How to Replace a Lost Car Key
Anyone who has lost their car keys knows how difficult it can be. There are ways to lessen the stress and cost that are associated with this.
First, make sure you've inspected every spot you could have placed them. If not, it's time to contact someone. You have several options to pick from:
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
A car key is a tiny piece of metal that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle. It's common to lose your car keys. The good news is, it's simple to replace. This guide will show you how to quickly and easily replace a standard car key, or smart key.
Smart keys are available for numerous newer models of vehicles. They have an electronic chip that has been programmed to work only with that vehicle. If you have an electronic key, you'll need to go to the dealership where you purchased your car to get a replacement key. The dealer will have to match the new key to the specific car, so you'll likely have to wait for a couple of days before you're able to drive again.
If you're fortunate, your dealer may have the key available and be able pair it with your vehicle immediately. However, the dealer could charge a fee for this service. You can also visit a locksmith to repair your car keys for a lesser cost.
Before you call your dealer or a locksmith, check to see if you have spare keys. If you do, store them in a secure location where they're unlikely to be lost. Also, you might want to look for a used or aftermarket key replacement on the internet. They are typically less expensive than purchasing a brand new key from the manufacturer.
Losing a car key can be extremely stressful but it's not as difficult as many people believe. It's also not as costly as many people believe. As long as you know who to contact and how to locate an alternative key, and how to prevent the possibility of losing your keys again You'll be back on the road in no time. One of the best ways to ensure that you don't lose your keys is to designate an area to store them in, and then always place them there when you're done using them. This will become a routine and will ensure that, should you lose your keys, they'll be a snap to locate.
2. Contact Your Insurance Company
The loss of your car keys can be an extremely frightening moment for anyone, no matter how cautious you are. It's one of the top three most misplaced objects that people lose, and it can send a person into an anxiety and a chaotic search to locate their car keys. This isn't always a lost case and there are several ways to get the replacement of your car keys by insurance.
Depending on your situation, you may try to locate the key yourself, or contact the dealership or your car manufacturer for help. Some car dealers will create new keys for cars on their lot. However, it's generally more expensive than hiring locksmith. You might also be able to use roadside assistance for your car to cover the cost of a replacement key, dependent on the type of car and your insurance policy.
Make sure you search your home and car thoroughly for keys prior to you call your insurer. This will help you limit the search area and give you an idea of where to start. Make sure to check all pockets, underneath the seat and in any other areas. It's recommended to check your purse, backpack, or wallet to make sure keys are in there. If you have a spare key, you can get it copied by a locksmith or dealer to create the new key without having to change anything inside your vehicle.
If you're still not able to locate your keys after an exhaustive search, it may be time to contact the police and report the missing car keys. The police will file a lost-and found report on your behalf. They may be able track down the key, or inform you know that it has been returned. This can be a great way to avoid having your vehicle taken away. Also, don't forget to check your phone for lost and found notifications from apps like Find My iPhone or iCloud. You can also use GPS trackers to find your car if it has been abandoned.
3. Contact the manufacturer of your car
It's extremely frustrating to lose your car keys as it's almost impossible to drive or open your vehicle without it. However, don't worry it happens to everyone, but there are ways that you can resolve the situation quickly and easily.
If your car was manufactured before 1981, a standard replacement key can be purchased from a local locksmith or in some hardware stores. They are purely mechanical and don't require any additional technology, such as chips or transponders. If you have an older key that is high-tech, it may require replacement by a locksmith or a dealer. The process could take longer and you will have to provide proof of ownership in order to get the key.
lost my car key of the latest vehicles available today come with remote keys, also known as a "fob." These keys are more sophisticated than traditional keys made of metal and require an appropriate fob reader in order to operate the vehicle. These kinds of keys are more difficult to replace and range in price between $50-$500 which is why it's always best to have spare keys!
Contacting the dealership or a locksmith is the quickest option to replace your lost car key. They can design a key for you and program it to start and unlock your car with just one button. This isn't always possible in the event that the original key isn't available to program with.
If you've lost your car keys try to retrace the steps as you can. You can use this method to determine where your keys may be if you don't have them already. It will also save you time by not having to search for your house or vehicle in the future. You can also purchase an Bluetooth tracker to keep on your keychain. This will let you locate your keys with an app on your smartphone.
4. Contact a locksmith
Car keys can be one of the most frustrating things to lose. You could lose your keys at any moment regardless of how diligent you are. There are a few simple steps you can follow to fix this problem.
First first, don't get stressed! It can be scary and stressful to lose your car keys, but you should stay at peace and think about what you can do. Begin by retracing your steps. What were they when they last left? This is a crucial step that can help narrow your search. Then, look in your pockets and any other hiding places you may have used. Additionally, it's important to check behind the driver and passenger seats as well as in between them. Also, don't forget to examine your purse or backpack in case you suspect you might have left it behind.
If you're unable to find your car keys, it's time to call an expert locksmith. 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 solution than returning to the dealer who will charge an extra fee.
You can also look online for replacement keys and key fobs for sale at a discount. Depending on the kind of key you have you may be able to purchase an aftermarket version for less than it would cost to get an entirely new key from the manufacturer. Look around for a person who can cut and program the key so that it works on your vehicle.
If you don't already have a spare key for your vehicle it's worth investing in one. If you have a manual car, this can be easily done by any locksmith who will make you a replacement key right on the spot. However, if you own an electronic key, key fob or other key that is more advanced in technology, you will need to contact the dealer to have a new one created for you.