How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Car keys are lost is a nightmare. It wasn't that long ago, this wasn't a huge problem, but it's now becoming more complicated as cars get technologically advanced.
You could lose your keys when you accidentally knock them off the table while reaching into your pockets to grab something else. Having an extra key at home can save you from such situations.
1. Contact a locksmith
There's no denying that losing your car keys can be a major hassle. There's no reason to panic. If you know what to do and who to call, getting your car keys changed should be a matter of a few steps.
It is recommended to try retracing the steps you did. It may appear obvious however it can be difficult to accomplish if you are stressed or concerned about losing your car keys. Be sure to inspect all of your bags and pockets where you might have set them down, as well as the space around your car.
If you've been unable to locate your car keys, you need to contact a locksmith. Locksmiths are able to create keys for your vehicle faster than a dealership. They can even do it for cheaper than a dealership would cost.
Some dealerships can create keys for replacement to cars, but they may not be able to complete it immediately or even at all. There are many dealerships that receive many customers which means they may not be able to help you right away. In addition, they may not be able to create an exact copy of your current key.
Another option is to purchase a replacement car key online. Keys can be purchased on Amazon and other sites at a lower cost than what you would purchase from an auto dealer. However, they might not have the ability to cut and program keys that are specific to your car model.
Certain insurance policies also provide coverage for the cost of replacing a lost or stolen car key. It's worth checking your insurance policy to determine if it will cover the cost of a replacement car key. Just remember that you will be required to provide proof of ownership and identification to the individual or company who creates the replacement key. This is legally required. It can be extremely costly if you are unable to prove ownership.
2. Contact the Dealership
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big deal. It was not expensive to purchase new keys from a dealer. However, with cars becoming more technologically advanced and keys becoming more expensive to replace - this isn't as easy as it used to be. If you lose your keys today, it's not uncommon to pay hundreds of dollars to get them replaced.
If you've lost your car keys the first thing you must do is be calm. This will help you think clearly and make the best decision on how to fix the problem. It is also important to ensure that you have a backup set keys in your pocket or the trunk of your car in case you lose the originals, you won't be out any money at all. Make sure to check if your warranty or insurance covers the cost of a replacement key. This could save you money in the event of a crisis.
Next, search your vehicle, your home and purse, or your wallet for keys missing. You could also retrace the steps you took, recollecting the last time you had your keys and where you were when you lost them. This might assist you in determining where they went and can be an immense relief.
Contact your dealer if aren't able to locate your keys after a thorough search. Dealerships are familiar with the vehicle they are servicing and can give you keys to replace. However, they're often busy and can't accommodate people on short notice, which can make the process difficult.
If you can contact your dealership, they will be able create keys for you based on the VIN number that is recorded on their system. They can also modify the immobilizer system that's required to start your car. Locksmiths are an excellent choice when you need a quick, reliable solution without having to wait at the dealership.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys was not a problem. A locksmith could come to your home and duplicate your keys at an affordable cost. As cars have become more technologically advanced, so have keys, and they're more expensive to replace than ever before.
Depending on the type of vehicle and year, replacing a lost key can be a long process and cost hundreds of dollars. It's always a good idea to keep an additional set of keys for your car in your pocket. This is especially true when you live in a dangerous area or in an area that has a high rate of theft.
It might seem like a waste to contact your insurance company however it could save you money over the course of time. Talk to your agent to determine whether you are able to get a replacement car key covered by your policy.
If your policy covers roadside assistance, you should consider this. If you have roadside assistance, someone may come to your aid. This is a less stressful option than dealing with a dealership or locksmith.
Be sure to thoroughly search your car before you call your insurance provider. If you believe they are in the car, search in the trunk and underneath the seat. If you're at home, check the pockets of the clothes you were wearing as well as in other places you may be prone to putting them. You should also double-check the places where you may have put them, such as in your purse or a desk that is cluttered.
Call your dealer to replace the keys once you've attempted to find them. This isn't an issue and is cheaper than calling an locksmith or calling the insurance company.
While you're at the dealership, you might want to inquire whether you can have a spare key made, especially if you don't have an actual key fob. The dealership will usually be able to duplicate an additional key for you, without having to alter any other part of your car. If you choose to do this, be sure you keep the spare key in a secure and safe location so that you can find it next time you lose it.
4. Contact the police
Not only can reporting your lost car key s to the police help you locate keys, but it also helps keep you safe from thieves. If someone steals your vehicle without permission, they could be fined when they drive it on streets in the city or private property. You can help protect yourself by reporting keys stolen before someone steals your vehicle. This will leave a trail of paper that will show who and when they reported the theft.
The loss of car keys is a common occurrence, but it doesn't have to be a disaster. As long as you call the right people, you'll be in a position to obtain an alternative key quickly and easily. You can even prevent the possibility of losing keys in the future if you follow the tips given in this article.
Try to trace your steps. This will give you an idea of where the key might have been lost and will aid in remembering what you were doing at the time. For instance, if you were returning home from work and then went out to eat at an eatery, you might be able to recall that keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you are unable to locate your keys, it could be in the bag you used to carry things around or on the table where you sat down to eat.
Another option is to post your key loss online. This increases the chances of locating the key by reaching a wider audience. You can also contact local businesses as well as other community bulletin boards.
It's crucial to note down the VIN of your vehicle prior to when you begin searching for your keys. This information is required to replace your keys, so it's important to keep it safe. The VIN is typically located on your driver's license however, it can also be found on your insurance card and in the owner's manual of your vehicle.
Once you've exhausted all other options and have exhausted all other options, it's time to contact the police. They'll be capable of providing you with temporary replacements for your vehicle and can prepare a police report that could be useful should the keys ever be found.