How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Things tend to get lost car keys with no spare in the rush of getting kids to and from school, running errands, and working. Our car keys are one of the most commonly lost items.

In the past you could easily change this at your local locksmith or hardware store. However, nowadays, it isn't as easy.

1. Call Your Car Dealership

If you've lost your car keys, the first place you should call is your car dealer. Most car dealers keep track of every key made for their vehicles, therefore it should be simple for How to Replace Lost Car Keys them to track down yours. It can be costly to visit a dealership, so you should research. You may be able find a cheaper option by using an auto locksmith.

In most cases, you will need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and evidence of ownership, such as an original title or registration, to get a replacement key from the dealer. The dealership will then order a new key and pair it with your vehicle. This could be a long process, and you'll have to wait for the dealer to complete the job.

Smart keys are a kind of key used in a lot of automobiles today. They are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, which allows for keyless entry and start. They are typically used in conjunction with ignitions that are push-to-start. You can purchase a new smart key from a dealership, but the cost is a bit high. Local auto locksmiths can give you a smart key for only a fraction of the cost.

You can also get a traditional key replacement at your local hardware store. They can make you a standard key that is compatible with the lock cylinder in your car. They will need the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you are unable to locate the VIN on your car, it will be stamped on a plaque made of metal that is located on the dashboard or driver's doorpost. Even if you don't have the original, many locksmiths in the automotive industry can offer an alternate car key. However, in some cases they might need to take apart the ignition and door locks to do so. It's not a risky job, but it requires some mechanical knowledge.

2. Call a locksmith

Losing your car keys is among of the most common reasons for roadside assistance and calls. It's important to keep a spare key on you and ensure it's safe. However even the most vigilant people may lose their car keys. It is important to thoroughly search for the key and notify your insurance company as soon as you can to minimize the chances of getting denied a claim in the event that it is found later stolen.

If you don't have a spare key, your next best option is to contact a locksmith. Locksmiths usually can provide a key replacement at less than what a dealership would charge. They can also come to your location to make the key on the spot which is much more convenient than having your vehicle taken back to the dealer.

The type of car key you have could affect the cost to replace it. Keys that are traditional, which can be replaced at the majority of hardware stores for around $10 each, are the most affordable. If your car has a key fob, which acts like a remote and allows you to open and start the engine, or a smart key, that can only be replaced by dealers, these keys will usually cost more than the traditional key.

A locksmith can replace a smart key or key fob in most cases as long they have the VIN number for your vehicle. It is usually located on the metal plate on the driver's doorpost, or on the windshield. They will also require evidence that you have ownership of the vehicle by providing a copy of your registration or title.

You should always do your homework prior to hiring locksmith. You can find qualified auto locksmiths by looking online or asking friends and family for suggestions. Be aware that using unauthorized keys to start the car can cause a violation of your vehicle's warranty. A key that is not authorized could cause damage to the lock on your car. If you don't want to risk it then contact roadside assistance instead of a car locksmith and wait until the dealer provides a replacement key.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

One of the worst things you can do when you lose your car key is to panic. Relax, and then try to think about your situation. It is more likely you lost your keys than they were stolen. The next step is to trace your steps and determine where they went missing. It might help to look around in places that you wouldn't usually check like pockets on your pants or coat, or in a bag you carry around when you run. Once you've checked all these places, it's a good idea to call your insurance company.

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys which communicate with your vehicle via chips. This communication process allows the vehicle to recognize the key fob, unlock the doors, and also start the engine. It is essential to immediately report the loss of your key immediately to stop unauthorized persons from utilizing your vehicle.

Certain car insurance companies offer an add-on to their policies that will cover the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. It's worth talking to your insurance provider to determine whether they have this type of insurance or if you can locate an individual locksmith who will pay for the cost.

It is possible to replace the mechanical key at most hardware stores for a fair price. However, if your vehicle is equipped with an electronic key fob that is connected to your car via the chip, you'll need to visit your dealer for an upgrade. It can be costly however it's much cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.

In addition to the expense of replacing your car key and submitting an insurance claim to replace a lost key can cause your car insurance rates to increase. This is because your insurance provider will consider you a high-risk driver for losing your car keys, and may raise your premiums to offset the cost of settling the claim. You can reduce these expenses by purchasing a device that tracks your lost key to track your lost keys or having a professional locksmith create an original key without copying the old key.

4. Call a Tow Truck

Everyone would hate to lose their car keys. It's the worst scenario that could occur. If it does happen, it can be expensive to replace the key and get back on the road. That's why it's best to be prepared if it does, so you don't have to call a tow truck and keep your money in your wallet.

When you've lost your car keys, the first thing to do is trace your steps. This will help you find them and calm your panic. Make a list of the actions you took prior to losing your keys, for example, grabbing something at the supermarket or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you pinpoint your place of origin.

If you can't find your keys, look around where they might be like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing or the bag you put them in when you got home. If you still can't find them, give yourself some time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.

Another alternative is to utilize a bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are small devices you can attach to a keyring, and an app on your smartphone will provide you with the whereabouts of your keys.

The cost of replacing lost car key can be a bit expensive depending on the type of key you have. You can save money in the case of a traditional car key. A locksmith for automotive will typically be capable of making a replacement on the spot, without the original. If you are using a smart-key that utilizes proximity sensors to open the doors or turn on the engine of your vehicle then you'll need go to the dealer to get a replacement.

It's important to have a plan in place in case you lose your car keys, so you will not have the hassle of having to pay for an tow truck or locksmith. If you're exhausted or distracted, it's easy to lose your keys to your car. By following these guidelines, you can make sure that your keys don't disappear forever, and you'll have backup plans in case they do.