How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Things tend to get cheap lost car key replacement in the hustle of getting kids to and from school, running errands and working. Car keys are one of the most commonly lost items.

In the past you could easily replace this at your local hardware or locksmith store. However, this isn't the case anymore.

1. Call Your Car Dealership

If you lose your car key, the first place you should call is your car dealer. The majority of dealers keep a record of every key that they have made for their cars, so they should be able to find your key. It's expensive to go to a dealership and you should shop around. You might be able locate a lower cost solution through an automotive locksmith.

It is likely that you will need to provide the dealership with your vehicle identification number, or VIN, and proof of ownership (such as a copy of your registration or title) to get a replacement key. The dealership will then purchase the new key and then pair it with your vehicle. This could be a long process, and you will need to wait for the dealer to finish the process.

Many vehicles today have the special kind of key called a smart key. These keys are designed to use proximity sensors to be activated within the car, allowing keyless entry and start. They are usually paired with ignitions that are push-to-start. You can purchase a new smart key from a dealership, but the price is quite expensive. A local auto locksmith can make the smart key for about half the cost of what you'd pay at the dealership.

You can also purchase a classic key replacement from a local hardware store. They can design an ordinary lock cylinder key. They'll need to know the model year of your car and the VIN. If you cannot locate the VIN on your car it will be engraved on a metal plaque located on the dashboard or the driver's doorpost. Most locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to offer the replacement for your car key even if you don't have the original. However, in certain instances they may have to take apart the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. This is not a dangerous job for a professional, but it does require some mechanical knowledge and skill.

2. Contact a Locksmith

Misplacing your car keys is among of the most common reasons for roadside assistance and calls. It is essential to keep a spare key on you and ensure you keep it in a safe place. However even the most vigilant people can lose their car keys. It is important to look for the car key and notify your insurance company immediately if you find it. This will decrease the chances of your claim being rejected later should your key be found stolen.

Contacting a locksmith is the next best option in the event that you don't have an extra key. A locksmith can generally provide a replacement key for less than what the dealership will cost. They may also come to your location to create the key on the spot, which is more convenient than having your car brought back to the dealer.

The kind of car key you have could affect the cost to replace it. The most affordable keys are traditional keys that are available at many hardware stores. They cost about $10 per key. If your car has an ignition key fob that functions as a remote and can unlock and start the engine, or a smart key, cheap lost car key replacement which can only be changed by dealers the keys will typically cost more than the standard key.

A locksmith can replace a smart key or key fob in most cases so long as they have the VIN number for your vehicle. This number is typically found on the metal plate on the driver's doorpost or on the windshield. They will need evidence of ownership, like your registration or title.

Always do your research before hiring locksmith. You can find reputable auto locksmiths on the internet or asking family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using a fake key to start your vehicle could cause a breach of warranty. The use of keys that are not authorized could cause damage to the lock of your vehicle. If you aren't willing to risk this is a good idea to contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith and wait for your replacement key from the dealer.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

One of the most dangerous things you can do when you lose your car keys is to panic. The first thing you should do is to take an inhale and try to think about the situation. It is more likely you lost your keys than they were stolen. The next step is to go back your steps and try to determine where they went missing. It may help to look around in places that you don't normally look, such as pockets in your pants or coat, or in a bag you carry around when running. After you've inspected these areas, you should call your insurance company.

Modern cars come with electronic keys that communicate with chips with the car. This communication lets the car recognize the key fob and unlock the doors, as well as start the engine. If you lose your keys, it's important to report it immediately to ensure that anyone who isn't authorized aren't able to enter your vehicle and use it.

Certain insurance companies provide an add-on to their policy that will cover the cost of replacing a key for your car. It is worth contacting your insurance provider to determine whether they provide this kind of coverage or if they can locate an individual locksmith who will cover the cost.

If your car has a standard mechanical key, you can typically get it replaced at any hardware store for a small fee. If your car is equipped with an electronic key that is connected to your car via the chip, you will have to visit the dealership to obtain an alternative. It's expensive, but it is much cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.

In the event of filing an insurance claim due to a stolen car key can increase your insurance premiums. Your insurance company may raise your premiums due to the fact that they'll consider you to be an extremely risky driver in the event of losing your key. Fortunately, you can often reduce the costs by purchasing a tracking device to track your lost keys for car car key or having a locksmith create an entirely new key without copying the original.

4. Call towing truck

It's the most gruelling thing to lose your car keys and nobody wants it to happen. If it does happen, it can be expensive to replace the key and get back on the road. This is why it's important to be prepared in case it does, so you don't have to call an tow truck and keep your cash in your wallet.

If you've lost your car keys, the very first step is to retrace your steps. This will help you figure out exactly where they are and aid in calming your panic. You may remember doing something at the supermarket, or dropping your keys on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you find your starting point.

If you cannot find your keys, look in places you might have placed them, like the pockets of the clothing you were wearing, Cheap lost Car key replacement or the bag you carried them in to take them home. If you are unable to find them, take a moment to relax before calling an locksmith or a tow truck.

A key tracker with bluetooth can be used on your phone. These are tiny devices that you can attach to your keyring, and also have an app installed on your phone that can show you where your keys are, so you don't have to look through every drawer or pocket in your house.

The cost of replacing a lost car key can be a bit expensive according to the type of key you own. If you own a traditional key, an automotive locksmith can usually make a new one in a matter of minutes without the original one, which will save you some money. If you are using a smart-key car lost that utilizes a proximity detector to open the doors or start the engine of your vehicle then you'll need to visit the dealership to get a replacement.

It's important to have a plan in case you lose your car keys so that you can save yourself the headache of having to pay for a tow truck or a locksmith. If you're exhausted or distracted, it's easy to lose your car keys. But by following these tips, you can make sure that your keys don't vanish forever, and you have a backup plan for when they do.