Why Lost Car Keys Is Still Relevant In 2023
How to Replace Lost Car Keys
The loss of car keys is a major headache. It wasn't that long ago, this was not a big issue, but it's becoming more complicated as cars get technologically advanced.
Most of the time, you lose your keys due to the fact that you've reached into your pockets for something else, and then accidentally knocked them off somewhere. You can avoid such situations by keeping an extra key at home.
1. Call an expert locksmith
There's no doubt that losing your car keys could be a huge hassle. There's no reason to panic. If you know who to contact and how to act, it should only take a few steps to get your keys replaced in your car.
One of the first things you have to do is try and retrace your steps. This may appear obvious but it's difficult to accomplish if you are in a hurry or already concerned about losing your car keys. Check all your pockets, bags, and the space around your vehicle.
Contact a locksmith if cannot locate your car keys. Locksmiths can usually make keys for your vehicle faster than an auto dealer. In addition, they will usually do it for a lot less than what a dealership would charge you.
Some dealers are able to create replacement keys, but may not be able do this immediately or at any time. There are many dealerships that have many customers which means they may not be able to help you immediately. They might not be able create an exact copy of your existing key.
You can also buy an online replacement key. These keys can be found on Amazon and other websites for a price that is lower than you would buy from a dealer. However, they might not be able to cut and program these keys for your specific car model.
Some insurance policies will cover the cost to replace the vehicle's lost or stolen key. Therefore, it's worth checking whether you have insurance that will cover the cost of getting a new key for your vehicle. Remember to provide proof of ownership to the person or company who makes your replacement key. This is legally required. If you're not able to provide proof of ownership, it could be a very expensive experience.
2. Contact the Dealership
It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys was not a big deal. You could easily find keys replacements at the dealership and it didn't cost too much to get it done. This is no longer the case as cars are more advanced and keys are more expensive. It's not uncommon to pay hundreds of dollars for a brand new set of keys if you lose them today.
You need to act calmly if you have lost your car keys. This will allow you to think clearly and make the best decision on How to Replace Lost car key to fix the problem. If you have lost your original keys you should keep a spare set of keys in your pocket or car trunk. This will ensure that you are not in financial trouble. Check to see whether your warranty or insurance covers the cost of a replacement key. This could help you save money in the event of an emergency.
The next step is to conduct a thorough search of your home, car and your purse or wallet for keys that are missing. You can try to trace your steps, keeping track of where you last had keys and where you were when you lost them. This will help you figure the location of your lost items, which is a huge relief.
Once you've done an exhaustive search but can't find your car keys, the next option is to contact your dealer. Dealerships are aware of the vehicle they are servicing and can provide you with a replacement key. They're often busy and are not able to accommodate customers who require a quick response. This can cause the process to be difficult.
If you can get a hold of the dealership you're dealing with, they'll be able to create an original key for you using the VIN number on the file. They can also modify your immobilizer system that is needed to start your vehicle. Locksmiths are a great option when you need a quick, reliable solution without having to wait at the dealership.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Not so long ago losing your car keys was not an issue. A locksmith could visit your home and duplicate your keys at an affordable price. As cars have become more technologically advanced, so have the keys, and they're now more expensive to replace than ever before.
Depending on the kind of vehicle and year, the process for replacing keys for a car that have been lost can take several steps and cost hundreds of dollars. This is why it's an excellent idea to keep an additional set of keys on hand, especially if you reside in a dangerous area or a place where theft is common.
It may seem like a waste of time to contact your insurance company however it could save you money over the course of time. Talk to your agent to determine whether you can obtain a replacement car key that is covered by your policy.
If your policy covers roadside assistance, it is advisable to take into consideration this. If it does, the service could send a person out to assist you with your situation which could be less stressful than dealing with a locksmith or dealership.
Make sure you thoroughly search your car before you call your insurance provider. If you think they're in the car, look in the trunk and under the seat. Check the pockets of your clothes and other places where you have been used to putting them. Make sure you check any places you might have left them. For instance, your purse or a cluttered office.
After you've tried to locate the car keys, it's an excellent idea to call your dealer to have them replaced. Usually this shouldn't be a problem and will cost less than hiring a locksmith or working through the insurance company.
While you're at the dealer you may want to inquire whether you can have a spare key made, especially in the event that you don't have an actual key fob. In most cases you can have your dealership make an extra key for you, without changing anything else inside your car. If you choose to do this, be sure you keep the spare key in a safe and secure place to find it next time you lose it.
4. Contact the police
Not only does the act of reporting lost keys for car car keys to police help you locate the keys It also helps keep you safe from thieves. If someone drives your vehicle on public roads or private property without permission, the individual could be charged with a fine. You can help protect yourself by reporting your keys stolen before someone else steals your car. This will leave a paper trail that will show the time and date of the theft.
The loss of car keys is a common occurrence but it doesn't need to be a catastrophe. You can replace your car key quickly and easily if call the right people. If you follow the guidelines in this article, you'll even be able to prevent future key misplacements!
First, try to retrace your steps. This will allow you to recall where you might have lost your key. For instance, if you were returning home from work and then went to get food at the restaurant, you may be able to recall keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you are unable to locate the key, it may be in the bag you carried things around or on the table where you sat down to eat.
Posting your key online is a great idea. This will be seen by a large audience and increase the chances of finding it. You can also check with local businesses and other bulletin boards.
It's important that you write down the VIN of your car before you begin looking for your keys. This information is required to replace your keys, so you should keep it in a safe place. The VIN is typically located on your driver's license, however, it can also be found on your insurance card or in your car's owner's guide.
Contact the police after you've exhausted all other options. You can get a temporary replacement car from the police, and they'll also submit an investigation report that can be helpful should your keys ever be recovered.