Is Lost Car Keys Just As Important As Everyone Says
How to Replace Lost Car Keys
The loss of car keys is a nightmare. In the past, it wasn't a big deal but it's getting more complicated as cars become technologically advanced.
Keys can be lost when you accidentally knock them off the table when you reach into your pocket to grab something else. You can prevent this from happening by keeping an extra key at home.
1. Contact an expert locksmith
Losing your car keys is an extremely frustrating experience. It's not a reason to be in a panic. If you know who to call and what to do you should only need to take only a few steps to get your car keys replaced.
One of the first things you have to do is retrace your steps. This may sound like a simple task but it isn't easy to do when you're in a hurry or are already worried about the loss of your car keys. Check all your pockets, bags and the area around your vehicle.
If you're unable to locate your car keys, you need to call an locksmith. Typically, locksmiths will be able to create an entirely new key for your car much faster than a dealership. Additionally, they are able to accomplish this for much less than what a dealership would charge you.
Some dealerships are able to create keys for cars that are replacements, but they may not be able to complete it for you immediately or at all. There are many dealerships that have a high volume of clients, so they might not be able accommodate your request immediately. They might not be able to create a exact copy of your existing key.
Another option is to purchase an online replacement for your car key. These keys can be found on Amazon and elsewhere for a price that is lower than what you would pay a dealer. However, they may not be able to cut and program keys that are specific to your car model.
Some insurance policies also cover the cost of replacing lost keys a stolen or lost car key. Therefore, it's worthwhile to check whether you have insurance that would help cover the cost of getting an additional key for your car. Be aware that you'll have to prove ownership and proof of identity to the person or company who makes the replacement key. This is required by the law. It could be costly if you are unable to prove ownership.
2. Call the Dealership
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing or losing your car keys wasn't an issue. It was easy to get keys replacements at the dealership, and it didn't cost too much to do so. However, with cars getting more advanced in technology and keys becoming more expensive to replace - this isn't as easy as it was in the past. If you lose your keys today it's not uncommon to pay hundreds of dollars to get them replaced.
If you've lost your car keys, the first thing you need to do is to act in a calm manner. This will enable you to think clearly and make an informed decision. If you have Lost my spare car key 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 out of money. Also, find out if the replacement key is covered by your warranty or insurance for your car and can assist you in saving money in a crisis.
The next step is to conduct an exhaustive search of your home, car and your purse or wallet to find keys that are missing. You can also retrace the steps you took, remembering the last time you had your keys and where you were at the time you lost them. This might help you figure out where they ended up and could be an immense relief.
If you've completed a thorough search and can't find your car keys, the next option is to contact your dealership. Dealerships are knowledgeable about your particular vehicle, which is why they're the best place to go to get a replacement key. However, they're usually busy and can't accommodate people with short notice, which can make the process difficult.
If you're able to contact your dealer they'll be able to create a new key for you using the VIN number that is on the file. They can also modify your immobilizer system that is needed to start your car. Locksmiths are a great option when you need a quick and reliable solution, without having to wait at the dealership.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
It wasn't long ago that losing your keys to your car was not a big issue. Locksmiths could come to your home and duplicate your keys for an affordable price. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced, keys have also become more expensive.
Based on the type of vehicle and the year the process of replacing keys for a car that have been lost can take a few steps and cost you hundreds of dollars. It's always a smart idea to have an extra set of car keys in your pocket. This is especially important if you live near a dangerous area or in a place with an abundance of theft.
It might seem like a waste of time to call your insurance provider, but it can save you money in the long run. Certain policies will cover the cost of a new car key, so be sure to check with your insurance provider prior to losing a key and you find yourself in need.
If your policy covers roadside assistance, you should take into consideration this. If you have roadside assistance, a person might be able to help you. This is less stressful than dealing with a dealership or locksmith.
Make sure you thoroughly search your car before you contact your insurance company. If you think they're in your car, check the trunk and under the seat. If you're at home check the pockets of the clothes you were wearing and in other places where you may be prone to putting them. Check any places where you might have left them. For example, your purse or a cluttered office.
Contact your dealer to replace the keys once you've attempted to find them. Most of the time this shouldn't be a problem and will be much cheaper than hiring a locksmith or working through an insurance company.
Ask the dealer to make a spare key for you, particularly if your car doesn't have a remote. The dealership is usually able to create an extra key for you without needing to change anything else in your vehicle. If you choose to do this, be sure you keep the spare key in a safe and secure location so that you can find it next time you lose it.
4. Call the Police
Not only will the act of reporting your lost car keys to the police help you find keys however, it can also help keep you safe from thieves. If someone drives your car on public roads or private property without permission, the individual could be charged with a fine. If you report your keys missing before the person makes off with your vehicle, you'll know that there's an official paper trace of when it went missing and who reported it.
It's not uncommon to lose keys to your car, but it doesn't have to be a major issue. If you contact the right people, you'll be capable of obtaining a replacement key quickly and quickly. If you follow the suggestions in this article, you'll even be able to prevent any future key loss!
Then, try retracing your steps. This will give you a clear idea of where your key could be, and it can also help you remember what you were doing at the time. For example, if you were returning home from work and then went to eat at an eatery, you might be able to recall that the keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you can't locate your key, you could have left it in the bag you used to carry around things or on the table you dined at.
Another good idea is to publish your most important loss online. This increases the chances of locating the key by reaching a wider audience. You can also inquire with local businesses and other community bulletin boards.
It's crucial to write down the VIN of your vehicle before you begin searching for your keys. This information is needed to replace your keys, so you should keep it in a safe place. The VIN is usually found on your driver's license but can also be found on your insurance card or in the owner's manual of your vehicle.
Contact the police when you've exhausted all other options. You can request an interim replacement vehicle from the police, and they'll also file an investigation report that can be helpful in the event that your keys are found.
