How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Things tend to get lost in the chaos of bringing kids to and from school, running errands, and working. Car keys are among of the most commonly lost items.

In the past, this wasn't an issue because you could easily replace it at your local hardware store or locksmith. This is not the case anymore.

1. Contact Your Car Dealership

If you have lost your car key, the first place you should call is your car dealer. The majority of dealers keep a record of every key that they have made for their vehicles, which means they are likely to be able find your key. The downside is that visiting the dealership can be costly so it's crucial to shop around. You might be able find a cheaper solution by using an auto locksmith.

In the majority of instances, you'll need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and evidence of ownership, like an original registration or title, in order to get an alternative key from the dealership. The dealership will then purchase the new key and then pair it with your vehicle. The dealer will need to complete this lengthy process.

Many vehicles today have the special kind of key called a smart key. These keys are designed for a proximity sensor to be activated within the car, which allows keyless entry and start. They are usually paired with push-to-start ignitions. Dealers will offer you a smart key, but it's costly. A local auto locksmith can design the smart key for a fraction of what you would buy from the dealership.

You can also get a traditional key replacement at your local hardware store. They will be able to create a standard key that is compatible with the lock cylinder in your car. They will need to know the year of manufacture of your vehicle and the VIN. If you can't locate the VIN it's usually stamped on a metal plaque located on the driver's side doorpost or the dashboard. Even if you don't have the original key, most automotive locksmiths can offer an alternative car key. However, in certain instances they might need to remove the door lock and Motor ignition to accomplish this. This isn't a risky job for a professional, however it will require some mechanical skills and knowledge.

2. Contact a Locksmith

Misplacing your car keys is one of the most frequent reasons for roadside assistance and calls. It's essential to keep a spare key with your person and ensure that it's somewhere safe. Even the most careful of people can lose their keys. You should check for the car key and notify your insurance company immediately if you discover it. This will reduce the likelihood of your claim being rejected later should your key be found stolen.

Contacting a locksmith is the best option if you don't own a spare. Locksmiths are usually able to provide a replacement key for less than the dealership would charge. They will usually visit your location and create the key on the spot and is more efficient than having to take your vehicle back to the dealership.

The type of car key you have can affect the cost of replacing it. The most affordable keys are the traditional keys that can be bought at most hardware stores. They cost about $10 per key. If your car comes with a key fob that can be used as a remote to lock and start the vehicle, or a smart-key, which can only be replaced at a dealership, the price of these keys is typically more expensive than the standard one.

In the majority of cases, an automotive locksmith can replace lost keys keys fobs or a smart key as long as they have the VIN number for your car, which is typically found on a metal plate on the driver's side of the doorpost or stamped into the windshield of the car. They will need proof of ownership, like your registration or title.

Some locksmiths aren't licensed or insured, so be sure to research them before hiring. You can find reputable auto locksmiths by looking online or asking your family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using unauthorized keys to start the car can result in a breach of the warranty on your vehicle. A key that is not authorized could damage the lock of your vehicle. If you do not want to take this risk you should consider to contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith, and wait for a replacement key from the dealer.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

One of the worst things you could do when you lose your car key is to panic. Take a deep breath and then try to reason your situation. It is more likely you lost your keys rather than they were stolen. So, the next step is to go back your steps and determine the location where they were lost. It's a good idea to check places you don't normally check such as the pockets of your pants, coat or a bag that you use to run in. After you've checked these places, you should call your insurance provider.

Modern cars are fitted with electronic keys which communicate with your car via a chip. This communication lets the car recognize the key fob and unlock the doors, as well as start the engine. It is essential to immediately report the loss of your keys immediately to prevent anyone who is not authorized from utilizing your vehicle.

Certain car insurance companies offer an insurance add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. Contact your insurance provider to see if this type of insurance is offered or if a locksmith can cover the cost.

You can usually get a replacement for a mechanical key in many hardware stores for a fair price. If your car has an electronic key that connects to your car via the chip, you will need to visit your dealership to obtain an replacement. It's not cheap, but it is much cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.

Making an insurance claim because of a stolen car key can increase your insurance rates. This is because the insurance company will consider you to be a high-risk driver for losing your car keys and could increase your premiums to offset the cost of paying out the claim. Fortunately, you can avoid the extra expenses by purchasing a device to track your lost car keys or having a locksmith make a new key without cloning the original.

4. Contact a Tow Truck

It's the most frustrating thing to lose your car keys, and nobody would want it to happen. If it does happen, it can be expensive to replace the key and get back on the road. This is why it's important to be prepared in case it does, so you can avoid having to call a tow truck, and keep your money in your wallet.

If you've lost your car keys, the first thing to do is trace your steps. This will help you figure out exactly where they are and can aid in calming your panic. You might remember doing something in the grocery store or putting your keys on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you determine where you should start.

If you cannot find your keys, search in places where you could have put them, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or the bag you carried them in to take them home. If you're still unable to locate them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.

A key tracker with bluetooth can be utilized on your phone. These are small devices that can attach to a keyring and an app for your smartphone will display the location of your keys.

The cost of replacing a i lost the key to my car car key can be a bit expensive depending on the type of key that you own. If you own a traditional key an automotive locksmith will usually make a new one in a matter of minutes without the original, motor which will save you some money. However, if you own an electronic key that relies on a proximity sensor to open the door or start the engine, you'll have to visit the dealer to purchase a new one.

It is essential to have a plan in place for when you lose your car keys so that you will not have the hassle of having to pay for the tow truck or locksmith. It's easy to forget your car keys when you're tired after a long day, or when your mind is on other things. However, by following these steps, you can make sure that your keys won't vanish for ever and have a backup plan for the event that they do.