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How to Avoid Overpaying For Lost Car Key Replacement
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing or losing your car keys was not an problem. Today's automobiles are more advanced and replacing keys that have been lost is a nightmare.
The first step is to retrace your steps and thoroughly search pockets bags, bags and any other places where you may have put them down. You can then call locksmith.
Retract your Steps
If your RV steps don't retract/extend, first check to make sure the engine is switched off. It's possible that the electronics in your RV steps have failed and are ignoring commands to retract from the RV's key. If this is the situation, simply flipping the switch to "auto" or "on", should solve the problem.
Examine the steps for any items that might be stuck. Then, thoroughly clean and grease the steps. After that you can listen to determine whether the sound is coming from the motor or gear.
Certain steps can be programmed to your car without the assistance of a technician, so be sure you read the instructions included with your keys or your owner's manual for more details on how to do this. Sometimes, the procedure involves opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronics on and off, and then pressing a series of buttons.
Call Your Insurance
It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys was not a big deal. It was a little irritating but as long as you had a spare key you were good to go. However, with modern vehicles losing keys is a bit more difficult. It's important to be prepared for this situation.
If you have roadside assistance coverage, you can contact your insurance company and they will send a locksmith to get you back inside your vehicle. The cost to do this will differ based on the kind of key your vehicle utilizes. You should also consult the owner's manual for the procedure for reprogramming new keys to work with your car. The key must be programmed to the vehicle's system and can usually be done by simply opening and closing doors, turning on lights and other electronic devices on or off, and pressing several buttons similar to a code.
Double-checking the obvious places to locate your keys is also a good idea. You may have placed them in your purse, pocket or even in your trunk. If you're still unable locate them, it's probably recommended to contact your dealer. The dealer will create keys for you and then program it into your vehicle. To do this, they will require the original key as well as proof of ownership. The cost of a replacement key may differ from dealership to dealership.
The more high-tech and advanced your car's entry system the more expensive the replacement key will cost. Mechanical keys that are older tend to be the easiest to replace, as they are not as complex. If you own a car that comes with an electronic key or fob and remote locks and unlocks, it's likely that you will need to submit a claim to your insurance company for the cost of replacement.
If you're not able to claim compensation for car key replacement because of the policy or coverage and other warranties or policies might provide the funds. Make a note of your vehicle's identification number (VIN) to help locate someone who can assist. You can usually find it on the driver's dashboard or in the windshield, and you may also be able to look for it in your owner's manual or the section on information about your vehicle in your insurance policy.
Visit the Dealership
Car keys aren't only expensive however, they're one of the most frustrating things to lose. You might have to go back and wonder if you missed them. In these instances it is recommended to contact your car's dealer or manufacturer. They'll be able provide you with a new key much faster than any other service provider.
Based on the model you have and the kind of key you have and the roadside assistance coverage, dealerships may differ in the speed at which they can create a new key for you. They will have the best information about your car and can make a key using genuine parts for your vehicle.
If you own an older model of car that has the traditional double-edged key you can still get an alternative made at any hardware store, provided you have the key code or VIN number for refer to. If you have an older model that has an electronic key fob that can lock and start your car, however, only the dealer can make a replacement.
You'll have to visit in person and provide proof of ownership, as well as a valid photo ID and the 17-digit number of your vehicle identification (VIN), to have an additional key created for your vehicle. If you're unable to visit the dealer for whatever reason your roadside assistance policy will allow someone to come to you and make a duplicate key for you. However, that can take some time, and you'll need to pay the replacement cost in the meantime. It is essential to have a spare key on hand in these instances.
Call a Locksmith
It's more expensive to lose your car keys than it used to be. A replacement key for your car can cost as much as $500 based on the make and model. There are several ways to reduce the cost of replacing your car key. Making contact with a Brooklyn locksmith is the first step. Then, you can rest at ease knowing that the job will be done correctly.
A locksmith will be able to find a replacement key faster than a dealership and probably at a lower cost. They'll also be able cut and program your new key right on the spot, unlike a dealership which may require you to purchase the key from the manufacturer.
Before you call, ensure you know the year, model and year of your vehicle. You'll also have to provide proof ownership like your registration or title. Having this information ready prior to losing your keys will save you time and money.
There are various kinds of car keys, but the most common is the traditional metal key. The key fits inside the ignition cylinder, and it starts the engine. This kind of key can be changed by most car locksmiths but they'll need to obtain the key code for your car from the manufacturer. Most modern vehicles come with this code, but older keys might not.
The remote-controlled car key can be used to open your doors and start the engine. They emit an electrical signal that is recognized by the vehicle. However replacement car fob key function when they are within range of the vehicle. This type of key is able to be replaced by an expert locksmith or a car dealer, however, it's better to have a backup and keep it in a safe location.
If you don't have a spare, the last option is to use a Bluetooth tracker to locate the key you lost. These small devices are usually only a few dollars and can be attached to your key ring. The device will send a notification to your phone when the key is in the range, so you can locate it.