How to Replace Lost Car Keys
It's an absolute nightmare to lose your car keys. It wasn't that long ago, it wasn't a big problem, but it's now becoming more complicated as cars become technologically advanced.
Most of the time, you lose your keys due to the fact that you've reached into your pockets for something else and accidentally dropped them off somewhere. A spare key in your house can save you from such situations.
1. Call a Locksmith
The loss of your car keys can be an extremely frustrating experience. But, there's no need to be in a panic. If you know what to do and who to contact, getting your car keys changed should just take a couple of steps.
One of the first things you need to do is try and go back to where you started. This may sound like a simple task however it can be difficult when you're in a rush or are already panicking over the loss of keys to your car. Be sure to inspect all bags and pockets in which you may have put them down, as well as the space around your car.
Contact a locksmith if cannot locate your car keys. Locksmiths can usually create a key for your car faster than the dealership. Additionally, they are able to do it for a lot less than the dealership would charge you.
Some dealerships can create replacement keys, however they may not be able do this immediately or at any point. They often have a very high volume of customers, so they may not be able accommodate your request right away. In addition, they might not be able to make an exact duplicate of your current key.
Another option is to purchase an online replacement for your car key. Keys can be purchased on Amazon and elsewhere for a much lower price than what you would buy from an auto dealer. However, they may 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 is worth examining your insurance policy to determine whether it will cover the cost of a replacement car key. Remember that you'll need to prove ownership to the person or company who creates your replacement key. This is required by the law. If you're not able provide proof of ownership, it can be very costly.
2. Contact the Dealership
It wasn't that long ago that losing keys to your car was not an issue. It wasn't too expensive to buy an alternative key from the dealer. This is not the case anymore, since cars are more sophisticated and keys are more expensive. It's not unusual to pay several hundred dollars for a new set of keys when you lose them.
You need to act calmly when you've lost your car keys. This will help you think clearly and make a good decision. If you lose your original keys, you should keep an extra set of keys in your pocket or in your car trunk. This will ensure that you're not out of money. It is also important to see if the key replacement is covered by your warranty or insurance for your car and can assist you in saving money in a crisis.
Then, look in your car, your home or your purse your wallet for missing keys. You may try to retrace your steps, recollecting where you last had them 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 you haven't found your keys after an exhaustive search. Dealerships know your vehicle and can give you an alternative key. However, they're usually busy and can't accommodate people at short notice, which can cause the process to be frustrating.
If you can contact your dealer, they will be able to create keys for you based on the VIN number that is stored on their system. They can also modify your immobilizer system, which is necessary to start your car. Locksmiths are a great option when you need a quick and reliable solution, without having to wait at the dealership.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
In the past the time when you lost your car keys was not a big deal. Locksmiths could come to your home and duplicate your keys at a reasonable price. As cars have become more technologically advanced, keys are also becoming more expensive.
Based on the type of vehicle and year, the process for replacing a lost car key can take a few steps and can cost you hundreds of dollars. It's always a smart idea to keep an extra set of car keys in your possession. This is especially true in the case of a dangerous area or in a place with an abundance of theft.
While it might seem like it's a waste of time to call your insurance company, calling them will save you money in the long run. Check with your agent to determine if you can get an alternative car key that is that is covered by your policy.
If replacing lost car keys covers roadside assistance, you should consider this. If you have roadside assistance, a person could come to your aid. This is less stressful than dealing with a dealership or locksmith.
Make sure you thoroughly search your vehicle before you contact your insurance company. If you think they're in the car, look in the trunk and under the seat. If you're at home check the pockets of the clothes you were wearing and in other places you might be prone to putting them. Make sure you check any places you might have left them. For instance, your purse or in a messy office.
Contact your dealer to replace the keys after you've tried to locate them. Most of the time this shouldn't be a problem and will cost less than hiring a locksmith or going through the insurance company.
While you're at the dealership, you might want to ask whether you can have a spare key made, especially if you don't have an actual key fob. Usually, your dealership can clone a spare for you without changing anything else inside your car. If you choose to do this, be sure to keep the key in a safe and secure place so that you can locate it the when you lose it.
4. Call the police
Reporting lost car keys will help you locate the keys and keep you safe. If someone steals your vehicle without permission, they could be fined for driving it on city streets or private property. You can safeguard yourself by reporting keys stolen before someone else steals your car. This will leave a trail of paper that shows when and who reported the theft.
The loss of car keys 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. You can also avoid the possibility of losing keys in the future by following the guidelines provided in this article.
Try to trace your steps. This will allow you to recall where you may have lost your key. For instance, if were driving home from work, and then went out to eat at an eatery, you might be able to remember that keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you're unable to locate the key, it may be in the bag you used to carry things around or on the table where you sat down for dinner.
Another good idea is to publish your most important loss online. This will reach a wide audience and increase your chances of finding it. You can also check with local businesses and other community bulletin boards.
Before you begin looking for your keys, be sure to note down the VIN number of your vehicle. This information is required to replace your keys, so you must keep it safe. The VIN is usually found on your driver's license but it's also on your insurance card as well as in your car's owner's guide.
Contact the police when you've exhausted your other options. They'll be able to provide you with a temporary replacement for your vehicle, and they can also make a report that could help should the keys ever be found.