How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Losing car keys is a nightmare. Not long ago it wasn't a big problem, but it's now becoming more complicated as cars become technologically advanced.
Sometimes, keys are lost due to the fact that you've reached into your pocket to find something else, and then accidentally knocked them off somewhere. You can avoid such situations by keeping a spare key at home.
1. Call 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 who to call and what you should do it will only take a few steps to get your keys replaced in your car.
One of the first things to do is go back to where you started. replacing lost keys may appear obvious, but it can be difficult to accomplish if you are stressed or concerned about losing your car keys. Be sure to look in all your pockets and bags in which you've put them down, as well as the surrounding area around your vehicle.
Call a locksmith if you are unable to locate your car keys. Locksmiths are usually in a position to make keys for your car much faster than the dealership. Plus, they can usually do it for a lot cheaper than the dealership will charge you.
Some dealers are able to make replacement keys, but they may not be able do it immediately or at any time. There are many dealerships that receive an abundance of customers which means they may not be able to help you immediately. They may also not be able to make an exact copy of your current key.
Another option is to buy an online replacement for your car key. The keys are available on Amazon and other websites for a much lower price than you would purchase from an auto dealer. However, they may not have the ability to cut and program the keys to your specific car model.
Some insurance policies will cover the cost of replacing a stolen or lost vehicle key. It's a good idea to check your insurance policy to determine whether it covers the cost of a replacement car key. Remember that you'll need to prove ownership to the person or business who creates the replacement key. This is required by law. If you're unable to provide proof of ownership, it can be quite costly.
2. Call the Dealership
A few years ago, misplacing - or even losing your car keys was not an issue. It was easy to get an alternative key from the dealership and it didn't cost too much to get it done. However, with cars becoming more advanced in technology - and the keys getting 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 spend hundreds of dollars to get them replaced.
If you've lost your car keys first thing you must do is to act in a calm manner. This will allow you to think clearly and make a good decision. If you lose your original keys, you should have an extra set of keys in your purse or car trunk. This will ensure you're not out of money. Also, see if the key replacement is covered under your warranty or car insurance which could assist you in saving cash in the event of a need.
Then, look in your car, your home, your purse, or your wallet for missing keys. You can also retrace the steps you took, remembering when you last held your keys and where you were when you lost them. This might help you determine the location they went to and can be an immense relief.
Contact your dealer if you haven't been able to find your keys after a thorough search. Dealerships know the vehicle they are servicing and can supply you with keys to replace. They're usually busy and are not able to accommodate customers who have a short notice. This could make the process difficult.
If you are able to contact your dealership, they will be able create a key for you using the VIN number that is recorded on their system. They can also reprogram your immobilizer system which is required to start your vehicle. Locksmiths are an excellent choice for those who want a fast and reliable solution, without having to wait in the dealership.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing car keys was not a big issue. You could contact a locksmith to drive to your location and duplicate your key for a reasonable fee. As cars have become more technologically advanced, keys have also become more expensive.
Depending on the kind of vehicle and year, the process for replacing keys for a car that have been lost can require several steps and can cost you hundreds of dollars. This is why it's an excellent idea to keep an additional set of keys on the go, especially if reside in a dangerous area or a place where theft is commonplace.
While it might seem like it's a waste of time to contact your insurance company, it could save you money in the long run. Contact your agent to determine if you can get a replacement car key insured by your policy.
If your policy provides roadside assistance, you should also think about this. If you have roadside assistance, a person could come to your aid. This is a less stressful option than dealing with a dealer or locksmith.
Before calling your insurance company, make sure to thoroughly search for your keys. If you think they're in your car, look 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 have a habit of putting them. Check any places where you might have left them. For example, your purse or an unorganized office.
After you've tried to find the keys to your car It's recommended to contact your dealer to get them replaced. Usually this shouldn't be a problem and it will cost less than hiring a locksmith or working through the insurance company.
Ask the dealer to create a spare key for you, especially when your car doesn't come with a remote. Most of the time, your dealership can clone a spare for you without changing anything else inside your vehicle. If you choose to do this, be sure you keep the key in a safe and secure location so that you can find it next time you lose yours.
4. Call the police
Not only can reporting your lost car keys to police help you locate keys however, it can also help keep you safe from thieves. If someone steals your vehicle without permission, they may be fined for driving it on city streets or private property. You can help protect yourself by registering your keys stolen before someone else steals your vehicle. This will leave a trail of paper that shows when and who reported the theft.
Car keys are lost is a common problem however it doesn't have to be to be a major issue. You can replace your car key quickly and easily if you call the right people. If you follow the guidelines in this article, you'll be able to prevent future key misplacements!
Take a step back. This will help you recall where you might have lost your key. If you were driving to work and then went to a restaurant to purchase food You may recall that your keys were in your pocket when you left your vehicle. If you are unable to locate your keys, it could be in the bag you used to carry things around or on the table at which you sat down for dinner.
Another option is to post your key loss online. This will increase the likelihood of finding the key by reaching a wider audience. You can also check with local businesses and other community bulletin boards.
It's important that you note down the VIN of your vehicle before you start searching for your keys. This information is needed to replace your keys, therefore you should keep it in a safe place. The VIN is typically located on your driver's license but it's also on your insurance card and in your car's owner's manual.
If you've exhausted all other options and have exhausted all other options, it's time to contact the police. You can request an emergency replacement car from the police department, and they'll also file a report which is useful in the event that your keys are recovered.