How to Replace a Lost Car Key
Lost car keys are a nightmare for anyone to deal with. There are ways to reduce the stress and cost related to this.
First, make sure that you've inspected every spot you could have put them. If not, you'll need to call someone. There are several different options to think about:
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
A car key is a small piece of steel that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle. It's not uncommon to lose your car keys. The good news is, it's simple to replace. This guide will teach you how to swiftly and easily replace a standard car key, or an electronic key.
Smart keys are compatible with many of the latest models. They contain an electronic chip programmed to only work with that vehicle. If you have a smart key, you'll need to go to the dealership where you purchased your car to obtain an alternative key. The dealer will have to match the key to your vehicle and, therefore, it's likely that you'll need to wait a couple of days before you are able to drive again.
If you're lucky the dealer you go to will have the key in stock and will be able to pair it with your car immediately. However, the dealer could charge you a premium for this service. You can also visit locksmiths who can repair the car key at the price of a lesser amount.
Find out whether you have spare keys before you contact a dealer or locksmith. Store them in a location in which you're not likely to lose keys. Also, think about looking for an used or second-hand key replacement online. These are often available for less than it would cost to get a new key from the manufacturer.
The loss of a car key can be extremely stressful, but it's not as bad as people think. It's also not as costly as many think. You'll be back in your car in no time if know what to do, who to call, where you can get a replacement and how to avoid further loss. One way to avoid losing keys is to make an area to store them in, and then always place them there when you're done using them. This will become a habit and make it easier to locate your keys if you lose them.
2. Contact Your Insurance Company
However careful you are, losing your car keys could be a terrifying experience. It's one of the top three most misplaced items people lose and can put people in an anxiety and a chaotic search to try to find their car keys again. This is not always a lost case, and there are several ways to get the replacement of your car keys covered by insurance.
Depending on your situation, you may try to locate the key yourself or contact the dealership and your car manufacturer for help. Some car dealers can create a new key to cars on their lot, however, it's generally more expensive than working with locksmiths. You may also be able to use roadside assistance coverage for your car to cover the cost of a new key, depending on the type of car and your insurance policy.
Be sure to look through your car and home thoroughly for keys prior to you call your insurer. This will help you find the right area and give you an idea of where to start. Check all pockets, under the seat and in any other places. Also, check your wallet, purse, or backpack to ensure keys are still in there. If you have a spare, you can have this cloned by a locksmith or your dealer to create a new key without having to alter anything inside the vehicle.
If you're still not able to locate your keys after an exhaustive search, it could be time to call the police and report the missing car keys. The police will file a lost-and-found report on your behalf. They might be able to locate the key, or inform you know that it's been returned. This is an excellent way to prevent getting your car taken away. Don't forget to look up your phone for notifications of lost and found via apps like Find My iPhone or iCloud. You can also make use of GPS trackers to find your car if it's been abandoned.
3. Contact the manufacturer of your car
It's extremely frustrating to lose your car keys since it's usually impossible to open or drive your vehicle without it. However, don't worry 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 key can be purchased from the local locksmith shop or some hardware stores. They are purely mechanical and don't require any additional technology, such as chips or transponders. If you have an advanced or high-tech key, it will likely need to be replaced at the dealership or by an experienced locksmith. This could take longer, and you will require proof of ownership to obtain the key.
The remote key is an sophisticated version of the standard metal key, and requires a fob reader in order to operate. These kinds of keys are more difficult to replace and they can cost between $50-$500 and that's why it is always advisable to have a spare!
The easiest method to replace the car key that you lost is to contact the dealer or an auto locksmith. They'll be able to create an entirely new key for you, and most likely, they'll be able to program it to your vehicle to allow it to start and unlock with the press of one button. This is not always possible when the original key is not programmed.
If you've lost your car keys try to retrace as many of your steps as you can. This can help you determine where your keys may be if you haven't found them already. It also saves your time as you don't have to search for your house or vehicle in the future. You can also get an Bluetooth tracker to keep on your keychain. This will allow you to find your keys with an app on your phone.
4. Contact with a locksmith
The loss of car keys can be a frustrating experience. No matter how careful you are, it only takes an instant of distraction to lose your keys, and then you're stuck without the ability to get anywhere! Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to remedy this issue.
First and foremost, try not to be anxious! Losing your car keys can be a scary and overwhelming situation, but it's essential to stay calm and think about what you can do. Begin by retracing read on . What was the last place they went? This is a crucial step that can help narrow your search. Examine your pockets and other hiding places. It is also important to look behind the passenger and driver seats, as well as between them. Also, don't forget to examine your purse or backpack in the event that you suspect you have left it behind.
Call a locksmith in case you can't find your car keys. Locksmiths can design an entirely new car key and take out the old chip. This is a more cost-effective option than going back to the dealership which will likely charge a premium for their services.
Another option is to search for low-cost replacement keys or key fobs online. You may be able purchase an aftermarket key for less than you would spend to purchase new keys. However, keep in mind that you'll need to have someone who can cut and program the key before it can work on your vehicle, so be sure to look for a suitable alternative.
If you don't have an extra key for your vehicle, it is worth investing in one. If you have a manual vehicle it can be done by any locksmith who can make you a replacement key on the moment. If you have an electronic key fob or smart key, or any other technologically advanced key you will be required to contact the dealership for a replacement.