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How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Things tend to get lost in the hustle of bringing kids to and from school, completing errands and working. One of the most frequently lost things that get lost is the keys to our car.

In the past, this wasn't an issue since you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. However, nowadays, it isn't as simple.

1. Contact Your Car Dealership

If you've lost your car keys, the first place you should call is your local car dealer. Most car dealers keep a record of every key that is made for their vehicles making it easy for them to locate yours. The drawback is that visiting the dealership can be costly so it's crucial to look around. You may be able to get a lower price by using an auto locksmith.

You'll likely have to give the dealership your vehicle identification number, or VIN, and evidence of ownership (such as a copy of your registration or title) to receive the replacement key. The dealership will then request a new key and pair it with your vehicle. This could be a long process, and you'll need to wait for the dealer to finish the process.

A lot of cars today are equipped with the special kind of key called a smart key. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, allowing for keyless entry and starting. They are usually paired with push-to-start ignitions. You can purchase a brand new smart key at the dealership, but the price is very high. Local auto locksmiths can create you a smart lock at only a fraction of the cost.

You can also purchase an old-fashioned key replacement from your local hardware store. They will be able to make you an ordinary key that will fit your vehicle's lock cylinder. They will need the VIN and the model year. If you can't find the VIN on your car, it will be stamped on a plaque made of metal that is located on the dashboard or driver's doorpost. Even if you don't have the original key, most automotive locksmiths can offer an alternate car key. However, in some cases they may have to take apart the ignition and door locks to accomplish this. This is not a dangerous job for a professional, but it does require some mechanical knowledge and skill.

2. Contact a locksmith

Misplacing your car keys is among of the most common reasons for roadside assistance and callouts. Keep an extra car key with you and store it safely. Even the most cautious of people may lose their keys. It is important to look for the car keys and inform your insurance company immediately if you discover it. This will decrease the chance of your claim being denied later should your key be found stolen.

If you don't have an extra key, the best option is to contact an locksmith. Locksmiths can usually offer a replacement key for less than what the dealership will cost. They can also usually come out to your location and make the key on the spot and is more efficient than having to take your vehicle back to the dealership.

The cost of replacing your car keys can vary depending on the model you have. Traditional keys, which can be replaced at the majority of hardware stores for around $10 each, are the most affordable. If your car comes with a key fob that can be used as a remote to unlock and start the vehicle or a smart-key, which can only by replaced at a dealership, the price of these keys is usually more expensive than traditional keys.

In most instances, an auto locksmith can replace a key fob or smart key if they have the VIN number of your vehicle that is usually found on a metal plate that is placed on your driver's side doorpost or etched into the windshield of the vehicle. They will also require evidence that you have ownership of the vehicle, such as an original registration or title.

Some locksmiths are not licensed or insured, so be sure to do your research prior to hiring them. You can locate reputable auto locksmiths by searching online or asking friends and family for recommendations. Be aware that using an unlicensed key to start your car could lead to an infringement of warranty. Using unauthorized keys may also cause damage to your car's lock. If you do not want to risk this is a good idea to contact 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 be experiencing when you lose your keys. The first step is to take a deep breath and try to rationalize the situation. Chances are that you lost your keys due to you lost key fob them, rather than having them taken. The next step is retrace the steps you took and try to determine the place where your keys were. You may want to look in places you don't normally check such as the pockets of your pants, coat or a bag you carry to run in. After you've checked these places, you should call your insurance company.

Most modern cars are equipped with electronic keys which communicate with your car via a chip. This communication allows the vehicle recognize the key fob and unlock the doors, as well as start the engine. If you lose your key, it's important to notify the police immediately to ensure that people who are not authorized don't get into your car and use it.

Certain insurance companies provide an extra benefit to their policy that covers the cost of replacing a key for your car. Contact your insurance provider to find out if this type of insurance is offered or if a locksmith will cover the costs.

If your car uses the standard mechanical key, you can have it replaced at a variety of hardware stores for a nominal cost. If your car has an electronic key that is connected with your vehicle using the chip, you will have to visit your dealer to purchase an replacement. This can be costly, but it's much more cost-effective than hiring locksmith.

In addition to the cost of replacing your car key and filing an insurance claim to replace a lost key can cause your car insurance rates to rise. This is because your insurance provider will consider you to be high-risk driver for loosing your car key, and may raise your premiums in order to offset the cost of settling the claim. Fortunately, you can often save yourself the cost of buying a tracking device that can locate your car key that has been lost or having a locksmith make a new key without cloning the original.

4. Contact a Tow Truck

Everyone would hate to lose their car keys. It's the most embarrassing thing that could happen. However, if it does happen it can be expensive to replace the key that was lost and get you back on the road again. That's why it's best to be prepared for when it does, so you won't need to call an tow truck and keep your cash in your wallet.

If you've lost your car keys, the very first step is to retrace your steps. This will aid in determining where they are, and help you calm your anxiety. You might recall doing something at the supermarket, or dropping your keys on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you find your starting point.

If you are unable to locate your keys, look around where they might be, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing or the bag you put them in after you returned home. If you still can't find them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.

Another option is to make use of an bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are tiny devices that you can attach to your keyring and use an app for your phone that can reveal where your keys are so you don't need to look through every drawer or pocket in your home.

The cost of replacing the car key that has been lost can differ depending on the type of key you have. If you have a traditional key an automotive locksmith will typically make a new one on the spot without the original, which can save you money. However, if you own an electronic key that utilizes a proximity sensor to open the door or start the engine, you'll have to visit the dealer to purchase a new one.

You must have a plan for when you lose your keys. This will spare you the hassle of having to pay for an tow-truck or locksmith. When you're stressed or distracted, it's easy to lose your keys to your car. By following these tips you can make sure that your keys don't disappear forever. You should also have a back-up plan in case they happen to disappear.