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How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Losing car keys is a nightmare. It wasn't that long ago, it wasn't a big deal but it's getting more complicated as cars get technologically advanced.
You can lose your keys when you accidentally knock them off the table when you reach into your pocket to get something else. You can avoid such situations by keeping a spare key in your home.
1. Contact a locksmith
There's no denying that losing your car keys could be a huge hassle. But, there's no need to be in a panic. If you know what to do and who to contact to get your car keys changed should just take a couple of steps.
Try to go back the steps you made. It might seem simple but it's difficult to accomplish if you are stressed or concerned about losing your car keys. Examine all pockets, bags and the area around your vehicle.
If you haven't been able to find your car keys, it's time to contact an locksmith. Locksmiths are able to create keys for your car quicker than a dealership. In addition, they will usually accomplish this for much less than what a dealership would charge you.
Some dealerships can make replacement car keys as well however they might not be able to complete it immediately or at all. They usually have a large number of customers therefore they might not be able to accommodate your request right away. Additionally, they might not be able to create an exact replica of your current key.
You can also buy a replacement key online. These keys can be found on Amazon and elsewhere for a price that is lower than you would pay the dealer. However, they may not be able to cut and program these keys for your specific car model.
Some insurance policies cover the cost of replacing a stolen or lost vehicle key. So, it's always worthwhile to check if you have coverage that will cover the cost of obtaining the new key for your car. Remember that you'll need to show proof of ownership to the person or business who creates the replacement key. This is legally required. If you're not able to provide proof of ownership, it can be quite costly.
2. Contact the Dealership
In the past, misplacing - or even losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. It wasn't expensive to get an alternative key from the dealer. However, with cars becoming more advanced in technology and keys becoming more expensive to replace it's not as simple as it used to be. It's not unusual to pay several hundred dollars for a new set of keys if you lose them today.
It is important to be calm if you have lost your car keys. This will help you think clearly and make the right choice about how to resolve the issue. Also, make sure that you have a backup set keys in your pocket or the trunk of your car, so that if you do lose the originals they won't cost you any money. You should also check to find out if the replacement key is covered by your warranty or car insurance which could assist you in saving cash in the event of a need.
Then, look in your vehicle, your home and purse, or your wallet for keys missing. You can also go back through the steps you followed, and remember when you last held your keys and where you were at the time you lost them. This could assist you in determining the location they went to, which can be a huge relief.
If you've completed an exhaustive search but are unable to locate your car keys, the next option is to contact your dealership. Dealerships are familiar with the vehicle they are servicing and can provide you with an alternative key. However, they're typically full and cannot accommodate people on short notice, which can make the process difficult.
If you can contact your dealership, they will be able create keys for you using the VIN number that is recorded on their system. They can also reprogram your immobilizer system, which is necessary to start your vehicle. Locksmiths are an excellent choice for those who want a fast and reliable solution that doesn't require you to wait in the dealership.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
In the past the time when you lost your car keys wasn't a big deal. Locksmiths could come to your home and duplicate your keys for an affordable cost. As cars have become more technologically advanced, so have keys, and now they're more expensive to replace than they were before.
Depending on the kind of vehicle and year, the process for replacing a lost car key can take several steps and cost hundreds of dollars. It's always a smart idea to have an extra set of car keys in your possession. This is especially important if you live near an area that is prone to danger or a place with an extremely high rate of theft.
It may seem like a waste of time to call your insurance provider but it can actually save you money over the course of time. Certain policies will cover the cost of a new car key, so be sure to speak with your insurance company before you lose a key and you find yourself in need.
If your insurance policy provides roadside assistance, you should also think about this. If it does, the insurance company might send a person out to assist you with your situation which could be less stressful than dealing with a locksmith or a dealership.
Before calling your insurance company, make sure to search thoroughly for your keys. If you think they're in the car, look in the trunk and underneath the seat. Check lost a car key of your clothing and other places you might have been used to putting them. You should also double-check the areas you may have put them, such as your purse or desk.
After you've tried to locate your car keys it's recommended to contact your dealer to have them replaced. This isn't an issue and is cheaper than calling an locksmith or calling the insurance company.
Ask the dealer to create a spare key for you, particularly in the event that your car doesn't have an remote. The dealership will usually be able to duplicate an additional key for you, without having to change anything else in your vehicle. If you decide to do this, make sure that you keep the key in a location that is safe and secure so you can find it in the event that you lose it.
4. Call the police
Reporting lost car keys can help you find them and keep you safe. If someone takes your vehicle without permission, they could be subject to fines if they drive it on city streets or on private property. You can protect yourself by reporting keys stolen prior to someone stealing your car. This leaves a trace on paper that will show when and who reported the theft.
It's a common problem to lose keys to your car, but it doesn't have to be a catastrophe. You can replace your car key quickly and easily if call the right people. You can even prevent the possibility of losing keys in the future by following the suggestions given in this article.
Follow your steps. This will help you to recall where you may have lost your key. If you were driving to work and then stopped at a restaurant to take a bite and drinks, you might remember that your keys were in your pockets as you left the vehicle. If you are unable to locate your key, you might have left it in the bag that you carried around with things or on the table you dined at.
Posting your key online is a great idea. This will increase the likelihood of finding the culprit by reaching a larger audience. You can also check with local businesses and other community bulletin boards.
It is essential to note down the VIN of your car before you begin searching for your keys. This information is needed to replace your keys, which is why you should keep it secure. The VIN is typically found on your driver's licence, however, it can also be found on your insurance card and in your car's owner's manual.
Contact the police after you've exhausted all other options. They'll be capable of providing you with an interim replacement for your vehicle, and they can also prepare a police report that could come in handy if the keys are ever discovered.
