The Complete Guide To Lost Car Keys
How to Replace Lost Car Keys
The loss of car keys is a major headache. This wasn't a problem until recently but as cars get more technologically advanced, it is becoming more difficult.
Sometimes, keys are lost because you've reached inside your pocket for something else and have accidentally knocked them off somewhere. A spare key in the house can save you from such situations.
1. Contact a locksmith
Losing your car keys is an extremely frustrating experience. But, there's no need to be in a panic. If you know who to call and how to act it will only take only a few steps to get your keys to your car replaced.
You should try to retrace the steps you made. This may appear obvious however it can be hard to do if you are in a hurry or already concerned about losing your car keys. Check all your pockets, bags and the area around your vehicle.
Contact a locksmith in case you cannot locate your car keys. Locksmiths are usually in a position to make an entirely new key for your vehicle more quickly than a dealership. In lost keys car , they will usually complete the task for much less than what a dealership would charge you.
Some dealerships can create replacement keys, but might not be able to do it in the immediate future or at any time. They often have a very high volume of customers, so they may not be able to assist immediately. In addition, they may not be able create an exact copy of your current key.
You can also purchase an online replacement key. You can find these on Amazon and other websites for a lot less than what the price you buy from a dealer, but they may not be able to cut them and program them for your specific car model.
Some insurance policies also provide coverage for the cost of replacing a lost or stolen car key. Therefore, it's worthwhile to check whether you have coverage which will help pay for the cost of purchasing a new key for your vehicle. Be aware that you'll need provide proof of ownership to the person or company who creates the replacement key. This is required by law. It can be very expensive if you are not able to prove ownership.
2. Contact the Dealership
A few years ago, misplacing - or even losing - your car keys wasn't an issue. You could easily find a replacement key from a dealership, and it didn't cost too much to do so. However, as cars become more technologically advanced and keys becoming more expensive to replace it's not as simple as it was in the past. If you have lost your keys today, it's not unusual to spend hundreds of dollars to have them replaced.
If you've lost your car keys, the first thing you should do is be calm. This will help you think clearly and make the best choice about how to resolve the problem. You should also make sure that you have a backup set of keys somewhere, like in your pocket or in the trunk of your car, in case you lose the originals they won't cost you any money. It is also important to find out if the replacement key is covered under your warranty or car insurance which could help you save cash in the event of a need.
Then, look in your car, your house, your purse, or your wallet for keys missing. You can also try to retrace your steps, recollecting the last place you had keys and the location you were in when you lost them. This will help you figure out where they are which is a relief.
After you've conducted an exhaustive search but are unable to locate your car keys, the next step is to contact your dealership. Dealerships are familiar with your specific vehicle, so they're the best option for a replacement key. However, they're usually full and cannot accommodate people at short notice, which can cause the process to be frustrating.
If you're able to contact the dealership you're dealing with, they'll be able to create an original key for you based on the VIN number that is on file. They can also modify your immobilizer, which is necessary to start your car. If you're looking for an immediate, reliable solution that doesn't require waiting at the dealership, a locksmith could be a better choice.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Not too long ago, misplacing your car keys was not an issue. Locksmiths could come to your home and duplicate your keys for a reasonable price. As cars have become more technologically advanced, so have the keys, and they're now more expensive to replace than ever before.
Depending on your vehicle type and year the replacement of a lost key could be a lengthy process that can cost hundreds of dollars. It's always a smart idea to keep an extra set of car keys in your pocket. This is especially important in the case of an area that is prone to danger or an area that has an extremely high rate of theft.
Although it might seem like an unnecessary effort to call your insurance company, it can save you money in the end. Some policies will cover the cost of a new car key, so be sure to check with your insurance agent before you lose a key and find yourself in need.
If your policy provides roadside assistance, you should think about this. If you have roadside assistance, someone might be able to help you. This is a much less stressful option than dealing with a dealer or locksmith.
Before calling your insurance company, be sure to thoroughly search for your keys. If you believe they're in the car, look in the trunk and under the seat. If you're at home, check the pockets of the clothes you were wearing and in other places you may have a habit of placing them. Make sure you check any places you might have left them. For example, your purse or an unorganized office.
After you've tried to locate your keys to your car It's recommended to contact your dealer to have them replaced. Most of the time, this won't be a problem, and it is much less expensive than hiring a locksmith, or going through the insurance company.
While you're at the dealer, you might want to ask whether you can have a spare key made, especially if you don't have a key fob. The dealership is usually able to create an additional key for you without needing to alter any other part of your car. If you choose to do this, be sure you keep the key in a safe and secure place so that you can locate it the next time you lose yours.
4. Call the Police
Reporting lost car keys will help you locate the keys and keep you safe. If someone drives your car on public roads or private property without permission, the individual may be fined. If you report the keys missing before the person gets away with your car, you'll know that you have an official paper trail of when it was missing and who reported it.
The loss of car keys is a common occurrence however it doesn't have to be to be a disaster. You can obtain a replacement car key quickly and easily if contact the right people. You can also prevent future key misplacements by following the guidelines given in this article.
Take a step back. This will help you recall where you might have lost your keys. If you were driving to work and then stopped at a restaurant to take a bite and drinks, you might remember that your keys were in your pocket as you left the vehicle. If you are unable to locate your keys, you may have left it in the bag that you used to carry around things or at the table that you ate at.
Another good idea is to post your key loss online. This will be seen by a large audience and increase the chances of finding it. You can also check local businesses and bulletin boards in the community.
It is essential to note down the VIN of your vehicle before you start searching for your keys. You'll require this information to replace your key therefore it's essential to keep it in a safe place. You can usually find the VIN on your driver's licence, but it can also be found on your insurance card or in the owner's manual for your car.
Call the police once you've exhausted other options. You can request a temporary replacement car from the police department, and they'll also submit reports that are useful in the event that your keys are found.