How to Replace a Lost Car Key
Anyone who has lost their car keys know how frustrating it can be. There are ways to reduce the stress and costs associated with this.
First, make sure you've inspected every spot you could have placed them. If not, you'll have to call someone. You have several options to pick from:
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
A car key is an extremely small piece of metal which allows you to unlock and start your vehicle. It's not uncommon to lose your car key. The good thing is that it's simple to replace. No matter if you're dealing traditional key, or a high-tech smart key, this guide will teach you how to get back on the road swiftly and easily.
Many newer cars have keys that are designed to be "smart." This means they contain an electronic chip that has been programmed to work with a specific vehicle. You'll need to go to the dealership where you purchased your car to get a new key if you have a "smart" key. The dealer must match the new key to your particular vehicle, which means you'll have to wait for a few days before you're able to drive again.
If you're lucky, your dealer may have the key on hand and be able to hook it with your vehicle immediately. The dealer might charge a fee for this service. You may also visit locksmiths to replace your car keys for a lesser cost.
Find out whether there are spare keys before you contact an expert locksmith or dealer. If you do, keep them in a safe place where they're unlikely to be lost. Look for keys that are used or a replacement from the aftermarket. These keys are usually cheaper than buying a new key from the manufacturer.
The loss of a car's key can be a stressful experience, but it's not as bad as many people believe. It's not even as expensive as some people believe. If you know who to call, how to find the replacement key, and how to prevent any further losses You'll be back on the road in the blink of an eye. To avoid losing your keys, a great method is to create an area for them and always put them there after you use them. This will become an habit and make it easy to find your keys in case you lose them.
2. Contact Your Insurance Company
The loss of your car keys can be an incredibly frightening experience for anyone, no matter how careful you are. It's among the top three objects that people lose, and it can send a person into a panic and a whirlwind search to try to find their keys to their car. This isn't always a lost case and there are several ways to get the replacement of your car keys by insurance.
Depending on your situation, you may try to locate the key yourself, or contact the dealership and the car manufacturer for help. Some car dealers will create new keys for cars that are on their lot. However, it is typically more expensive than hiring locksmith. You may also be able to take advantage of roadside assistance for your car to pay the cost of a new key, dependent on the kind of vehicle and the insurance policy you have.
Before calling your insurance company, ensure that you have done an exhaustive check of your home and vehicle for keys. This will help you narrow down the area and provide you with a place to begin looking. Be sure to check all pockets along with the seat and under any cushions. You should also examine your wallet, purse, or backpack to ensure keys are still in there. replace lost car key can get your spare key copied at the locksmith's or dealer's shop to make a brand new key, without having to alter anything in your vehicle.
If you still can't find your keys, it may be time to notify the police. The police can create a lost and discovered report on your behalf and could be able locate the key or let you know that it was surrendered. This is a great method to stop your car from being taken. Be sure to check your phone for notifications of lost and found using apps such as Find My iPhone or iCloud. You can also use GPS trackers to find your car, if it's been abandoned.
3. Contact the Manufacturer of your car
Lost car keys are likely to be one of the most frustrating and inconvenient things you can lose, because it's nearly impossible to open or drive your vehicle without it. But don't be afraid It is a common occurrence, and there are solutions to can get it fixed quickly and easily.
If your car was constructed before 1981, a common replacement can be found at an area locksmith or some hardware stores. The keys are mechanical and don't require any additional technology such as transponders, chips or transponders. If you own a more modern or high-tech key, it may require replacement by a dealer or a professional locksmith. It could take longer, and you will require proof of ownership in order to receive the key.
Many of the latest vehicles available today come with a remote key that is also referred to as a "fob." These keys are far more advanced than traditional keys made of metal and require a specific fob reader to operate the vehicle. These keys are harder to replace and cost anywhere from $50 to $500. It is recommended to always have an extra.
Calling the dealership or locksmith is the easiest method to replace a lost car key. They'll be able to create the new key for you and are likely to be able to program it to your vehicle to allow it to open and close with the press of a button. However it's not always possible when you don't have the original key to program it.
If you've lost your car keys, attempt to retrace your steps as best you can. This will allow you to determine where they may have gone if they're not already located and could save you from having to search through your entire vehicle or home again in the future. You can also invest in a Bluetooth tracker to keep on your keychain. This will allow you to find your keys with an app on your smartphone.
4. Contact a locksmith
Car keys lost is a stressful experience. No matter how careful you are, it only takes an instant of distraction to lose your keys and you're left without the ability to get anywhere! Thankfully, there are some easy steps you can take to remedy this issue.
First and foremost, don't panic! lost car keys of your car keys can be a scary and overwhelming experience, but it's important to remain at peace and think about what you can do. Retrace your steps. Where did you last have them? This is an important step as it can help narrow your search. Check your pockets and other hidden places. Also, look behind and between the driver's and passenger's seats. Finally, don't forget to look over your bag or purse in case you suspect you may have left them there!
If you're still struggling to find your car keys, you need to call an expert locksmith. A locksmith can make new keys for your car and take out the old chip. This is a cheaper alternative than going back to the dealership, which is likely to charge you a premium for their services.
Another option is to search for discount replacement keys or key fobs online. Depending on the type of key you own you may be able to purchase an aftermarket model for less than it costs to purchase an entirely new key from the manufacturer. Shop around for someone who can cut and program the key in a way that can be used on your vehicle.
If you don't have a spare car key it's worth investing in one. Any locksmith can make a replacement car key for you if are driving a manual vehicle. If you have a key fob or smart key or another technologically advanced keys, you'll be required to contact the dealership to request an alternative.