How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Losing car keys is a major headache. This was not an issue until recently but as cars get more technologically advanced, it's becoming more difficult.
Most of the time, you lose your keys because you've reached inside your pocket to find something else, and then accidentally thrown them away somewhere. You can avoid such situations by keeping a spare key at home.
1. Call a Locksmith
The loss of your car keys can be an enormous inconvenience. There's no need to panic. If you know what to do and who to contact, getting your car keys replaced should only take a couple of steps.
It is recommended to try retracing the steps you did. It might seem obvious, but it can be difficult to do if are stressed or worried about losing your car keys. Be sure to look in all your bags and pockets in which you've put them down, and also the space around your car.
Contact a locksmith in case you are unable to locate your car keys. Locksmiths can usually create keys for your car much faster than a dealership. Plus, they can usually complete the task for much cheaper than the dealership will charge you.
Some dealerships can make replacement keys, but they might not be able to do it immediately or at any time. There are many dealerships that receive many customers which means they may not be able to help your request immediately. They may also not be able to create a exact copy of your existing key.
You can also purchase an online replacement key. You can find them on Amazon and other websites at a much lower cost than what you'd buy from a dealer, however, they might not be able to cut and program them to your specific model of car.
Certain insurance policies also cover the cost of replacing a lost or stolen car key. Therefore, it's worth checking to see if you have coverage that will cover the cost of getting the new key for your vehicle. Be aware that you'll need provide proof of ownership to the person or company who makes your replacement key. This is required by law. It can be extremely expensive if you're not able to provide proof of ownership.
2. Contact the Dealership
In the past losing - or losing your car keys was not an issue. You could easily get keys replacements from the dealership and it didn't cost much to get it done. However, this is not the case anymore, because cars are more modern and keys are more expensive. It's not unusual to pay hundreds of dollars for a brand new set of keys when you lose them.
You need to act calmly if you have lost your car keys. This will help you think clearly and make the right decision. If you have lost your original keys you should keep a spare set of keys in your pocket or in your car trunk. This will ensure that you are not in financial trouble. Make sure to check whether your warranty or insurance covers the cost of a replacement key. This can help you save money in an emergency.
Next, search your car, your house, your purse, or your wallet for keys missing. You could also retrace the steps you followed, and remember the last time you had your keys and where you were at the time you lost them. This will help you figure the location of your lost items, which is a relief.
Once you've done an exhaustive search but are unable to find your car keys, the next option is to contact your dealer. Dealerships are familiar with your particular vehicle, which is why they're the best option for a new key. However, they're usually full and cannot accommodate people on short notice, which can make the process difficult.
If you are able to get in touch with the dealership, they'll be able to create a key for you using the VIN number that is saved on their system. They can also reprogram the immobilizer device that's required to start your car. However, if you're looking to find an immediate, reliable solution that doesn't require waiting at the dealership, a locksmith may be the best option.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Not so long ago, misplacing your car keys was not an issue. You could call a locksmith to travel to your place of residence and duplicate your keys for a reasonable price. However, as cars have become more technologically advanced, so have the keys, and they're more expensive to replace than they were before.
Based on the type of car you drive and year, replacing a lost key can be a lengthy process and cost hundreds of dollars. This is why it's recommended to keep an additional set of keys on hand, especially if you reside in a dangerous area or in a location where theft is a common occurrence.
It might seem like a waste to call your insurance provider but it can actually save you money in the long run. Some policies will cover the cost of replacing a car key, so be sure to inquire with your insurance company before you lose a key and find yourself in need.
Another thing to think about is whether your insurance policy offers roadside assistance. If you have roadside assistance, someone could come to your aid. This is less stressful than dealing with a dealer or locksmith.
Before calling your insurance company, make sure to search thoroughly for your keys. If you believe they're in the car, check inside the trunk and beneath the seat. If you're at home check the pockets of the clothes you were wearing and in other places you might have a habit of placing them. You should also check the areas where you might have left them, like your purse or a cluttered desk.
Once you've done your best to find the car keys it's an excellent idea to call your dealer to have them replaced. This is usually not an issue, and it's cheaper than calling an locksmith or calling the insurance company.
While you're at the dealership, you might want to inquire whether you can have a spare key made, particularly when you don't have an actual key fob. Your dealership can usually clone an extra key for you, without having to alter any other part of your car. If you do this, make sure to keep the key in an area that is safe and secure so that you can retrieve it again if you lose it.
4. Contact g28carkeys can reporting your lost car keys to the police help you locate them, but it also helps protect you from thieves. If someone steals your car without permission, they may be subject to fines for driving it on city streets or on private property. You can safeguard yourself by registering your keys stolen before someone else steals your car. This will leave a paper trail that reveals who and when they reported the theft.
It's a common problem to lose your car keys, however it doesn't need to be a disaster. You can obtain a replacement car key quickly and easily if call the right people. You can also prevent future key misplacements by following the suggestions provided in this article.
Try to trace your steps. This will give you a good idea of where your key could have been lost and can help you remember what you were doing at the time. If you were driving to work and then stopped at a restaurant to purchase food, you may remember that your keys were in your pockets when you left your vehicle. If you can't locate your key, you might have put it in the bag you used to carry around things or on the table you dined at.
Another option is to post your key loss online. This will increase your chances of finding the culprit by reaching a larger audience. You can also contact local businesses and other community bulletin boards.
It is essential to note down the VIN of your car before you start searching for your keys. You'll need this information to replace your key, so it's important to keep it in a safe place. You'll usually find the VIN on your driver's license, but it may also appear on your insurance card or in the owner's manual of your car.
After you've exhausted all other options and have exhausted all other options, it's time to contact the police. You can obtain an emergency replacement car from the police department, and they'll also file a report which is useful should your keys ever be found.