How to Replace Lost Car Keys
It's an absolute nightmare to lose your car keys. It was not a problem until recent times but as cars get more technologically advanced, it is becoming more difficult.
Most of the time, you lose your keys because you've reached inside your pocket to find something else and have accidentally dropped them off somewhere. You can prevent this from happening by keeping an extra key at home.
1. Contact a locksmith
Losing your car keys is an extremely frustrating experience. However, there's no need to be in a panic. If you know who to contact and what to do, it should only take just a few steps to have your car keys replaced.
It is recommended to try retracing the steps you did. This may seem like a simple task, but sometimes it isn't easy to do when you're in a hurry or you're already worried about the loss of your car keys. Examine all pockets, bags, and the area around your vehicle.
If you've been unable to locate your car keys, it's time to contact an locksmith. Locksmiths are typically capable of creating an entirely new key for your vehicle faster than the dealership. In addition, they will usually do it for a lot cheaper than the dealership will charge you.
Some dealers are able to create replacement keys, but may not be able do it immediately or at any time. They typically have a large number of customers so they may not be able to accommodate immediately. They may not also be able to create a exact copy of the existing key.
Another option is to buy a replacement car key online. Keys can be purchased on Amazon and elsewhere at a lower cost than you'd pay an auto dealer. However, they might not have the ability to cut and program keys that are specific to your car model.
Some insurance policies also cover the cost of replacing a lost or stolen car key. It's worth checking to see whether you have insurance which will help pay for the cost of purchasing an additional key for your vehicle. Be aware that you'll have to prove ownership and proof of identity to the company or individual who makes the replacement key. This is required by law. It could be expensive if you are not able to prove ownership.
2. Contact the Dealership
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car was not an issue. It wasn't expensive to get an alternative key from a dealer. This is not the case anymore, as cars are more advanced and keys are more expensive. If you lose your keys today it's not uncommon to pay several hundred dollars to have them replaced.
If you've lost your car keys the first thing you must do is be calm. This will allow you to think clearly and make the best decision about how to solve the problem. Also, make sure that you have a backup set of keys in your pocket or in the trunk of your car, so that if you do lose the original keys and you lose them, you won't lose any money. Find out whether your insurance or warranty covers the cost of a key replacement. This could help you save money in an emergency.
Next, search your vehicle, your home and purse, or your wallet for keys missing. You could also retrace the steps you followed, and remember when you last held your keys and where you were at the time you lost them. This can help you figure the location of your lost items, which is a huge relief.
Call your dealership if you haven't found your keys after a thorough search. Dealerships know your vehicle and can supply you with keys to replace. They're often busy and cannot accommodate people with short notice. This could make the process difficult.
If you're able to contact the dealership you're dealing with they'll be able to create a new key for you using the VIN number on the file. They can also reprogram your immobilizer system which is required to start your car. But if you're looking for an immediate, reliable solution that doesn't require waiting at the dealership, a locksmith may be a better choice.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Not so long ago, misplacing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could call an locksmith to come to your place of residence and duplicate your keys for a reasonable price. As cars have become more technologically advanced, the keys are also becoming more expensive.
Depending on the type of vehicle and year the replacement of a lost key could be a lengthy process and cost hundreds of dollars. It's always a smart idea to have an extra set of car keys in your pocket. This is particularly true in the case of a dangerous area or in a place with an extremely high rate of theft.
While it might seem like an unnecessary effort to contact your insurance company, doing so can save you money in the long run. Talk to your agent to see whether you are able to get an alternative car key that is that is covered by your policy.
If your insurance policy provides roadside assistance, you should think about this. If you have roadside assistance, a person might be able to help you. This is a much less stressful option than dealing with a dealership or locksmith.
Make sure you thoroughly search your vehicle before you contact your insurance company. If you believe they're in the car, try looking in the trunk and under the seat. Examine the pockets of your clothes and other places where you have been accustomed to putting them. Double-check any places you may have left them. For example, your purse or in a messy office.
Contact your dealer to replace the keys after you've tried to locate them. In most cases this shouldn't be a problem and is much less expensive than hiring a locksmith, or going through an insurance company.
When you visit the dealership you may want to ask about having a spare key made, particularly if you don't have an actual key fob. The dealership will usually be able to duplicate an extra key for you without needing to alter any other part of your car. If you do this, make sure you keep the key in an area that is secure and safe so that you can retrieve it again if you lose it.
4. Call the police
Not only will reporting your lost car keys to the police help you find the keys however, it can also help keep you safe from thieves. If someone drives your car on public roads or on private property without permission, the person could be charged with a fine. If you report your keys lost before the person gets away with your vehicle, 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 have to be a catastrophe. You can get a replacement car key quickly and easily if you contact the right people. If you follow the tips in this article, you'll even be able to avoid the possibility of losing your key again!
First, try to retrace your steps. replace lost car key will help you to recall where you may have lost your key. For instance, if you were returning home from work and then went to get food at the restaurant, you may be able to remember that keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you are unable to locate the key, it may be in the bag you carried things around or on the table where you sat down to eat.
Posting your key online is a great idea. This will be seen by a large audience and increase the likelihood of finding it. You can also check with local businesses and other bulletin boards.
It's crucial to note down the VIN of your vehicle prior to when you start searching for your keys. You'll require this information to replace your keys It's crucial to keep it safe. You'll usually find the VIN on your driver's licence, but it's also sometimes printed on your insurance card or in the owner's manual of your vehicle.
Once you've exhausted all other options then it's time to call the police. They'll be in a position to provide you with a temporary replacement for your car, and they can also make a report that could help in the event that keys are discovered.