How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Things can get lost in the hustle of getting kids to and from school, running errands, and working. One of the most common things that get lost is our car keys.

In the past, this wasn't an issue since you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. Nowadays, that is not as easy.

1. Call Your Car Dealership

If you've lost your car key The first place to contact is your local car dealer. Most car dealers keep track of every key that is made for their vehicles making it easy for them to find your keys. The drawback is that visiting the dealership can be expensive, so it's important to shop around. You may be able to find a cheaper option by using an auto locksmith.

In most instances, you'll need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, like a copy of your registration or title, to obtain a replacement key from the dealer. 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 cars today come with the special kind of key called a smart key. They are designed to work with a proximity sensor that can be activated within the car, which allows keyless entry and starting. They are usually paired with ignitions that have a push-to-start feature. The dealer can sell you a smart key, however, it's expensive. A local auto locksmith can create a smart key for you for a fraction of what you would purchase from a dealership.

You can also purchase an old-fashioned key replacement at your local hardware store. They can make you a standard lock cylinder key. They'll need to know the year of manufacture of your car and also the VIN. If you are unable to locate the VIN, it is usually stamped on a metal plaque located on the driver's side doorpost or the dashboard. Even if you do not have the original, many locksmiths for automotive can provide you with an alternate car key. In some instances, they may need to remove the door and ignition to do so. This isn't a risky job for a professional, but it will require some mechanical skills and knowledge.

2. Call a Locksmith

Losing keys to your car is one of the most common causes for roadside assistance and calls. Keep an extra car key in your bag and store it safely. Even the most cautious of people may lose their keys. You should check for the car key and notify your insurance company immediately if you find it. This will reduce the chance of your claim being denied later in the event that your key is stolen.

If you don't have a spare key, the best option is to contact a locksmith. A locksmith can generally offer a replacement key for less than what the dealership would charge. They may also come to your location to make keys right there which is much more convenient than having your vehicle taken back to the dealer.

The cost of replacing your car keys will differ based on the type you own. Keys that are traditional that can be exchanged at the majority of hardware stores for around $10 each, are the most affordable. If your car is equipped with the key fob, which functions as a remote and can unlock and start the engine or a smart key that can only be replaced by dealers, these keys will usually cost more than a traditional key.

In the majority of cases, an automotive locksmith will be able to replace keys fobs or a smart key as long as they can get the VIN number for your car that is usually found on a metal plate that is placed on the driver's side of the doorpost or in the windshield of the car. They will also need proof that you own the car and have the registration or title.

Some locksmiths are not licensed or insured, so make sure to research them before hiring. You can find auto-locksmiths who are certified by searching on the internet, or asking family and friends for suggestions. Be aware that using an unlicensed key to start your vehicle could cause a breach of warranty. The use of a key that is not authentic could cause damage to the lock of your car. If you aren't willing to risk it is a good idea to contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith, and wait for your replacement key from the dealer.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

Panic is one of the worst reactions you can be experiencing when you lose your keys. Take a deep breath and then try to think about your situation. It is more likely that you lost your keys rather than they were stolen. The next step is to go back your steps and figure out the place they went missing. It might help to check places you would not normally check for items, like pockets on your coat or pants or in the bag you use for running. After you'I Ve Lost My Car Keys What Can I Do looked through all these places it's a good idea to call your insurance company.

Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate via chips with the car. This process of communication allows the vehicle to recognize the key fob, unlock the doors, and also start the engine. If you lose your keys it is important to report it immediately to ensure that people who are not authorized can't enter your car and use it.

Certain insurance companies provide an additional benefit to their policies that will cover the cost of a replacement key for your car keys lost no spare. It is worth contacting your insurance provider to determine whether they have this type of protection or if you can find an individual locksmith that can cover the cost.

If your car is equipped with an ordinary mechanical key, you can typically get it replaced at any hardware store at a cost of a small amount. If, i Ve lost my car keys what can i do however, your car has an electronic key fob that is linked to your vehicle via the chip, you'll need to visit your dealer for the replacement. It can be costly but it's also cheaper than hiring a locksmith.

In addition to the expense of replacing your car key and submitting an insurance claim for a stolen key could cause your car insurance rates to increase. Your insurance company may increase your premiums as they'll consider you to be a high-risk motorist for losing your key. You can reduce these expenses by purchasing a tracking device that will locate your lost key or hiring a professional locksmith to design keys without copying the original one.

4. Call a Tow Truck

It's the most frustrating thing to lose your car keys and no one wants it to happen. If it does happen it can be expensive to replace the lost key and get you back on the road. It is important to be prepared so that you don't have call a tow truck and save your money.

Follow your steps if you've lost your keys. This will help you find them and calm your panic. Try to recall what you did prior to losing your keys, such as grabbing something at the supermarket or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you to determine where you should start.

If you cannot find your keys, search in places where you may have placed them, such as the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or in the bag that you used to carry them to home. If you're still unable to locate them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.

Another alternative is to use the bluetooth key tracker app on your phone. These are tiny devices that can be attached to your keyring, and also have an app on your phone to show you where your keys are so you don't need to look through every pocket or drawer within your home.

The cost to replace a car key that is lost may vary depending on what kind of key you have. If you own a traditional key an automotive locksmith will generally make a new key immediately without the original one, which can save you money. However, if you own an electronic key that utilizes the proximity sensor to open the door or turn on the engine, you'll have to go to the dealership to purchase a new one.

You must have a plan for when you lose your keys. This will spare you the expense of a tow-truck or locksmith. When you're tired or distracted, it's easy to lose your car keys. But by following these tips to ensure your keys don't disappear forever and I ve lost my car Keys what can i do have a backup plan when they do.