How to Replace Lost Car Keys
In the shuffle of sending children to school, running errands, and working things tend to get lost. Car keys are among of the most frequently lost items.
In the past, you could easily replace this at your local locksmith or hardware store. Today, it's not as easy.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
If you have lost your car key The first person you should contact is your car dealer. Most dealers keep a record of every key that is designed for their vehicles, so it should be easy for them to find your key. It is expensive to visit a dealer and therefore, you should research. You may be able get a lower price through a locksmith for cars.
In the majority of instances, you'll have to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and evidence of ownership, like an original registration or title, in order to obtain a replacement key from the dealer. The dealership will then purchase the new key and then pair it with your vehicle. The dealer will have to complete this lengthy process.
Many cars today are equipped with a special type of key known as a smart keys. They are designed to activate a proximity sensor inside the vehicle, which allows the use of a keyless entry system and even starting. These keys are typically used with ignitions that require a push-to start. You can purchase a brand new smart key at the dealership, but the cost is a bit expensive. Local auto locksmiths can give you a smart key for a fraction of the cost.
You can also purchase an old-fashioned key replacement from a local hardware store. They can create a standard key that is compatible with the lock cylinder of your vehicle. They'll need to know the model year of your vehicle and also the VIN. If you cannot locate the VIN on your car it will be engraved on a metal plaque located on the dashboard or doorpost. Even if you don't have the original, many locksmiths in the automotive industry can provide you with an alternate car key. In some instances the locksmith might need to disassemble the ignition and door locks in order to complete the task. It's not a risky job, but it does require some mechanical knowledge.
2. Contact for a locksmith
The misplacing of your car keys is one of the most common causes for roadside assistance and calls. Keep an extra car key with you and store it safely. Even the most careful people could lose their keys. It is important to thoroughly search for the keys and inform your insurance company as soon as possible to reduce the chance of being denied a claim if the key is found later stolen.
If you don't have a spare key, the best option is to contact an locksmith. Locksmiths can usually offer a replacement key for less than what a dealership would cost. They are also able to come out to your location and make the key right there which is more convenient than having to bring your vehicle back to the dealership.
The cost of replacing your car key will vary based on the kind of key you have. The most affordable keys are the standard keys that can be bought at many hardware stores. They are about $10 per key. If your car is equipped with an ignition key fob that acts like a remote and allows you to open and start the engine or a smart key which can only be replaced by dealers and will typically cost more than the standard key.
A locksmith can replace keys that are smart or fob in the majority of cases as long as they have the VIN number of your vehicle. This number is typically found on the metal plaque on the driver's doorpost, or on the windshield. They will need evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
G28 Car Keys is essential to conduct your research prior to hiring a locksmith. You can find reputable auto locksmiths by searching online, or asking family and friends for suggestions. Be aware that using a fake key to start your vehicle could result in a breach of warranty. The use of a key that is not authentic could cause damage to the lock of your car. If you don't want to risk it, it is best to call roadside assistance instead of a car locksmith and wait until your dealer delivers a new key.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
One of the most dangerous things you can do when you lose your car keys is to panic. Relax, and then try to think about your situation. It is more likely you lost your keys rather than they were stolen. So, the next step is to trace your steps and try to find out the place they disappeared. It may help to check places you don't normally look for items, like the pockets of your pants or coat, or in the bag you carry for running. After you've inspected all these places, it's a good idea call your insurance company.
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate through a chip with the car. This communication lets the car recognize the key fob and unlock the doors, and also start the engine. It is essential to inform the authorities of the loss of your key immediately to stop unauthorized persons from using your vehicle.
Certain car insurance companies provide an add-on to their policies that will cover the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. It is worth contacting your insurance provider to see whether they have this type of insurance or if you can locate an individual locksmith who will pay for the cost.
If your car has the standard mechanical key, you can replace it at most hardware stores for a small fee. If, however, your car has an electronic key fob that's connected to your car via the chip, you'll have go to the dealership to get an upgrade. It can be costly however it's much cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.
In addition to the cost of replacing your car keys, filing an insurance claim to replace a lost key can cause your car insurance rates to increase. Your insurance company may increase your premiums because they will consider you a high-risk driver because you lost your key. You can cut down on these additional costs by purchasing a tracking device that will track your lost keys or having a professional locksmith create a key without cloning the old key.
4. Contact a Tow truck
Everyone would hate to lose their car keys. It is the worst thing that can happen. However, if it does happen it could be costly to replace the key that was lost and get back on the road again. It is important to be prepared so that you don't have to call a tow-truck and keep your money.
Find your way back in case you've lost your keys. This will help you locate them and ease your anxiety. You might remember doing something at the supermarket or putting your keys on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you pinpoint the place to start.
If you can't locate your keys, look in places where you could have put them, such as the pockets of the clothing you were wearing, or in the bag that you carried them in to take them to home. If you are unable to find them, take a moment to relax, and then call a locksmith or a tow truck.
Another option is to make use of the bluetooth key tracker app on your phone. These are small devices that can connect to a keyring and an app on your smartphone will provide you with the whereabouts of your keys.
The cost of replacing a lost car key may vary dependent on the type of key that you have. If you own a traditional key an automotive locksmith will usually make a new one in a matter of minutes without the original, which will save you some money. If you are using a smart-key that utilizes a proximity detector to open doors or start your car's engine then you'll need to visit the dealership to get a replacement.
It is essential 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 the tow truck or locksmith. When you're tired or distracted, it's not difficult to lose your car keys. If you follow these steps, you can ensure that your keys don't disappear forever, and have a back-up plan in case they do.