car in your pocket. This is especially important if you live near an area of danger or an area with a high rate of theft.
It may seem like a waste to contact your insurance company however it could save you money over the course of time. Some policies will cover the cost of replacing a car key, so make sure to speak with your insurance agent before you lose a key and you find yourself in need.
Another thing to consider is whether your policy includes roadside assistance. If you have roadside assistance, someone may come to your aid. This is a much less stressful option than dealing with a dealer or locksmith.
Before you call your insurance company, be sure to search thoroughly for your keys. If you think they're in the car, search inside the trunk and beneath the seat. If you're at home, check the pockets of the clothes you were wearing and in other places you might have a habit of putting them. Double-check any places you may have left them. For instance, your purse or an unorganized office.
Once you've done your best to find the car keys It's recommended to contact your dealer to have them replaced. Usually this shouldn't be a problem and will be much cheaper than hiring a locksmith or going through an insurance company.
Ask the dealer to make an extra key for you, especially when your car doesn't come with an remote. Usually the dealership will be able to make a spare for you without changing anything else inside your car. If you choose to do this, be sure you keep the spare key in a safe and secure place to find it next time you lose it.
4. Call the police
Not only does reporting your lost car keys to the police help you locate the keys however, it can also help protect you from thieves. If someone drives your car on public streets or private property without permission, the person could be charged with a fine. If you report your keys lost 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 not uncommon to lose your car keys, but it does not have to be a major issue. You can obtain a replacement car key quickly and easily if you make contact with the right people. You can even prevent the possibility of losing keys in the future by following the suggestions given in this article.
First, try to retrace your steps. This will help you to recall where you may have lost your keys. For example, if you were returning 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 can't locate your key, you could have left it in the bag that you used to carry around things or at the table that you ate at.
Posting your lost key online is another good idea. This will reach a wide audience and increase the chances of finding it. You can also inquire with local businesses as well as other community bulletin boards.
Before car keys lost start looking for your keys, it's important to note down the VIN number of your vehicle. You'll need this information to replace your keys It's crucial to keep it somewhere safe. You can usually find the VIN on your driver's license, but it may also appear on your insurance card or in the owner's manual of your car.
Once you've exhausted all other options, it's time to call the police. You can obtain a temporary replacement car from the police department, and they will also file reports that are useful if your keys are ever recovered.