How to Replace a Lost Car Key
Car keys that are lost can be a nightmare to deal with. There are a few things you can do to minimize the stress and expense associated with it.
Examine all possible places where you could have put them. If not, it's time to call someone. There are many options to think about:
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
A car key is a small piece of metal that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle. It's not uncommon to lose your car keys. The good thing is that it's easy to replace. No matter if you're dealing traditional key, or a high-tech smart one this guide will show you how to get back on the road swiftly and easily.
Many newer cars come with keys that are designed to be "smart." This means they're equipped with an electronic chip that is programmed to work with a specific vehicle. You'll have to visit the dealership where you purchased your car to get an additional key if you own an "smart" key. The dealer must match the key to your car and, therefore, it's likely that you'll have to wait a few days before you're permitted to drive again.
If you're lucky, your car dealer will have the key in stock and be in a position to pair it to your car right away. The dealer might charge a fee for this service. You can also go to an locksmith to repair your car keys at a cheaper price.
Before you contact your locksmith or dealer make sure you have spare keys. Keep them in a safe place that you aren't likely to lose keys. Consider looking on the internet for keys that are used, or a replacement from the aftermarket. These keys are usually cheaper than buying a new key from the manufacturer.
It's not as difficult an issue as some people believe. It's not even as expensive as people think. If you know who to call, how to find the replacement key and how to avoid the possibility of losing your keys again You'll be back on the road in no time. To avoid losing your keys, a good method is to create a specific spot for them and always put them there after using them. This will become a habit and make sure that if you misplace your keys, they'll be easily found.
2. Contact Your Insurance Company
No matter how careful you may be losing your car keys can be a frightening experience. It's among the three most commonly misplaced objects, and it can trigger panic and a frantic search to locate your car keys. It's not always a lost case and there are a variety of ways to have the replacement of your car keys by insurance.
You can attempt to locate your key by yourself or ask for help from the dealership or your vehicle manufacturer, depending on your specific situation. Some car dealers can create a new key to vehicles on their lot, but it's typically more expensive than working with an expert locksmith. You might also be able to use roadside assistance coverage for your car to cover the cost of a new key, dependent on the type of car and your insurance policy.
Make sure you check your car and home thoroughly for keys before you call your insurer. This will help find the right place and help you decide where to start looking. Make sure to check all pockets, underneath the seat and in any other areas. It's also a good idea to check your purse, wallet, or backpack to ensure that the keys are there. If you have a spare, you can have it cloned by a locksmith or dealer to make a new key without having 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 police and report the missing car key. The police will file a lost-and found report on your behalf and could be able to locate the key, or let you know that it has been returned. This could be an excellent way to prevent having your car stolen. Don't forget to check your phone for notifications about lost and found from apps like Find My iPhone or iCloud. You can also make use of GPS trackers to find your vehicle, in the event that it has been abandoned.
3. Contact the manufacturer of your car
A lost car key is likely to be one of the most annoying and frustrating things you could lose because it's nearly impossible to open your car or drive without it. Don't worry it happens to everyone. There are a number of simple ways to solve the issue.
If replace lost key for car was manufactured prior to 1981, you can usually find a standard replacement at a locksmith or even in some hardware stores. These keys are purely mechanical and don't require any additional technology such as transponders or chips. If you have an older key that is not high-tech, it may need to be replaced by a locksmith dealer. It could take longer, and you will require proof of ownership to obtain the key.
The remote key is an sophisticated version of the standard metal key and requires a fob reader to operate. They are difficult to replace and cost anywhere from $50 to $500. It is recommended to always have an extra.
The easiest way to replace your car keys that have been lost is to contact the dealer or an auto locksmith. They will be able to create an entirely new key for you, and will most likely be in a position to program your vehicle, allowing it to start and unlock by pressing one button. However it's not always possible if you don't have the original key to program it with.
If you've lost your car keys, try to retrace the steps as you can. This will allow you to determine the location they went to if they're not already located and could save you from needing to search your entire home or vehicle to find them again in the future. You can also get a Bluetooth tracker to keep on your keychain. This will allow you to find your keys with an app on your phone.
4. Contact a locksmith
Car keys are one of the most annoying things to lose. You could lose your keys at any time regardless of how diligent you are. Thankfully, there are some simple steps you can take to address this issue.
First first, don't get stressed! It can be frightening and overwhelming to lose your car keys, however you should stay calm and consider what you can do. Start by retracing your steps. What was the last place you've had them? This is a crucial step to help narrow your search. Look in your pockets and other hiding places. Also, you should check behind the passenger and driver seats as well as in between them. Don't forget to also examine your purse or backpack in the event that you suspect you have left it behind.
If you're still unable to find your car keys, it's time to contact an expert locksmith. A professional locksmith will be able to create a new key for you and remove the old chip out of your vehicle's system. This is a less expensive alternative to returning to the dealer who will charge an extra fee.
Another option is to look for discount replacement keys or key fobs on the internet. Based on the type of key you have you may be able to purchase an aftermarket model at a lower cost than what it would cost to get an entirely new key from the manufacturer. Find a locksmith who can cut and program the key so that it is compatible with your vehicle.
If you don't have a spare key for your vehicle, it is worth investing in one. If you own an auto that is manual it can be done by any locksmith who can make you a replacement key right on the spot. However, if you own a smart key, key fob, or other more technologically advanced key you'll need to contact the dealership to have a new one created for you.