How to Replace Lost Car Keys
It's an absolute nightmare to lose car keys. It was not a problem until recent times however, as cars become more technologically advanced, it's becoming more difficult.
Often you lose your keys because you've reached into your pockets for something else and accidentally knocked them off somewhere. You can avoid this by keeping a spare key at home.
- Call a Locksmith
Losing your car keys is a major inconvenience. It's not a reason to panic. If you know who to contact and what to do it will only take only a few steps to get your keys to your car replaced.
It is recommended to try retracing the steps you took. This may seem like an obvious step, but sometimes it can be difficult when you're in a rush or are already panicking over the loss of your car keys. Be sure to inspect all bags and pockets to see in which you've put them down, and also the space around your car.
If you're unable to locate your car keys, you need to call an locksmith. Locksmiths are usually in a position to make a new key for your car much quicker than the dealership. Plus, they can usually accomplish this for much cheaper than the dealership will charge you.
Some dealerships are able to create replacement keys, however they may not be able to do it in the immediate future or at any time. They often have a very large number of customers so they may not be able to assist you right away. They may also not be able to make an exact copy of your current key.
Another option is to purchase an online replacement for your car key. The keys are available on Amazon and other websites for a much lower price than you would purchase from the dealer. However, they may not be able to cut and program the keys to your specific car model.
Some insurance policies will cover the cost of replacing a lost or stolen vehicle key. It's worthwhile to check whether you have coverage that would help cover the cost of getting the new key for your vehicle. Just remember that you will have to prove ownership and proof of identity to the individual or company who makes the replacement key. This is required by the law. It can be extremely expensive if you're not able to prove ownership.
- Contact the Dealership
It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could easily get an alternative key from a dealership and it didn't cost too much to do it. However, this is no longer the case, as cars are more advanced and keys are more expensive. It's not uncommon to pay several hundred dollars for a brand new set of keys in the event that you lose them today.
If you've lost your car keys first thing you must do is to act in a calm manner. This will help you think clearly and make the right decision about how to solve the problem. It is also important to ensure that you have a backup set keys somewhere else, such as 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. Also, determine if the replacement is covered under your warranty or insurance for your car which could help you save money in the event of a financial crisis.
Next, search your car, your home and purse, or your wallet for keys that are missing. You can try to trace your steps, remembering where you last saw them and where you were when you lost them. This could help you figure out the location they went to, which can be an immense relief.
Call your dealership if you haven't found your keys after a thorough search. Dealerships are knowledgeable about your particular vehicle, which is why they're the best place to go to get a replacement key. However, they're typically busy and can't accommodate people on short notice, which could make the process frustrating.
If you're able to contact your dealer they'll be able to create a new key for you in accordance with the VIN number that is on the file. They can also reprogram the immobilizer device that is required to start your vehicle. Locksmiths are an excellent choice when you need a quick and reliable solution that doesn't require you to wait in the dealership.
- Call Your Insurance Company
It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys was not a major issue. You could call a locksmith to drive to your location and duplicate your key for a reasonable fee. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced, the keys have also become more expensive.
Depending on the type of vehicle and year, replacing a lost key could be a lengthy process that can cost hundreds of dollars. This is why it's a good idea to have an extra set of keys in the go, especially if reside in a dangerous area or in a location where theft is common.
It might seem like a waste of time to call your insurer, but it can save you money over time. Contact your agent to determine whether you can obtain a replacement car key insured by your policy.
Another thing to think about is whether your policy includes roadside assistance. 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 call your insurance company. If you believe they're in the car, check inside the trunk and beneath the seat. If you're at home, look in the pockets of the clothes you were wearing as well as in other places you might have a habit of placing them. Double-check any places you may have left them. For example, your purse or a cluttered office.
Once you've done your best to locate the car keys, it's recommended to contact your dealer to get them replaced. This isn't an issue and is cheaper than calling a locksmith or going to the insurance company.
Ask the dealer to create a spare key for you, specifically in the event that your car doesn't have an remote. Usually the dealership will be able to make a spare for you without changing anything else inside your car. If you do this make sure you keep the key in a place that is safe and secure to ensure you can locate it in the event that you lose it.
- Contact the police
Reporting lost car keys can help you locate the keys and keep you safe. If someone drives your car on public roads or private property without permission, the person could be penalized. You can help protect yourself by reporting your keys stolen prior to someone stealing your car. replace lost car key will leave a paper trail that will show when and who reported the theft.
It's common to lose keys to your car, but it does not need to be a disaster. If you contact the appropriate people, you'll be able to get an alternative key quickly and quickly. If you follow the guidelines in this article, you'll even be able to avoid the possibility of losing your key again!
Take a step back. This will give you a good idea of where your keys might be, and it can also help you remember what you were doing at the time. If you were driving to work, then stopped at a restaurant in order to take a bite, you may remember that your keys were in your pocket as you left the vehicle. If you cannot find your key, you might have put it in the bag you carried around with things or at the table that you ate at.
Posting your lost key online is a good idea. This will be seen by a large audience and increase the likelihood of finding it. You can also check with local businesses and other community bulletin boards.
Before you start looking for your keys, you need to write down the VIN number of your vehicle. This information is needed to replace your keys, so you should keep it secure. 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.
Call the police once you've exhausted all other options. They'll be capable of providing you with a temporary replacement for your car and can file a report that will be useful should the keys ever be discovered.
replace lost car key