How to Replace Lost Car Keys
It's an absolute nightmare to lose car keys. This wasn't a problem until recently but as cars get more technologically advanced, it's becoming more difficult.
Often you lose your keys because you've reached into your pockets for something else, and then accidentally dropped them off somewhere. You can avoid this by keeping a spare key in your home.
1. Call a Locksmith
The loss of your car keys can be a major inconvenience. But, there's no need to panic. If you know who to call and how to act it will only take a few steps to get your keys to your car replaced.
One of the first things you have to do is retrace your steps. It might seem simple, but it can be hard to do if you are in a rush or concerned about losing your car keys. Be sure to look in all of your bags and pockets in which you may have put them down, and also the area around your car.
If you haven't been able to locate your car keys, it's time to contact locksmith. Locksmiths can usually make keys for your car quicker than a dealership. Additionally, they are able to do it for a lot less than the dealership would charge you.
Some dealers are able to create replacement keys, but may not be able do this in the immediate future or at any time. There are many dealerships that receive an abundance of customers and therefore may not be able to accommodate you immediately. In addition, they might not be able create an exact duplicate of your key.
Another option is to buy an online replacement for your car key. The keys are available on Amazon and other websites for a price that is lower than you would pay the dealer. However, they might not have the ability to cut and program the keys to your specific car model.
Some insurance policies cover the cost to replace a stolen or lost vehicle key. It's worth checking to see whether you have coverage that will cover the cost of obtaining an additional key for your vehicle. Remember that you'll be required to provide proof of ownership and proof of identity to the company or individual who creates the replacement key. This is legally required. It can be very expensive if you're not able to provide proof of ownership.
2. Call the Dealership
Not too long ago losing - or losing your car keys was not an issue. You could easily find a replacement key from a dealership, and it didn't cost too much to get it done. However, this is no longer the case since cars are more sophisticated and keys are more expensive. If you lose your keys today it's not uncommon to pay hundreds of dollars to have them replaced.
If you've lost your car keys the first thing you must do is be calm. This will allow you to think clearly and make the best decision about how to solve the problem. It is also important to ensure that you have a backup set keys in your pocket or the trunk of your car, in case you lose the original keys, you won't be out any money at all. Check to see if your warranty or insurance covers the cost of a key replacement. This can help you save money in the event of a crisis.
The next step is to conduct an exhaustive search of your home, vehicle and purse or wallet for the missing keys. You can also retrace the steps you took, recollecting when you last had your keys and where you were at the time you lost them. This can help you find the location of your lost items, which is a relief.
Once you've done an exhaustive search but can't find your car keys, the next option is to contact your dealer. Dealerships are familiar with your vehicle and can give you an alternative key. However, they're typically busy and can't accommodate people on short notice, which can make the process frustrating.
If you can contact the dealership you're dealing with they'll be able to create an original key for you using the VIN number on file. They can also reprogram the immobilizer system that is required to start your vehicle. Locksmiths are a great option for those who want a fast and reliable solution, without having to wait in the dealership.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Not too long ago losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. 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 more expensive to replace than ever before.
Depending on your vehicle type and year, replacing a lost key could be a lengthy process and cost hundreds of dollars. It's always a smart idea to keep an extra set of car keys on hand. This is especially important if you live near an area of danger or a place with an extremely high rate of theft.
While it might seem like a waste of time to contact your insurance company, calling them can save you money in the long run. Certain policies will cover the cost of a brand new car key, so be sure to check with your insurance company before you lose one and find yourself in need.
If your policy covers roadside assistance, you should take into consideration this. If it does, the company might send someone out to assist you out of your situation and it could be less stressful than dealing with a dealership or locksmith.
Before you call your insurance company, be sure to search thoroughly for your keys. If you believe they're in the car, check the trunk and under the seat. If lost car key no spare at home, check the pockets of the clothes you were wearing as well as in other places you may have a habit of putting them. Check any places where you might have left them. For instance, in your purse or an unorganized office.
Call your dealer to replace the keys once you've attempted to find them. Most of the time this shouldn't be a problem, and it will be much cheaper than hiring a locksmith or working through an insurance company.
Ask the dealer to make an extra key for you, especially in the event that your car doesn't have a remote. In most cases you can have your dealership make a spare for you without changing anything else inside your car. If you do this, make sure to keep the key in a secure and safe place to locate it the next time you lose it.
4. Call the Police
Not only can reporting your lost car keys to police help you find the keys however, it can also help keep you safe from thieves. If someone drives your vehicle on public roads or on private property without permission, the individual could be charged with a fine. If you report your keys lost prior to the person making off with your vehicle, you'll be aware that you have an official paper trail of when the car went missing and who reported it.
The loss of car keys is a common problem however it doesn't have to be to be a disaster. You can obtain a replacement car key quickly and easily if you make contact with the right people. You can even prevent the possibility of losing keys in the future by following the guidelines that are provided in this article.
Retrace your steps. This will allow you to remember where you might have lost your key. If you were driving to work and then stopped at a restaurant to get some food, you may remember that your keys were in your pocket when you left your vehicle. If you can't locate your keys, you may have left it in the bag you used to carry around things or on the table you dined at.
Posting your lost key online is a great idea. This will be seen by a large audience and increase your chances of finding it. You can also contact local businesses and other community bulletin boards.
Before you start looking for your keys, you need to write down the VIN number of your vehicle. You'll need this information to replace your keys therefore it's essential to keep it in a safe place. You can usually find the VIN on your driver's licence, but it's also sometimes printed on your insurance card or in the owner's manual of your vehicle.
If you've exhausted all other options and have exhausted all other options, it's time to contact the police. You can get an interim replacement vehicle from the police department, and they will also file an investigation report that can be helpful in the event that your keys are recovered.