How to Replace Lost Car Keys
The loss of car keys is a major headache. Not long ago this was not a big issue, but it's becoming more complicated as cars get technologically advanced.
Most of the time, you lose your keys due to the fact that you've reached into your pocket for something else, and then accidentally dropped them off somewhere. A spare key at home will help you avoid these situations.
1. Contact a locksmith
It's a fact that losing your car keys can be a huge hassle. There's no need to panic. If you know who to contact and how to act 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 might sound like a straightforward step, but sometimes it isn't easy to do when you're in a rush or are already worried about the loss of keys to your car. Be sure to look in all bags and pockets to see in which you've put them down, as well as the area around your car.
Call a locksmith if you are unable to locate your car keys. Locksmiths are able to create keys for your car quicker than the dealership. Plus, they can usually do it for a lot less than the dealership would charge you.
Some dealers are able to make replacement keys, but they may not be able to do this in the immediate future or at any time. There are many dealerships with many customers which means they may not be able to help you right away. In addition, they may not be able to make an exact copy of your key.
You can also purchase a replacement key online. You can find them on Amazon and other places at a much lower cost than what the price you pay at a dealer, however, they might not be able to cut or program them for your specific car model.
Certain insurance policies cover the cost to replace a stolen or lost vehicle key. It's worth checking to see if you have coverage that would help cover the cost of getting a new key for your car. Remember to show proof of ownership to the person or company who makes the replacement key. This is required by the law. It can be extremely expensive if you are not able to prove ownership.
2. Contact the Dealership
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing or losing your car keys was not an issue. It was easy to get an alternative key from the dealership and it wasn't too much to do so. This is not the case anymore, as cars are more advanced and keys are more expensive. If you have lost your keys today, it's not unusual to spend hundreds of dollars to have them replaced.
If you've lost your car keys, the first thing you must do is to act in a calm manner. This will help you think clearly and make the right decision on how to fix the problem. If you have lost your original keys, you should keep a spare set of keys in your pocket or car trunk. This will ensure you're not out of money. Find out whether your warranty or insurance covers the cost of a replacement key. This could help you save money in an emergency.
Then, look in your car, your home or your purse your wallet for missing keys. You may try to retrace your steps, keeping track of where you last had keys and the location you were in when you lost them. This may be able to help you figure out where they ended up and could be a huge relief.
If you've completed a thorough search and can't locate your car keys, the next step is to call your dealership. Dealerships are familiar with your particular vehicle, which is why they're the best place to go to get a replacement key. However, they're typically full and cannot accommodate people on short notice, which could make the process frustrating.
If you get in touch with your dealer, they will be able to make keys for you based on the VIN number that is recorded on their system. They can also modify your immobilizer system which is required to start your vehicle. Locksmiths are a good option when you need a quick and reliable solution that doesn't require you to wait in the dealership.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys to cars was not a major issue. A locksmith could come to your home and duplicate your keys at an affordable price. As cars have become technologically advanced, keys are also becoming more expensive.
Based on the type of vehicle and the year the process of replacing a lost car key can take several steps and cost you hundreds of dollars. It's always a good idea to keep an additional set of keys for your car on hand. This is especially true if you live near an area that is prone to danger or an area with an extremely high rate of theft.
While it might seem like it's a waste of time to contact your insurance company, calling them will save you money in the long run. Talk to your agent to determine whether you can obtain a replacement car key covered by your policy.
Another thing to consider is whether your insurance policy provides roadside assistance. If you have roadside assistance, a person might be able to help you. This is a less stressful option than dealing with a dealership or locksmith.
Before calling your insurance company, be sure to thoroughly search for your keys. If you think they're in your car, try looking in the trunk and under the seat. Examine the pockets of your clothing and other places where you may have gotten used to placing them. Double-check any places you may have left them. For example, your purse or a cluttered office.
Contact your dealer for replacement of the keys once you've attempted to locate them. This is usually not an issue, and it's cheaper than calling an locksmith or calling the insurance company.
Ask the dealer to make an extra key for you, especially if your car doesn't have a remote. The dealership will usually be able to duplicate an additional key for you without having to alter anything else in your car. If you choose to do this, be sure to keep the key in a secure and safe place to locate it the when you lose it.
4. Call the Police
Not only will reporting your lost car keys to the police help you find them, but it also helps protect you from thieves. If someone steals your car without permission, they could be fined when they drive it on city streets or private property. You can help protect yourself by reporting your keys stolen prior to someone stealing your car. This leaves a trace on paper that reveals the time and date of the theft.
Car keys are lost is a common problem however it doesn't have to be to be a catastrophe. You can obtain a replacement car key quickly and easily if contact the right people. You can also avoid any future key loss by following the guidelines given in this article.
Take a step back. This will give you a clear idea of where your key could be and can help you remember what you were doing at the time. If you were driving to work, then went to a restaurant to get some food, you may remember that your keys were in your pocket as you left the vehicle. If you are unable to locate your keys, it could be in the bag you carried things around or on the table at which you sat down to eat.
Another good idea is to share your primary loss online. This will increase the likelihood of finding the culprit by bringing it to a wider audience. You can also check with local businesses and other community bulletin boards.
Recommended Web site is essential to note down the VIN of your car before you begin searching for your keys. You'll need this information to replace your key It's crucial to keep it in a safe place. The VIN is usually found on your driver's licence, however, it can also be found on your insurance card and in your car's owner's manual.
If you've exhausted all other options then it's time to call the police. You can obtain an interim replacement vehicle from the police, and they'll also submit an investigation report that can be helpful should your keys ever be recovered.