How to Replace Lost Car Keys
The loss of car keys is a major headache. In the past, this was not a big issue, but it's becoming more complicated as cars become technologically advanced.
Often you lose your keys because you've reached inside your pockets for something else and accidentally dropped them off somewhere. A spare key in your house will help you avoid these situations.
1. Contact a locksmith
There's no doubt that losing your car keys can be a major hassle. But, there's no need to panic. If you know what to do and who to contact to get your car keys replaced will only take a couple of steps.
You should try to retrace the steps you made. This might sound like a straightforward step but it can be difficult when you're in a hurry or are already panicking over the loss of your car keys. Check all your pockets, bags and the area around your vehicle.
Contact a locksmith if cannot locate your car keys. Locksmiths are able to create keys for your vehicle much faster than the dealership. They can even do it for less than the dealership would cost.
Some dealerships are able to create keys for cars that are replacements but they might not be able to do it for you immediately or at all. There are many dealerships that have a high volume of clients which means they may not be able to help your request immediately. Additionally, they might not be able to create an exact copy of your current key.
Another option is to purchase a replacement car key online. They are available on Amazon and other places for a lot less than what you would buy from a dealer, however, they might not be able to cut or program them to your specific car model.
Certain insurance policies also cover the cost of replacing a stolen or lost car key. It's worth checking your insurance policy to see if it will cover the cost of a new car key. Be aware that you'll need provide proof of ownership to the person or business who is responsible for creating your replacement key. This is legally required. If you're unable to prove ownership, it can be quite costly.
2. Call the Dealership
Not too long ago the possibility of misplacing or losing - your car keys wasn't an issue. It was not expensive to purchase a new key from the dealer. However, as cars become more advanced in technology - and the keys getting more expensive to replace - this isn't as easy as it used to be. If you lose your keys today it's not unusual to spend several hundred dollars to have them replaced.
If you've lost your car keys first thing you should do is be calm. This will allow you to think clearly and make the right choice about how to resolve the problem. Also, make sure that you have a backup set keys somewhere, like in your pocket or the trunk of your car so that if you do lose the original keys, you won't be out any money. Also, find out if the replacement key is covered by your warranty or insurance for your car and can help you save some cash in the event of a need.
The next step is to search your car, your house or your purse your wallet for missing keys. You may try to trace your steps, recollecting the last place you had keys and the location you were in when you lost them. This can help you find the location of your lost items, which is a great relief.
Once you've done an exhaustive search but can't locate your car keys, the next step is to contact your dealership. Dealerships are familiar with your vehicle and can give you keys to replace. However, they're typically full and cannot accommodate people with short notice, which can make the process difficult.
If you can contact your dealer, they will be able create keys for you using the VIN number that is stored on their system. They can also reprogram the immobilizer system which is needed to start your car. 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 that long ago that losing keys to cars was not a big issue. You could get an locksmith to come to your location and duplicate your key at a reasonable cost. However, as cars have become more technologically advanced, so have the keys, and they're now more expensive to replace than ever before.
Depending on your vehicle type and year, replacing a lost key can be a long process and cost hundreds of dollars. That's why it's always an excellent idea to keep an extra set of keys on hand, especially if you reside in a neighborhood that is dangerous or an area where theft is a common occurrence.
It might seem like a waste of time to call your insurer but it can actually save you money over time. Certain policies will cover the cost of a brand new car key, so make sure to check with your insurance agent before you lose a key and you find yourself in need.
If your insurance policy provides roadside assistance, you should consider this. If it does, the company might send someone out to help you with your situation and it could be less stressful than dealing with a locksmith or a dealership.
Make sure you thoroughly search your vehicle before you call your insurance provider. If you think they're in your car, try looking in the trunk and under the seat. Check the pockets of your clothing and other places you might have gotten used to placing them. Check any places where you might have left them. For example, your purse or in a messy office.
Once you've done your best to locate your keys to your car It's a good idea to call your dealership to have them replaced. Most of the time it won't be a problem, and it will be much cheaper than hiring a locksmith or working through the insurance company.
While you're at the dealer it is possible to ask about having a spare key made, especially if you don't have an actual key fob. The dealership is usually able to create an additional key for you without having to alter any other part of your car. If you do this, make sure you keep the key in a place that is safe and secure to ensure you can locate it in the event that you lose it.
4. Contact the police
Not only will the act of reporting lost car keys to police help you locate keys, but it also helps keep you safe from thieves. If someone takes your vehicle without permission, they could be subject to fines for driving it on streets in the city or on private property. If you report your keys missing before the person gets away with your car, you'll know that you have an official paper trail of when the car went missing and who reported it.
Car keys are lost is a common problem but it doesn't need to be a disaster. If you contact the right people, you'll in a position to obtain an alternative key quickly and easily. If you follow the suggestions in this article, you'll be able to avoid future key misplacements!
Then, try retracing keys lost . This will help you recall where you may have lost your keys. For instance, if were driving home from work and then went to eat at an eatery, you might be able to recall that the keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you can't find the key, it may be in the bag you used to carry things around or on the table where you sat down to eat.
Another good idea is to share your primary loss online. This will be seen by a large audience and increase the likelihood of finding it. You can also search local businesses and community bulletin boards.
Before you begin looking for your keys, be sure to write down the VIN number of your vehicle. This information is needed to replace your keys, therefore it's important to keep it safe. You'll usually find the VIN on your driver's license, but it can also be found on your insurance card or in the owner's manual of your car.
If you've exhausted all other options then it's time to call the police. They'll be capable of providing you with temporary replacements for your vehicle and can prepare a police report that could be useful if the keys are ever found.