How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Car keys are lost is a major headache. This was not a problem until recent times but as cars get more technologically advanced, it is becoming more difficult.
Keys can be lost when you accidentally knock them off the table when you reach into your pocket to find something other. You can avoid such situations by keeping an extra key at home.
1. Call for a locksmith
The loss of your car keys can be an enormous inconvenience. But, there's also no need to panic. If you know what to do and who to call to get your car keys replaced should just take a couple of steps.
One of the first things you need to do is go back to where you started. It might appear obvious but it's difficult to accomplish if you are stressed or worried about losing your car keys. Be sure to inspect all of your bags and pockets to see in which you may have put them down, and also the area around your car.
Contact a locksmith if are unable to locate your car keys. Locksmiths are able to create keys for your vehicle quicker than the dealership. Plus, they can usually complete the task for much cheaper than the dealership will charge you.
Some dealerships can create replacement keys, however they might not be able to do this immediately or at any time. There are many dealerships that have an abundance of customers, so they might not be able to help your request immediately. They might not be able create an exact copy of the existing key.
Another option is to purchase a replacement car key online. These keys can be found on Amazon and elsewhere for a much lower price than what you would buy from the dealer. However, they may not have the ability to cut and program keys that are specific to your car model.
Some insurance policies cover the cost to replace the vehicle's lost or stolen key. So, it's always worthwhile to check if you have coverage that would help cover the cost of obtaining the new key for your vehicle. Remember to prove ownership to the person or business who creates the replacement key. This is legally required. If you're not able provide proof of ownership, it could be very costly.
2. Call the Dealership
It wasn't long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big deal. You could easily find keys replacements from a dealership, and it didn't cost much to do it. 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. If you lose your keys today it's not uncommon to pay hundreds of dollars to get them replaced.
It is important to be calm in the event that you've lost your car keys. This will allow you to think clearly and make the best decision about how to solve the problem. It is also important to ensure that you have a backup set of keys somewhere, like in your pocket or in the trunk of your car, so that if you do lose the originals and you lose them, you won't lose any money at all. You should also check to see if the key replacement is covered under your warranty or car insurance and can help you save money in the event of a financial crisis.
The next step is to search your car, your house, your purse, or your wallet for missing keys. You may also try to retrace your steps, remembering where you last saw keys and the location you were in when you lost my only car key them. This can help you find out where they are, which is a huge relief.
Contact your dealer if haven't been able to find your keys after a thorough search. Dealerships are aware of your vehicle and can give you an alternative key. However, they're typically busy and can't accommodate people at short notice, which could cause the process to be frustrating.
If you contact the dealership, they'll be able create a key for you using the VIN number that is saved on their system. They can also modify the immobilizer system that is required to start your vehicle. But if you're looking for an efficient, quick solution that doesn't involve waiting in the dealership, a locksmith might be a better choice.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Not too long ago losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could get a locksmith to travel to your place of residence and duplicate your keys for a reasonable fee. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced, keys have also become more expensive.
Based on the type of car you drive and year, replacing a lost car key a lost key can be a long process and cost hundreds of dollars. It's recommended to keep an additional set of keys on the go, especially if live in a dangerous neighborhood or an area where theft is commonplace.
It may seem like a waste to contact your insurance company however it could save you money over time. Check with your agent to see whether you are able to get a replacement car key covered by your policy.
If your policy covers roadside assistance, you should take into consideration this. If you have roadside assistance, someone could come to your aid. This is a less stressful option than dealing with a dealership or locksmith.
Before you call your insurance company, make sure to search thoroughly for your keys. If you believe they're in the car, check under the trunk and under the seat. Check the pockets of your clothes as well as other places where you may have been used to putting them. You should also double-check the places where you may have left them, such as in your purse or a desk that is cluttered.
Contact your dealer to replace the keys after you've tried to locate them. In most cases it won't be a problem and it is much less expensive than hiring a locksmith, or going through the insurance company.
Ask the dealer to create an extra key for you, especially when your car doesn't come with an remote. In most cases, your dealership can clone the spare key for you without changing anything else inside your vehicle. If you do this, make sure to keep the key in a safe and secure place to find it next time you lose it.
4. Contact the police
Notifying your car keys that you lost will help you locate them and keep you safe. If someone drives your car on public roads or private property without permission, the person may be fined. You can safeguard yourself by reporting your keys stolen prior to someone stealing your car. 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 catastrophe. If you contact the right people, you'll capable of obtaining an alternative key quickly and easily. If you follow the guidelines in this article, you'll even be able to prevent future key misplacements!
Take a step back. This will give you a good idea of where the key might be 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 purchase food and drinks, you might remember that keys were in your pocket when you left your vehicle. If you're unable to locate your key, it might 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 will reach a wide audience and increase the chances of finding it. You can also search local businesses and bulletin boards for community groups.
It's important that you write down the VIN of your vehicle before you start searching for your keys. You'll need this information to replace your key, so it's important to keep it somewhere safe. You can usually find the VIN on your driver's license, but it can also be found on your insurance card or in the owner's manual of your car.
Contact the police after you've exhausted all other options. You can get an interim replacement vehicle from the police, and they'll also submit reports that are useful if your keys are ever found.