How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Losing car keys is a nightmare. In the past, this wasn't a huge problem, but it's now becoming more complicated as cars get technologically advanced.
Sometimes, keys are lost because you've reached inside your pockets for something else, and then accidentally dropped them off somewhere. You can avoid such situations by keeping a spare key in your home.
1. Contact a locksmith
Losing your car keys is a major inconvenience. But, there's no need to be in a panic. If you know what to do and who to call to get your car keys changed should only take a couple of steps.
One of the first things you need to do is try and try to retrace your steps. This may sound like an obvious step but it isn't easy to do when you're in a hurry or are already worried about the loss of keys to your car. Make sure to check all bags and pockets in which you've put them down, as well as the surrounding area around your vehicle.
Call a locksmith if you can't find your car keys. Locksmiths can usually create keys for your car faster than the dealership. Plus, they can usually do it for a lot less than the dealership would charge you.
Some dealerships are able to create keys for replacement to cars but they might not be able to do it for you immediately or at all. They often have a very high volume of customers, so they may not be able to assist you right away. In addition, they may not be able to create an exact copy of your current key.
You can also purchase a replacement key online. Keys can be purchased on Amazon and other websites for a price that is lower than you would buy from an auto dealer. However, they might not be able to cut and program the keys to your specific car model.
Certain insurance policies also cover the cost of replacing a lost or stolen car key. It's worth checking whether you have insurance which will help pay for the cost of obtaining a new key for your car. Be aware that you'll need show proof of ownership to the person or business who is responsible for creating your replacement key. This is legally required. It can be very costly if you are unable to prove ownership.
2. Contact the Dealership
Not too long ago, misplacing - or even losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could easily find a replacement key from the dealership and it wasn't too much to do it. However, this is not the case anymore, because cars are more modern and keys are more expensive. It's not uncommon to pay hundreds of dollars for a brand new set of keys in the event that you lose them today.
You need to act calmly if you have lost your car keys. This will help you think clearly and make the best decision about how to solve the problem. If you have lost your original keys you should keep a spare set of keys in your purse or in your car trunk. This will ensure that you're not out of money. Also, determine if the replacement is covered under your warranty or insurance for your car and can assist you in saving cash in the event of a need.
Next, search your vehicle, your home and purse, or your wallet for keys missing. You can also go back through the steps you followed, and remember the last time you had your keys and where you were at the time you lost them. This can help you find out where they are, which is a great relief.
Contact your dealer if you aren't able to locate your keys after a thorough search. Dealerships are aware of your vehicle and can supply you with keys to replace. However, they're typically full and cannot accommodate people on short notice, which could make the process difficult.
If you can contact your dealership they'll be able to create a new key for you in accordance with the VIN number that is on file. They can also modify the immobilizer system which is needed to start your car. Locksmiths are a good option if you want a quick, reliable solution without having to wait in the dealership.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
It wasn't long ago that misplacing car keys was not a big issue. A locksmith could visit your home and duplicate your keys for an affordable cost. However, as cars have become more technologically advanced, so have the keys, and they're now more expensive to replace than ever before.
Depending on the type of vehicle and year the replacement of a lost key can be a long procedure that could cost hundreds of dollars. That's why it's always recommended to keep an additional set of keys on your side, especially if you reside in a neighborhood that is dangerous or an area where theft is a common occurrence.
It might seem like a waste of time to call your insurance provider but it can actually save you money over time. Check with your agent to determine whether you can obtain a replacement car key covered by your policy.
Another thing to consider is whether your insurance policy provides roadside assistance. If you have roadside assistance, a person could come to your aid. This is a much less stressful option than dealing with a dealer or locksmith.
Be sure to thoroughly inspect your car prior to you call your insurance company. If you believe they're in the car, search in the trunk and underneath the seat. Examine the pockets of your clothes and other places you might have been accustomed to putting them. Check any places where you might have left them. For example, your purse or a cluttered office.
If replace lost car keys 've managed to locate the keys to your car It's an excellent idea to call your dealer to get them replaced. This isn't an issue and is cheaper than calling an locksmith or calling the insurance company.
Ask the dealer to make a spare key for you, specifically if your car doesn't have an remote. In most cases the dealership will be able to make an extra key for you, without altering anything else in your vehicle. If you do this make sure you keep the key in a location that is safe and secure so you can find it in the event that you lose it.
4. Call the Police
Not only does reporting your lost car keys to police help you locate the keys however, it can also help keep you safe from thieves. If a person drives your car on public roads or private property without permission, the person may be fined. If you report your keys lost before the person makes off with your vehicle, you'll know that there's a legal paper trace of when it went missing and who reported it.
Car keys are lost is a common problem, but it doesn't have to be a disaster. You can obtain a replacement car key quickly and easily if make contact with the right people. If you follow the suggestions in this article, you'll even be able to avoid any future key loss!
Take a step back. This will give you a clear idea of where your key could have gone missing and will help you remember what you were doing at the time. If you were driving to work and then stopped at a restaurant in order to take a bite You may recall that keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you are unable to locate the key, it may be in the bag you used to carry things around or on the table at which you sat down for dinner.
Another good idea is to publish your most important loss online. This will increase the likelihood of finding the key by reaching a wider audience. You can also look up local businesses and community bulletin boards.
Before you begin searching for your keys, be sure to note down the VIN number of your vehicle. This information is required to replace your keys, which is why you must keep it safe. You can usually find the VIN on your driver's license, but it's also sometimes printed on your insurance card or in the owner's manual of your vehicle.
If you've exhausted all other options and have exhausted all other options, it's time to contact the police. They'll be capable of providing you with a temporary replacement for your vehicle, and they can also file a report that will be useful if the keys are ever found.