How to Replace a Lost Car Key
Anyone who has lost their car keys know how frustrating it can be. There are ways to lessen the stress and expenses that are associated with this.
First, ensure that you've inspected every spot you could have placed them. If not, you'll have to call someone. You have several options to choose from:
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
A car key is a small piece of metal that allows you to unlock and start your car. It's not uncommon to lose a car key but the good news is that it's generally easy to replace. Whether you're dealing with a regular key or a high-tech, smart key, this guide will teach you how to get back on the road in a matter of minutes.
Smart keys are compatible with numerous newer models of vehicles. They contain an electronic chip programmed to function only with the vehicle. You will need to visit the dealership where you bought your car to obtain the new key if you own a "smart" key. The dealer will have to match the key to your vehicle which means that you'll need to wait a few days before you are permitted to drive again.
If you're lucky that your dealer has the key available and be able to pair it with your car immediately. The dealer might charge a premium to perform this service. You can also go to a locksmith to replace your car keys at a lower cost.
Before you contact your dealer or a locksmith make sure you have spare keys. Keep them in a safe place in which you're not likely to lose keys. Also, you might want to look for an used or second-hand key replacement online. These keys are usually cheaper than buying a new key from the manufacturer.
It's not as bad a situation as people think. It's not as costly as some people believe. You'll be back in your car in no time if you know what to do, who to call, where to find a replacement and how to avoid further loss. One of the best ways to avoid losing your keys is to designate an area to store them in, and then put them there after you've finished using them. This will become a routine and make it easy to locate your keys if you lose them.
2. Contact Your Insurance Company
The loss of your car keys can be a terrifying moment for anyone, regardless of how vigilant you are. It's among the top three most lost objects that people lose, and it can send a person into a panic and a whirlwind search to locate their car keys. But, this isn't always a lost cause and there are a variety of ways to get your car key replacement provided by insurance companies or other sources.
You can either try to find your key by yourself or seek assistance from the dealership or your car manufacturer, based on the situation. Some car dealers can create new keys for cars that are on their lot. However, lost keys for car 's usually more expensive than using a locksmith. You may also be eligible to purchase roadside assistance coverage for your car to cover the cost of a new key, depending on the type of vehicle and the insurance policy you have.
Before you call your insurance company, make sure you have done an extensive search of your home and car for the keys. This will help narrow the area to search and provide you with an idea of where to begin. Make sure to check all pockets, underneath the seat, and in other areas. It's recommended 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 your car dealer to create a new key without having to alter anything inside the vehicle.
If you're still not able to locate your keys after a thorough search, it could 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 might be able to locate the key, or inform you know that it has been returned. This could be an excellent way to prevent getting your car stolen. Be sure to look up your phone for notifications about lost and found from apps such as Find My iPhone or iCloud. You can also use GPS tracking apps to locate your car if it's turned in.
3. Contact the manufacturer of Your Vehicle
It's extremely frustrating to lose your car keys as it's almost impossible to open or drive your vehicle without it. However, don't panic - it is a common occurrence, and there are ways that you can resolve the situation quickly and quickly.
If your car was manufactured prior to 1981, a standard replacement key can be purchased from an area locksmith or some hardware stores. The keys are mechanical and don't require any additional technology, like transponders or chips. If you own a more modern or high-tech key, it will likely need to be replaced at the dealership or by an expert locksmith. This could take longer, and you will require proof of ownership to get the key.
The remote key is a more advanced version of the traditional metal key that requires a fob reader in order to operate. These kinds of keys are more difficult to replace and they can cost between $50-$500 and that's why it is always advisable to have spare keys!
Calling the dealership or a locksmith is the most efficient option to replace your lost car key. They'll be able create the new key for you and most likely, they'll be able to program it to your vehicle so that it is able to open and close by pressing one button. This isn't always possible if the original key isn't available to program with.
If you've lost your car keys try to retrace your steps as much as you can. This will help you figure out where they might have gone in the event that they haven't been found, and can save you the time of needing to search your entire house or vehicle in the future. Additionally, you can purchase a Bluetooth key tracker to keep on your key chain, which will let you track your keys using an app on your phone.
4. Contact a locksmith
Car keys can be one of the most frustrating things to lose. Whatever you do, no matter how diligent you are, it only takes just a few seconds to lose your keys and you're without the ability to get anywhere! There are a few easy steps you can follow to get rid of this issue.
First first, don't get stressed! It can be scary and difficult to lose your car keys, however you must remain calm and consider what you can do. Start by retracing the steps. What were they when they last left? This is a crucial aspect, as it can help narrow your search. Check your pockets and other hidden places. It is also important to check behind the driver and passenger seats, as well as between them. Be sure to examine your purse or backpack in the event that you suspect you have left it in the car.
If you're unable to locate your car keys, you need to call a locksmith. A professional locksmith can create an entirely new key for you and remove the old chip out of your vehicle's system. This is a more cost-effective solution than going back to the dealer who will charge a premium.
You can also search online for replacement keys or key fobs for sale at a discount. You might be able to purchase an aftermarket key for less than you would spend to purchase an original key. But, remember that you'll need to have someone who can cut and program the key before it can work on your vehicle and so make sure you look for a suitable alternative.
If you don't have an extra car key, it's worth investing in one. Any locksmith can easily create an alternative car key for you if are driving a manual vehicle. However, if you own an electronic key, key fob or another key that is more technologically advanced you'll need to contact the dealership to have a new key created for you.