How to Replace Lost Car Keys
It's an absolute nightmare to lose car keys. Not long ago 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 pocket to get something other. A spare key in your house can help you avoid such situations.
1. Call a locksmith
There's no doubt that losing your car keys could be a major hassle. However, there's no need to be in a panic. As long as you know who to call and what you should do it will only take only a few steps to get your keys replaced in your car.
One of the first things you have to do is try and retrace your steps. It might appear obvious however it can be hard to do if you are stressed or worried about losing your car keys. Examine all pockets, bags and the space around your vehicle.
Contact a locksmith if can't find your car keys. Locksmiths can usually make keys for your vehicle much faster than a dealership. They can even do it for less than a dealership will charge.
Some dealers are able to make replacement keys, but they may not be able do this immediately or at any time. They often have a very high volume of customers, therefore they might not be able accommodate immediately. They might not be able create an exact copy of your existing key.
You can also buy a replacement key online. Keys can be purchased on Amazon and other sites for a much lower price than you'd buy from an auto dealer. However, they might not be able to cut and program the keys to your specific car model.
Some insurance policies also provide coverage for the cost of replacing a lost or stolen car key. It is worth examining your insurance policy to see whether it will cover the cost of a new car key. Be aware that you'll need to provide proof of ownership and proof of identity to the company or individual who makes the replacement key. This is legally required. i lost the key to my car can be extremely expensive if you are not able to prove ownership.
2. Call the Dealership
Not too long ago the possibility of misplacing or losing - your car keys wasn't an issue. It wasn't expensive to get new keys from the dealer. However, with cars getting more advanced in technology - and the keys getting more expensive to replace it's not as simple as it used to be. It's not unusual to pay several hundred dollars for a brand new set of keys when you lose them.
If you've lost your car keys, the first thing you need to do is be calm. This will allow you to think clearly and make the best decision on how to fix the problem. Also, make sure that you have a backup set keys in your pocket or the trunk of your car in case you lose the originals and you lose them, you won't lose any money. Find out whether your warranty or insurance covers the cost of a replacement key. This can help you save money in an emergency.
Then, look in your vehicle, your home or your purse your wallet for missing keys. You may try to trace your steps, remembering where you last saw keys and where you were when you lost them. This can help you find out where they are which is a relief.
Contact your dealer if haven't found your keys after an exhaustive search. Dealerships are aware of the vehicle they are servicing and can provide you with an alternative key. However, they're often busy and can't accommodate people at short notice, which can cause the process to be frustrating.
If you can get in touch with your dealer, they will be able create keys for you using the VIN number that is saved on their system. They can also modify your immobilizer which is required to start your vehicle. However, if you're looking to find a fast, reliable solution that doesn't involve waiting in the dealership, a locksmith could be a better option.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
In the past, misplacing your car keys was not an issue. You could contact a locksmith to travel to your location and duplicate your key for a reasonable price. As cars have become more technologically advanced, so too have the keys, and they're more expensive to replace than ever.
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 keep an extra set of car keys in your possession. This is especially true if you live near an area that is prone to danger or an area with an abundance of theft.
While it might seem like an unnecessary effort to call your insurance company, calling them could save you money in the long run. Check with your agent to determine whether you can obtain an alternative car key that is covered by your policy.
If your insurance policy provides roadside assistance, you should also take into consideration this. If you have roadside assistance, a person may come to your aid. This is less stressful than dealing with a dealership or locksmith.
Before you call your insurance company, be sure to search thoroughly for your keys. If you believe they are in the car, look in the trunk and underneath the seat. Check the pockets of your clothes as well as other places you might have been used to putting them. Double-check any places you may have left them. For instance, in your purse or a cluttered office.
Contact your dealer to replace the keys once you've attempted to locate them. In most cases this shouldn't be a problem and will be much cheaper than hiring a locksmith or working through the insurance company.
When you visit the dealership, you might want to inquire whether you can have a spare key made, especially in the event that you don't have a key fob. In most cases the dealership will be able to make the spare key for you without changing anything else inside your car. If you choose to do this, be sure you keep the spare key in a secure and safe place so that you can locate it the when you lose it.
4. Call the police
Not only can the act of reporting your lost car keys to the police help you locate the keys It also helps protect you from thieves. If someone takes your vehicle without permission, they may be fined for driving it on public roads or private property. If you report your keys missing before the person makes off with your car, you'll know that there's an official paper trail of when it was missing and who reported it.
Car keys are lost is a frequent occurrence, but it doesn't have to be a major issue. You can replace your car key quickly and easily if call the right people. You can also avoid future key misplacements if you follow the tips provided in this article.
Take a step back. This will help you recall where you may have lost your key. For instance, if you were driving home from work and then went out to eat at a restaurant, you might be able to recall keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you can't find your keys, it could be in the bag you carried things around or on the table where you sat down for dinner.
Another option is to post your key loss online. This increases the chances of finding the key by reaching a wider audience. You can also check with local businesses and other bulletin boards.
Before you begin looking for your keys, you need to write down the VIN number of your vehicle. You'll need this information to replace your keys therefore it's essential to keep it in a safe place. The VIN is typically found on your driver's license, but can also be found on your insurance card as well as in your car's owner's manual.
After you've exhausted all other options and have exhausted all other options, it's time to contact the police. They'll be in a position to provide you with an interim replacement for your vehicle and also prepare a police report that could be useful should the keys ever be found.