How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Losing car keys is a major headache. This wasn't an issue until the last few years but as cars get more technologically advanced, it is becoming more difficult.
Sometimes, keys are lost because you've reached into your pockets for something else and accidentally thrown them away somewhere. You can avoid such situations by keeping a spare key at home.
1. Contact a locksmith
Losing your car keys can be a major inconvenience. But, there's also no need to be in a panic. If you know what to do and who to contact to get your car keys changed should be a matter of a few steps.
It is recommended to try retracing the steps you did. It might appear obvious, but it can be difficult to accomplish if you are in a rush or worried about losing your car keys. Be sure to inspect all bags and pockets to see where you might have set them down, and also the surrounding area around your vehicle.
If you've been unable to find your car keys, it's time to call locksmith. Typically, locksmiths will be able to create keys for your car much faster than the dealership. They can also do it for cheaper than a dealership would cost.
helpful site can create keys for cars that are replacements but they might not be able to do it in a hurry or even at all. They often have a very high volume of customers, so they may not be able accommodate you right away. Additionally, they might not be able create an exact copy of your current key.
Another option is to purchase a replacement car key online. You can find them on Amazon and other places at a much lower cost than what you'd purchase from a dealer however, they might not be able to cut and program them for your specific car model.
Certain insurance policies also provide coverage for the cost of replacing a lost or stolen car key. So, it's always worth checking to see if you have coverage that would help cover the cost of getting a new key for your vehicle. Remember that you'll need to provide proof of ownership to the person or business who makes the replacement key. This is legally required. If you're not able provide proof of ownership, it can be quite costly.
2. Call the Dealership
It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys was not a big deal. You could easily find keys replacements at the dealership and it wasn't too much to do it. However, with cars getting more technologically advanced and keys becoming more expensive to replace it's not as simple as it used to be. If you lose your keys today it's not unusual to spend hundreds of dollars to have them replaced.
You must be calm if you have lost your car keys. This will allow you to think clearly and make the right choice about how to resolve the problem. If you have lost your original keys you should keep an extra set of keys in your pocket or in your car trunk. This will ensure that you're not in financial trouble. Also, see if the key replacement is covered under your warranty or car insurance, which can help you save some money in a crisis.
The next step is to do a thorough search of your car, home and purse or wallet to find the missing keys. You can also go back through the steps you followed, and remember when you last held your keys and where you were when you lost them. This might help you figure out the location they went to, which can be an immense relief.
Call your dealership if you haven't been able to find your keys after a thorough search. Dealerships are familiar with the vehicle they are servicing and can provide you with keys to replace. They're often busy and are not able to accommodate customers who require a quick response. This can make the process frustrating.
If you contact your dealer, they will be able to create a key for you using the VIN number that is stored on their system. They can also reprogram the immobilizer system that is required to start your car. Locksmiths are a great option for those who want a fast, reliable solution without having to wait in the dealership.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys to your car was not a major issue. Locksmiths could come to your home and duplicate your keys for a reasonable price. As cars have become more technologically advanced, so too have the keys, and they're now more expensive to replace than ever.
Depending on the type of vehicle and year, replacing a lost key could be a lengthy procedure that could cost hundreds of dollars. It's always a smart idea to have an extra set of car keys in your possession. This is particularly true in the case of an area of danger or an area with a high rate of theft.
Although it might seem like a waste of time to contact your insurance company, it will save you money in the long run. Some policies will cover the cost of replacing a car key, so make sure to speak with your insurance provider prior to losing a key and you find yourself in need.
Another thing to think about is whether your insurance policy provides roadside assistance. If it does, the company might send someone out to help you with your situation which could be less stressful than dealing with a dealership or locksmith.
Be sure to thoroughly inspect your car prior to you call your insurance company. If you believe they're in the car, check the trunk and under the seat. If you're at home check the pockets of the clothes you were wearing as well as in other places where you may have a habit of putting them. Make sure you check any places you might have left them. For example, your purse or a cluttered office.
If you've managed to find the car keys it's an excellent idea to call your dealership to have them replaced. This isn't an issue, and it's cheaper than calling a locksmith or going to the insurance company.
While you're at the dealer it is possible to inquire whether you can have a spare key made, particularly when you don't have a key fob. The dealership is usually able to create an additional key for you, without having to change anything else in your car. If you do this, make sure to keep the key in a safe and secure place so that you can locate it the when you lose it.
4. Contact the police
Reporting your lost car keys will help you locate the keys and keep you safe. If someone steals your car without permission, they may be subject to fines for driving it on streets in the city or on private property. You can protect yourself by reporting your keys stolen before someone else steals your car. This will leave a trail of paper that reveals the time and date of the theft.
Losing car keys is a common problem however it doesn't have to be to be a disaster. car lost key can obtain a replacement car key quickly and easily if you make contact with the right people. If you follow the tips in this article, you'll even be able to avoid the possibility of losing your key again!
Try to trace your steps. This will give you a clear idea of where the key might be, and it can also help you remember what you were doing at the time. If you were driving to work, then stopped at a restaurant in order to take a bite, you may remember that keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you cannot find your key, you could have put it in the bag you used to carry around things or on the table you ate at.
Another option is to publish your most important loss online. This will reach a large audience and increase the chances of finding it. You can also look up local businesses and community bulletin boards.
Before you start looking for your keys, you need to note down the VIN number of your vehicle. You'll need this information to replace your key It's crucial to keep it somewhere safe. It's common to find the VIN on your driver's license, but it can also be found on your insurance card or in the owner's manual of your vehicle.
Contact the police when you've exhausted other options. They'll be capable of providing you with an interim replacement for your car and also make a report that could come in handy should the keys ever be found.