How to Replace Lost Car Keys
It's a nightmare to lose your car keys. This wasn't a problem until the last few years, but as cars become more technologically advanced, it is becoming more difficult.
Sometimes, keys are lost due to the fact that you've reached into your pockets for something else and accidentally thrown them away somewhere. A spare key at home can save you from such situations.
1. Contact an expert locksmith
The loss of your car keys can be an enormous inconvenience. But, there's also no need to panic. As long as you know who to contact and what to do it will only take just a few steps to have your keys replaced in your car.
One of the first things you need to do is try and retrace your steps. This may appear obvious however it can be difficult to do if are in a rush or worried about losing your car keys. Be sure to inspect all bags and pockets where you might have set them down, and also the area around your car.
If you've been unable to find your car keys, it's time to contact locksmith. Locksmiths are able to create keys for your vehicle faster than the dealership. Plus, they can usually complete the task for much less than what a dealership would charge you.
Some dealerships can create keys for replacement to cars however they might not be able to complete it in a hurry or even at all. There are many dealerships with a high volume of clients and therefore may not be able accommodate your request immediately. Additionally, they might not be able to create an exact replica of your current key.
Another option is to buy a replacement car key online. You can find these on Amazon and other places for a lot less than what the price you purchase from a dealer but they may not be able to cut them and program them to your specific car model.
Some insurance policies also cover the cost of replacing a stolen or lost car key. Therefore, it's worth checking if you have coverage that will cover the cost of getting a new key for your vehicle. Be aware that you'll need to provide proof of ownership and identification to the person or company who is responsible for the creation of the replacement key. This is required by law. If you're not able provide proof of ownership, it can be quite costly.
2. Contact the Dealership
It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could easily find keys replacements from the dealership, and it didn't cost much to do so. However, with cars getting more advanced in technology - and the keys getting more expensive to replace it's not as simple as it used to be. If you have lost your keys today, it's not unusual to spend several hundred dollars to have them replaced.
If you've lost your car keys, the first thing you must do is to act in a calm manner. This will allow you to think clearly and make the best decision on how to fix the problem. If you have lost your original keys, you should have a spare set of keys in your pocket or in your car trunk. This will ensure that you are not in a financial bind. Make sure to check whether your warranty or insurance covers the cost of a key replacement. This could save you money in an emergency.
The next step is to conduct thorough searches of your home, car, and your purse or wallet to find the missing keys. You could also retrace the steps you took, remembering when you last held your keys and where you were when you lost them. This can help you find out where they are which is a huge relief.
After you've conducted an exhaustive search but are unable to find your car keys, the next option is to contact your dealership. Dealerships are knowledgeable about your particular vehicle, which is why they're the best place to go for a new key. However, they're often busy and can't accommodate people on short notice, which could cause the process to be frustrating.
If you can contact your dealership they'll be able to create an original key for you in accordance with the VIN number on the file. They can also modify the immobilizer system which is needed to start your car. Locksmiths are an excellent choice if you want a quick and reliable solution, without having to wait in the dealership.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
It wasn't that long ago that losing car keys was not a big issue. A locksmith could come to your home and duplicate your keys at a reasonable price. As cars have become technologically advanced, keys have also become more expensive.
Depending on the type of vehicle and year, replacing a lost key can be a long procedure that could cost hundreds of dollars. That's why it's always a good idea to have an extra set of keys in your side, especially if you reside in a dangerous area or a place where theft is common.
While it may feel like an unnecessary effort to call your insurance company, it can save you money in the long run. Check with your agent to see if you can get a replacement car key insured by your policy.
If your insurance policy provides roadside assistance, you should consider this. If it does, the insurance company might send a person out to assist you in your circumstance which could be less stressful than dealing with a locksmith or a dealership.
Before you call your insurance company, make sure to search thoroughly for your keys. If you think they're in your car, try looking in the trunk and under the seat. If you're at home, look in the pockets of the clothes you were wearing as well as in other places where you may be prone to putting them. Double-check any places you may have left them. For instance, your purse or in a messy office.
If you've managed to find the keys to your car it's a good idea to call your dealership to have them replaced. This isn't an issue, and it's cheaper than calling an locksmith or calling the insurance company.
Ask the dealer to make an extra key for you, particularly if your car doesn't have a remote. Your dealership can usually clone an additional key for you without having to alter anything else in your vehicle. If you decide to do this, make sure you keep the key in an area that is secure and safe so you can find it again if you lose it.
4. Contact the police
Not only does the act of reporting lost car keys to police help you locate the keys however, it can also help protect you from thieves. If someone takes your vehicle without permission, they could be fined when they drive it on city streets or private property. lost car key and no spare can protect yourself by reporting keys stolen prior to someone stealing your vehicle. This leaves a trace on paper that shows who and when they reported the theft.
It's not uncommon to lose your car keys, but it doesn't need to be a disaster. If you contact the right people, you'll capable of obtaining a replacement key quickly and quickly. You can even prevent future key misplacements by following the guidelines provided in this article.
First, try to retrace your steps. This will allow you to remember where you might have lost your keys. If you were driving to work, then stopped at a restaurant to purchase food and drinks, you might remember that your keys were in your pockets as you left the vehicle. If you are unable to locate the key, it may be in the bag you used to carry things around or on the table at which you sat down to eat.
Another good idea is to publish your most important loss online. This increases the chances of finding the key by reaching a wider audience. You can also look up local businesses and bulletin boards in the community.
Before you begin searching for your keys, be sure to write down the VIN number of your vehicle. You'll need this information to replace your key It's crucial to keep it somewhere safe. The VIN is typically found on your driver's license, but can also be found on your insurance card and in your car's owner's manual.
Contact the police after you've exhausted other options. They'll be capable of providing 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.