Lost Car Keys Tips From The Most Successful In The Business
How to Replace Lost Car Keys
It's an absolute nightmare to lose car keys. It wasn't that long ago, this wasn't a huge issue, but it's becoming more complicated as cars get technologically advanced.
Sometimes, keys are lost because you've reached into your pocket to find something else and accidentally thrown them away somewhere. You can avoid such situations by keeping a spare key at home.
1. Call a Locksmith
It's a fact that losing your car keys could be a huge hassle. It's not a reason to panic. If you know what to do and who to call to get your car keys replaced should just take a couple of steps.
Try to go back the steps you took. This may seem like a simple task however it can be difficult to do when you're in a rush or are already worried about the loss of keys to your car. Check all your pockets, bags, and the space around your vehicle.
Contact a locksmith in case you can't find your car keys. Locksmiths can usually create keys for your vehicle quicker than a dealership. They can even do it for cheaper than a dealership will charge.
Some dealerships can create keys for replacement to cars, but they may not be able to do it for you immediately or at all. There are many dealerships that receive an abundance of customers which means they may not be able accommodate you immediately. They might not be able create an exact copy of your current key.
Another option is to buy an online replacement for your car key. These keys can be found on Amazon and other websites for a price that is lower than you'd purchase from a dealer. However, they may not be able to cut and program these keys for your specific car model.
Some insurance policies also provide coverage for the cost of replacing a lost or stolen car key. It's worth checking if you have coverage that will cover the cost of purchasing a new key for your vehicle. Remember that you'll need to show proof of ownership to the person or company who is responsible for creating your replacement key. This is required by law. It can be very expensive if you are not able to prove ownership.
2. Contact the Dealership
Not too long ago losing - or losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. It was easy to get an alternative key from a dealership, and it didn't cost much to do it. This is no longer the case, since cars are more sophisticated and keys are more expensive. If you have lost your keys today, it's not uncommon to pay hundreds of dollars to have them replaced.
If you've lost your car keys the first thing you need to do is be calm. This will allow you to think clearly and make the right decision. If you lose your original keys, you should have an extra set of keys in your pocket or car trunk. This will ensure that you're not in financial trouble. You should also check to determine if the replacement is covered under your warranty or car insurance which could assist you in saving cash in the event of a need.
The next step is to do an exhaustive search of your home, vehicle, and your purse or wallet to find keys that are missing. You can also retrace the steps you followed, and remember when you last had your keys and where you were at the time you lost them. This will help you figure the location of your lost items, which is a great relief.
Contact your dealer if aren't able to locate your keys after a thorough search. Dealerships are knowledgeable about your particular vehicle, which is why they're the best option for a new key. However, they're typically busy and aren't able to accommodate customers with short notice, which could make the process difficult.
If you can contact your dealership, they will be able to create a key for you using the VIN number that is saved on their system. They can also reprogram the immobilizer system that is required to start your car. However, if you're looking to find an efficient, quick solution that doesn't involve waiting at the dealership, a locksmith may be the best option.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Not too long ago the time when you lost your car keys wasn't an issue. You could contact a locksmith to drive to your location and duplicate your key for a reasonable fee. However, as cars have become more technologically advanced, so have the keys, and they're more expensive to replace than ever.
Depending on the type of vehicle and year The process for replacing keys for a car that have been lost can take several steps and cost you hundreds of dollars. It's recommended to keep an additional set of keys on hand, especially if you reside in a dangerous area or an area where theft is a common occurrence.
While it might seem like a waste of time to call your insurance company, calling them could save you money in the long run. Some policies will cover the cost of replacing a car key, so make sure to inquire with your insurance company before you lose a key and find yourself in need.
Another thing to consider is whether your insurance policy offers roadside assistance. If you have roadside assistance, a person might be able to help you. This is a much less stressful option than dealing with a dealership or locksmith.
Be sure to thoroughly search your car before you call your insurance provider. If you think they're in the car, search under the trunk and under the seat. Examine the pockets of your clothes and other places where you may have been accustomed to putting them. Double-check any places you may have left them. For instance, in your purse or a cluttered office.
Contact your dealer to replace the keys after you've tried to find them. This is usually not an issue, and it's cheaper than calling a locksmith or going to the insurance company.
Ask the dealer to make an extra key for you, especially when your car doesn't come with a remote. The dealership will usually be able to duplicate an extra key lost for you, without having to change anything else in your car. If you do this, make sure to keep the key in a place that is secure and safe to ensure you can locate it if you lose it.
4. Call the police
Reporting your lost car keys will help you locate the keys and keep you safe. If someone drives your car on public roads or on private property without permission, the driver could be charged with a fine. If you report the keys missing before the person makes off with your car, you'll know that you have an official paper trail of when it was missing and who reported it.
Car keys are lost is a common occurrence but it doesn't need to be a disaster. You can obtain a replacement car key quickly and easily if call the right people. If you follow the guidelines in this article, you'll even be able to avoid any future key loss!
Retrace your steps. This will give you an idea of where the key might have gone missing and can aid in remembering what you were doing at the time. For example, if you were driving home from work and then went to eat at a restaurant, you might be able to recall that the keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you can't find the key, it may be in the bag you used to carry things around or on the table at which you sat down to eat.
Posting your lost key online is a good idea. This will reach a large audience and increase the chances of finding it. You can also contact local businesses and other community bulletin boards.
It is essential to note down the VIN of your vehicle before you begin looking for your keys. You'll require this information to replace your key therefore it's essential to keep it somewhere safe. The VIN is usually found on your driver's license however, it can also be found on your insurance card as well as in your car's owner's manual.
Contact the police after you've exhausted other options. You can get an emergency replacement car from the police department, and they'll also submit a report which is useful in the event that your keys are recovered.