How to Replace Lost Car Keys
It's a nightmare to lose your car keys. In the past, it wasn't a big issue, but it's becoming more complicated as cars become technologically advanced.
Keys can be lost when you accidentally knock them off the table while reaching into your pockets to get something else. You can prevent this from happening by keeping a spare key in your home.
1. Contact a locksmith
The loss of your car keys can be an extremely frustrating experience. But, there's also no need to be in a panic. If you know who to call and how to act you should only need to take just a few steps to have your keys to your car replaced.
One of the first things you have to do is try and go back to where you started. This may sound like an obvious step however it can be difficult when you're in a rush or you're already worried about the loss of keys to your car. Make sure you check all your pockets, bags, and the area around your vehicle.
If you're unable to find your car keys, you need to call a locksmith. Locksmiths are usually capable of creating keys for your vehicle faster than a dealership. They can also do it for much less than a dealership would cost.
Some dealers are able to create replacement keys, but may not be able do this immediately or at any time. There are many dealerships that have many customers and therefore may not be able accommodate you right away. They may not also be able create an exact copy of the existing key.
You can also buy a replacement key online. These keys can be found on Amazon and elsewhere for a much lower price than what you would purchase from a dealer. However, they may not have the ability to cut and program the keys to your specific car model.
Certain insurance policies also cover the cost of replacing a stolen or lost car key. It is worth examining your insurance policy to determine whether it covers the cost of replacing a car key. Just remember that you will have to prove ownership and identification to the company or individual who is responsible for the creation of the replacement key. This is required by law. If you're not able prove ownership, it could be very costly.
2. Call the Dealership
It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could easily find an alternative key from a dealership, and it didn't cost too much to get it done. However, with cars becoming more technologically advanced - and the keys getting more expensive to replace It's not as easy as it was in the past. It's not uncommon to shell out hundreds of dollars for a new set of keys in the event that you lose them today.
You must be calm in the event that you've lost your car keys. Learn Additional will enable you to think clearly and make the right decision. If you have lost your original keys you should have a spare set of keys in your purse or car trunk. This will ensure you're not in a financial bind. Also, see if the key replacement is covered by your warranty or car insurance which could help you save some money in the event of a financial crisis.
The next step is to conduct a thorough search of your home, vehicle and purse or wallet to find the missing keys. You may try to trace your steps, remembering the last place you had them and the location you were in when you lost them. This could help you determine where they ended up, which can be a huge relief.
Contact your dealer if you haven't been able to find your keys after an exhaustive search. Dealerships are familiar with your specific vehicle, so they're the best place to go for a replacement key. However, they're typically full and cannot accommodate people on short notice, which can cause the process to be frustrating.
If you're able to get a hold of your dealer they'll be able to create a new key for you based on the VIN number that is on file. They can also reprogram your immobilizer system which is required to start your vehicle. Locksmiths are a great option for those who want a fast, reliable solution without having to wait at the dealership.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
It wasn't too long ago that losing car keys was not a big issue. You could call a locksmith to travel to your place of residence and duplicate your keys for a reasonable price. But as cars have gotten more technologically advanced, so have the keys, and they're more expensive to replace than ever before.
Based on the type of car you drive and year replacing a lost or damaged key could be a lengthy process that can cost hundreds of dollars. It's always a smart idea to keep an additional set of keys for your car in your pocket. This is particularly true if you live near an area of danger or an area with an abundance of theft.
It may seem like a waste of time to call your insurance provider however it could save you money in the long run. Check with your agent to see whether you can obtain a replacement car key that is covered by your policy.
If your policy provides roadside assistance, you should consider this. If you have roadside assistance, a person could come to your aid. This is a much less stressful option than dealing with a dealer or locksmith.
Make sure you thoroughly search your vehicle before you call your insurance provider. If you believe they are in the car, look inside the trunk and beneath the seat. If you're at home check the pockets of the clothes you were wearing and in other places where you may have a habit of placing them. Make sure you check any places you might have left them. For instance, in your purse or an unorganized office.
Contact your dealer for replacement of the keys once you've attempted to locate them. This isn't an issue, and it's cheaper than calling an locksmith or calling the insurance company.
While you're at the dealer, you might want to ask about having a spare key made, particularly if you don't have an actual key fob. In most cases the dealership will be able to make an extra key for you, without changing anything else inside your car. If you choose to do this, be sure you keep the key in a safe and secure location so that you can find it when you lose it.
4. Contact the police
Reporting lost car keys can help you locate the keys and keep you safe. If someone takes your vehicle without permission, they could be fined if they drive it on city streets or private property. If you report the keys missing prior to the person making off with your vehicle, you'll be aware that there's a legal paper trace of when it went missing and who reported it.
It's a common problem to lose your car keys, however it doesn't need to be a disaster. If you contact the right people, you'll capable of obtaining the replacement key fast and easily. If you follow the suggestions in this article, you'll even be able to prevent the possibility of losing your key again!
Retrace your steps. This will give you a clear idea of where your key could have been lost and can help you remember what you were doing at the time. If you were driving to work and then went to a restaurant to take a bite, you may remember that keys were in your pockets as you left the vehicle. If you're unable to locate your key, it might be in the bag you carried things around or on the table at which you sat down for dinner.
Another good idea is to publish your most important loss online. This will reach a wide audience and increase the chances of finding it. You can also check with local businesses and other bulletin boards.
It is essential to note down the VIN of your car before you begin looking for your keys. This information is required to replace your keys, which is why you should keep it secure. You can usually find the VIN on your driver's licence, but it can also be found on your insurance card or in the owner's manual of your car.
Contact the police when you've exhausted other options. They'll be in a position to provide you with temporary replacements for your car and can make a report that could help if the keys are ever found.