How to Replace Lost Car Keys

In the shuffle of taking kids to school, running errands, and working things tend to get lost. Car keys are one of the most frequently lost keys items.

In the past you could easily change this at the local locksmith or hardware store. However, this isn't the situation anymore.

1. Contact Your Car Dealership

Your car dealer is the first person you should contact in case you lose your key. Most dealers keep a record of every key that is made for their vehicles making it easy for them to find your key. The downside is that visiting the dealership can be expensive and it's essential to shop around. You may be able to find a cheaper option through an automotive locksmith.

You will most likely need to give the dealership your vehicle identification number or VIN, along with proof of ownership (such as a copy registration or title) to receive a replacement key. The dealership will order a replacement key and pair it to your vehicle. The dealer will need to complete this lengthy process.

Many cars today come with the special kind of key called a smart key. They are designed to activate a proximity sensor inside the vehicle, allowing for keyless entry and start. They are usually paired with push-to-start ignitions. You can buy a new smart key at the dealership, but the price is quite expensive. Local auto locksmiths can create you a smart key at less than the cost.

You can also purchase an old-fashioned key replacement at your local hardware store. They will be able to make a standard key that fits the lock cylinder of your vehicle. They will need the VIN and the model year. If you're unable to find the VIN it's typically stamped on a metal plaque found on the driver's doorpost or the dashboard. Most automotive locksmiths will be able how to replace car keys when lost offer a car key replacement even if you don't have the original. However, in certain instances they may have to disassemble the ignition and door locks to accomplish this. It's not a risky job, but it does require some technical knowledge.

2. Contact a locksmith

The misplacing of keys to your car is one of the most frequent reasons for roadside assistance or callouts. Keep a spare car key with you and keep it safe. However, even the most careful people can lose their car keys. It is important to thoroughly search for the key and inform your insurance company as quickly as you can to minimize your chances of being denied a claim if it is found later stolen.

Contacting a locksmith is the best option when you don't have an extra key. Locksmiths can usually provide a key replacement at less than what a dealership would cost. They can also usually come out to your location and create the key right there and is more efficient than having to take your vehicle back to the dealership.

The type of car key you have could affect the cost to replace it. Traditional keys, which can be replaced at most hardware stores for $10 each, are the most affordable. If your car is equipped with the key fob, which acts like a remote and can be used to unlock and start the engine or a smart key which can only be replaced by an auto dealer the keys will typically cost more than the traditional key.

In most instances, an automotive locksmith will be able to replace keys fobs or a smart key if they can get the VIN number for your vehicle that is usually found on a metal plate on the driver's side of the doorpost or etched into the windshield of the car. They will need evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.

You should always do your research before hiring locksmith. You can find qualified auto-locksmiths by searching online, or asking family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using keys you have not authorized to start your car could lead to the violation of your vehicle's warranty. Using unauthorized keys may also cause damage to your car's lock. If you do not wish to take this risk, it is best to call roadside help instead of a locksmith for cars and wait until your dealer sends out a replacement key.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

Panic is among the worst reactions you can have when you lose your keys. The first thing to do is take your breath and try to rationalize the situation. Most likely, you lost your keys due to you lost them, instead of them being taken. The next step is to retrace your steps and attempt to find out the place they were lost. It may help to check places you wouldn't usually check, such as pockets on your pants or coat or in a bag you carry around when running. After you've looked through all these places, it's a good idea contact your insurance company.

Modern cars are fitted with electronic keys that connect to your car through chip. This communication lets the car recognize the key fob and open the doors, and start the engine. It's important that you immediately report the loss of your keys immediately to prevent anyone who is not authorized from utilizing your vehicle.

Certain insurance companies provide an extra benefit to their policy that covers the cost of replacing a car key. Contact your insurance provider to determine if this kind of coverage is available or if a locksmith can pay for the costs.

You can usually replace the mechanical key at most hardware stores at a reasonable cost. If your car is equipped with an electronic key that connects to your vehicle via the chip, then you will need to visit your dealership to obtain an replacement. It can be costly however it's much cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.

In addition to the expense of replacing your car keys, filing an insurance claim for the loss of a key could cause your car keys lost what to do insurance rates to rise. Your insurance company could increase your premiums because they will consider you an extremely risky driver because you lost your key. You can avoid these extra expenses by purchasing a device that tracks your lost key to locate your lost key or hiring a professional locksmith to design keys without copying the old key.

4. Contact a Tow Truck

Everyone would hate to lose their car keys. It's the most embarrassing thing that could happen. If it does happen, it can be costly to replace the key that was lost and get back on the road again. It's why it's important to be prepared if it happens, so you can avoid having to call an tow truck and keep your cash in your wallet.

Find your way back in case you've lost your keys. This can help you figure out exactly where they are and help calm your panic. You may remember doing something in the supermarket, or dropping your keys on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you pinpoint your starting point.

If you can't locate your keys, search in places you might have put them, like the pockets of the clothing you were wearing, or the bag that you carried them in to take them to home. If you're still unable to locate the keys, give yourself time to relax before calling a locksmith tow truck.

A bluetooth key tracker can also be used on your phone. These are tiny devices can be connected to your keyring, and also have an app on your phone that can reveal where your keys are so you don't need to search every drawer or pocket in your home.

The cost of replacing a lost car key can be a bit expensive according to the type of key you own. You could save money in the case of an old-fashioned car key. An automotive locksmith will typically be able to make a replacement on the spot, but without the original. If you are using a smart-key that utilizes proximity sensors to open the doors or turn on the engine of your vehicle it is necessary to visit the dealership to purchase a new one.

You should have a plan for when you lose your keys. This will help you avoid the hassle of having to pay for the tow-truck or locksmith. It's easy to forget your car keys when you're tired after a long work day or when your mind is distracted by other things. But by following these tips you can ensure your keys don't disappear forever, and you have a backup plan for when they do.