10 Things Everybody Hates About Replace Lost Car Key
How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the rush of taking kids to school, running errands, and working, things have a tendency to be lost. One of the most frequently lost items that disappears is our keys to our car.
In the past you could easily change this at your local locksmith or hardware store. This isn't the situation anymore.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
If you've lost your car key, the first place to contact is your local car dealer. Most dealers keep a record of every key made for their vehicles, so it should be easy for them to find your keys. It is expensive to visit a dealer and you should research. You may be able to find a cheaper solution by using an auto locksmith.
lost key to my car 'll likely have to provide the dealership with your vehicle identification number or VIN, and proof of ownership (such as a copy of registration or title) to receive the replacement key. The dealership will then order an additional key and connect it with your vehicle. This can be a lengthy process, and you will be waiting until the dealer has completed the task.
Smart keys are a type of key that is used in a variety of cars today. They are designed to work with a proximity sensor that can be activated within the car, which allows keyless entry and starting. They are typically used in conjunction with ignitions that have a push-to-start feature. The dealer can sell you a smart key, however, it's expensive. A local auto locksmith can make an intelligent key for you at a fraction of what you would buy from the dealership.
You can also replace your key with a new one at the local hardware store. They can create an ordinary key that will fit your vehicle's lock cylinder. They will need to know the year of manufacture of your vehicle, as well as the VIN. If you are unable to locate the VIN on your vehicle it will be engraved on a metal plaque located on the dashboard or doorpost. Even if you don't have the original, many locksmiths for automotive can provide you with a replacement car key. In some instances, they may need to disassemble the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. This is not a dangerous job for a professional, but it will require some mechanical skills and knowledge.
2. Contact an expert locksmith
The most common reason for requesting roadside assistance is that you have lost your car keys. Keep a spare car key with you and keep it safe. However even the most vigilant people may lose their car keys. You should look for the car key and notify your insurance company immediately if you spot it. This will reduce the likelihood of your claim being rejected later should your key be found stolen.
Calling a locksmith is the best option if you don't own an extra. Locksmiths are usually able to provide a replacement key at less than what the dealership would charge. They may also come to your location to create keys right there, which is more convenient than having your car brought back to the dealer.
The cost of replacing your car keys can vary depending on the type you own. The most affordable keys are the standard keys that can be bought at many hardware stores. They are priced at around $10 per key. If your car is equipped with an ignition key fob that acts like a remote and can unlock and start the engine, or a smart key which can only be replaced by a dealership and will typically cost more than the traditional key.
In most instances, an automotive locksmith can replace the key fob or smart key as long as they have the VIN number for your vehicle it is usually located on a metal plaque on your driver's side doorpost or in the windshield of the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership, such as your registration or title.
You should always conduct your research prior to hiring a locksmith. You can find qualified auto locksmiths on the internet or asking your family and friends for suggestions. Also, be aware that using unauthorized keys to start the car can result in a breach of your vehicle's warranty. Unauthorized keys can cause damage to your car's lock. If you do not want to risk it is a good idea to call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith and wait for a replacement key from the dealer.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Panic is one of the most negative reactions you can have when you lose your key. The first step is take your breath and try to rationalize the situation. It is more likely that you misplaced your keys than they were stolen. The next step is to go back through the steps you took and try to find out where your keys were. It's a good idea to check places you don't normally check, like the pockets of your pants, or a bag or coat that you use to run in. After you've inspected all these places, it's a good idea call your insurance company.
Most modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate with your car via chip. This allows the car to recognize the key fob, unlock the doors, and also start the engine. It's important that you inform the authorities of the loss of your key immediately to prevent unauthorized individuals from using your vehicle.
Some insurance companies offer an add-on to their policy that will cover the cost of replacing a key for your car. It's worth talking to your insurance company to find out whether they provide this kind of coverage or if you can find an individual locksmith that will cover the cost.
You can usually replace the mechanical key at most hardware stores for a fair price. If, however, your car is equipped with an electronic key fob, which is paired with your car through the chip, you'll have to visit your dealer to request a replacement. This can be costly however it's cheaper than hiring a locksmith.
Filing an insurance claim because of a car key that was stolen can increase your insurance rates. This is because the insurance company will view you as an extremely risky driver for the loss of your car key and could increase your premiums to offset the cost of paying out the claim. You can reduce these cost by buying a tracking device that will track your lost keys or having a professional locksmith create an original key without copying the old key.
4. Call a Tow truck
Everyone would hate to lose their car keys. It's the most embarrassing thing that could occur. But if it does it could be costly to replace the key that was lost and get you back on the road again. That's why it's best to be prepared in case it does, so you can avoid having to call a tow truck and keep your money in your wallet.
When you've lost your car keys, the first step is to retrace your steps. This will allow you to locate them and calm your panic. You might recall doing something at the grocery store or putting your keys on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you find your place of origin.
If you are unable to locate your keys, check places where you may have put them, such as the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or the bag that you used to transport them home. If you are unable to locate them, take some time to relax and then call a locksmith or tow truck.
Another alternative is to use an bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are small devices that can attach to a keyring, and an app on your smartphone will provide you with the location of your keys.
The cost of replacing a lost car key can be a bit expensive depending on the type of key you own. If you have a conventional key, an automotive locksmith can typically make a new one on the spot without the original, which will save you some money. If you have a smart key that uses proximity sensors to open the doors or turn on the engine of your car, you will need to visit a dealership to get a replacement.
It's important to have a plan to deal with the loss of your car keys, so that you can save yourself the headache of having to pay for a tow truck or a locksmith. It's easy to lose your car keys when you're tired after a long day, or when your mind is busy with other things. If you follow these suggestions you can ensure that your keys won't vanish forever, and you have a backup plan in case the event that they do.