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How to Replace Lost Car Keys
It's an absolute nightmare to lose car keys. It was not a problem until recently, but as cars become more technologically advanced, it is becoming more difficult.
You could lose your keys when you accidentally knock them off the table while reaching into your pocket to get something else. A spare key at home will help you avoid these situations.
1. Contact an expert locksmith
There's no doubt that losing your car keys could be a huge hassle. But, there's also no need to panic. If you know what to do and who to contact, getting your car keys changed should be a matter of a few steps.
It is recommended to try retracing the steps you took. This may seem like an obvious step but it can be difficult when you're in a rush or are already panicking over the loss of your car keys. Make sure you check all your pockets, bags, and the area around your vehicle.
Call a locksmith if you are unable to locate your car keys. Locksmiths are typically able to create a new key for your vehicle much more quickly than the dealership. They can even do it for less than a dealership will charge.
Some dealerships can create replacement car keys as well however they might not be able do it immediately or even at all. There are many dealerships that have an abundance of customers, so they might not be able accommodate you right away. In addition, they may not be able to create an exact duplicate of your current key.
You can also purchase an online replacement key. Keys can be purchased on Amazon and other websites at a lower cost than what you would pay the dealer. However, they might not have the ability to cut and program these keys for your specific car model.
Some insurance policies cover the cost to replace the vehicle's lost or stolen key. It's a good idea to check your insurance policy to determine whether it covers the cost of a new car key. Remember to show proof of ownership to the person or company who is responsible for creating the replacement key. This is required by the law. It could be expensive if you're not able to prove ownership.
2. Call the Dealership
It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys wasn't an issue. It wasn't too expensive to buy a new key from a dealer. However, as cars become more technologically advanced and keys becoming more expensive to replace - this isn't as easy as it used to be. If you have lost your keys today, it's not uncommon to pay hundreds of dollars to get them replaced.
If you've lost your car keys the first thing you must do is be calm. This will help you think clearly and make the best decision about how to solve the problem. You should also make sure that you have a backup set keys somewhere else, such as in your pocket or in the trunk of your car, so that if you do lose the originals they won't cost you any money at all. Also, see if the key replacement is covered under your warranty or insurance for your car and can help you save some money in a crisis.
Next, search your vehicle, your home, your purse, or your wallet for keys that are missing. You may try to trace your steps, keeping track of where you last saw them and the location you were in when you lost them. This may be able to help you figure out the location they went to and can be an immense relief.
Contact your dealer if haven't been able to find your keys after an exhaustive search. Dealerships are familiar with the vehicle they are servicing and can give you an alternative key. However, they're usually busy and aren't able to accommodate customers with short notice, which can make the process difficult.
If you are able to contact your dealer they'll be able to create an original key for you using the VIN number on file. They can also reprogram the immobilizer device which is needed to start your vehicle. However, if you're looking to find a fast, reliable solution that doesn't involve waiting at the dealership, a locksmith could be the best option.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Not too long ago the time when you lost your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could get a locksmith to travel to your location and duplicate your key for a reasonable fee. As cars have become technologically advanced, the keys have also become more expensive.
Depending on the type of vehicle and the year The process for replacing keys for a car that have been lost can take a few steps and can cost you hundreds of dollars. This is why it's recommended to keep an extra set of keys on the go, especially if reside in a neighborhood that is dangerous or an area where theft is a common occurrence.
While it may feel like it's a waste of time to call your insurance company, it will save you money in the long run. Some policies will cover the cost of a new car key, so make sure to inquire with your insurance provider prior to losing a key and find yourself in need.
If your policy provides roadside assistance, it is advisable to consider this. If it does, the company could send someone out to assist you out of your situation which could be less stressful than dealing with a locksmith or dealership.
Be sure to thoroughly inspect your car prior to you call your insurance provider. If you think they're in your car, look in the trunk and under the seat. If you're at home, check the pockets of the clothes you were wearing as well as in other places where you may be prone to putting them. Make sure you check any places you might have left them. For instance, your purse or in a messy office.
Contact your dealer to replace the keys once you've tried to find them. This isn't a problem, 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. Your dealership can usually clone an additional key for you without having to change anything else in your car. If you do this, make sure that you keep the key in a place that is safe and secure so you can find it again if you lose it.
4. Call the police
Reporting lost car keys can help you locate the keys and keep you safe. If someone steals your vehicle without permission, they may be fined if they drive it on streets in the city or private property. If you report your keys lost before the person gets away with your car, you'll know that there's a legal paper trail of when the car went missing and who reported it.
It's not uncommon to lose your car keys, but it doesn't have to be a catastrophe. You can obtain a replacement car key quickly and easily if call the right people. You can even prevent any future key loss if you follow the tips that are provided in this article.
Then, try retracing your steps. This will help you to recall where you may have lost your keys. If you were driving to work and then stopped at a restaurant in order to take a bite, you may remember that keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you are unable to locate your key, you could have put it in the bag that you used to carry around things or on the table you ate at.
Another option is to publish your most important loss online. This will reach a large audience and increase the chances of finding it. You can also look up local businesses and bulletin boards for community groups.
It's crucial to write down the VIN of your car before you begin searching for your keys. This information is needed to replace your keys, so it's important to keep it secure. It's common to find the VIN on your driver's license, but it's also sometimes printed on your insurance card or in the owner's manual of your vehicle.
Call the police once you've exhausted other options. They'll be in a position to provide you with a temporary replacement for your vehicle and also make a report that could help should the keys ever be discovered.