How to Replace a Lost Car Key
Car keys that are lost can be a nightmare to handle. There are ways to minimize the stress and cost related to this.
Check all possible places you may have placed them. If not, it's time to contact someone. There are several options to choose from:
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
A car key is an extremely tiny piece of metal that allows you to start and unlock your vehicle. It's not uncommon to lose a car key, but the good news is that it's generally easy to replace. This guide will teach you how to quickly and easily replace a standard car key, or smart key.
Smart keys are offered for many newer vehicles. They are equipped with an electronic chip programmed to work only with that vehicle. You'll need to go to the dealer where you purchased your car to purchase an additional key if you have an "smart" key. The dealer must match the new key to the specific vehicle, which means you'll be waiting for a few days before you're able to drive again.
If you're lucky, your car dealer will have the key in stock and be able to pair it with your vehicle immediately. However, the dealer could charge a fee for this service. You may also visit a locksmith to get your car keys replaced at a cheaper price.
Examine if there are spare keys available before you call an agent or locksmith. Store read full article in a location that you aren't likely to lose keys. Also, think about looking for a used or aftermarket key replacement online. They are usually available for less than it would cost to get an entirely new key from the manufacturer.
Losing a car key can be a stressful experience, but it's not as terrible as people think. It's not as expensive as many people think. If you know who to contact for help, where to find a replacement key, and how to prevent the possibility of losing your keys again and you'll be back on the road in short time. To avoid losing your keys, a smart plan is to set up an area for them. You should always place them there after you use them. This will become a habit and make it easy to find your keys in case you lose them.
2. Contact Your Insurance Company
No matter how careful you are losing your car keys could be a frightening experience. It's among the top three most lost items people lose and can cause a person to go into an anxiety and a chaotic hunt to find their car keys again. But, this isn't always an unsolved issue, and there are many ways to have your car key replacement covered by insurance or other sources.
You can try to find your key on your own or ask for help from the dealership or your car manufacturer, based on your specific situation. Some car dealers can create new keys for cars on their lot. However, it's generally more expensive than hiring locksmith. Depending on your insurance policy and the type of vehicle you own, you may be eligible to utilize your roadside assistance program to pay for the replacement key.
Be sure to search your home and car thoroughly for keys before you call your insurer. This will help find the right area and provide you with an idea of where to begin. Make sure to look in all pockets along with the seat and under any cushions. It's also a good idea to double-check your purse backpack, or wallet to see if keys are present. If you have a spare key, you can get it copied by a locksmith or car dealer to create an entirely new key without needing to change anything inside the vehicle.
If you're still not able to locate your keys after a thorough search, it could be time to contact the police and report the missing car key. The police can create a lost and discovered report on your behalf and could be able to track down the key or notify you that it was turned in. This is a great way to stop your car from being stolen. Be sure to check your phone for notifications about lost and found using apps like Find My iPhone or iCloud. You can also use GPS tracking apps to find your car if it's turned in.
3. Contact the manufacturer of your car
It's frustrating to lose your car keys, because it is usually impossible to open or drive your vehicle without it. But don't be afraid it is a common occurrence, and there are ways that you can get it fixed quickly and quickly.
If your vehicle was manufactured before 1981, you will usually find a standard replacement at a locksmith shop or in some hardware stores. The keys are mechanical and don't require any additional technology, like transponders or chips. If you have an older key that's high-tech, it may require replacement by a locksmith or a dealer. This process may be longer and you'll have to provide proof of ownership before you can receive the key.
The remote key is an sophisticated version of the traditional metal key and requires a fob reader in order to operate. These kinds of keys are more difficult to replace, and they can cost from $50 to $500 and that's why it is always advisable to have spares!
Calling the dealership or a locksmith is the quickest option to replace your lost car key. They'll be able create a new key for you and are likely to be in a position to program your vehicle to allow it to open and close with the press of one button. This isn't always possible in the event that the original key isn't accessible to program.
If you've lost your car keys, try to trace your steps as best you can. This can help you determine where your keys might be if you didn't find them previously. It also saves you time by not having to search for your house or vehicle in the future. Additionally, you can buy a Bluetooth key tracker to put on your key chain which will let you locate your keys via an app on your smartphone.
4. Contact a locksmith
The loss of car keys can be a traumatic experience. Keys can be lost at any time, no matter how careful you may be. There are a few basic steps you can follow to solve this issue.
First and foremost, try not to panic! Losing your car keys could be a scary and overwhelming experience, but it's important to stay calm and think about what you can do. Retrace your steps. Where did you last have them? This is an important step that can help narrow your search. Examine your pockets and other hidden places. Also, look behind and between the driver's and passenger's seats. Don't forget to also look over your purse or backpack if you suspect you may have left it behind.
Call a locksmith in case you cannot locate your car keys. A professional locksmith will be able to create a new key for you and remove the old chip off your vehicle's system. This is a more cost-effective alternative to returning to the dealer, who will charge an extra fee.
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 buy an aftermarket model for less than it would cost to get an entirely new key from the manufacturer. Be aware that you'll need someone who can cut and program the key prior to it being able to work on your car So, make sure to shop for a suitable alternative.
If you don't already have a spare key for your vehicle It is a good idea to invest in one. Any locksmith can make a replacement car key for you if you are driving a manual vehicle. If you own an electronic key fob or smart key, or any other keys that are technologically advanced, you will have to contact your dealer to get an alternative.