How to Replace a Lost Car Key
Anyone who has lost their car keys know how frustrating it can be. There are a few things you can do to reduce the stress and costs that comes with it.
First, ensure that you've inspected every spot you could have placed them. If not, you'll have to contact someone. There are several different options to think about:
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
A car key is a small piece of metal that enables you to unlock and start your vehicle. It's not uncommon to lose your car key. The good news is, it's simple to replace. If you're dealing with a traditional key, or a high-tech, smart key, this guide will teach you how to return to the road quickly and easily.
Many modern cars have keys that are designed to be "smart." This means they contain an electronic chip that has been programmed to work with a particular vehicle. If you've got an electronic key, you'll need to go to the dealer where you bought your vehicle to get a replacement key. The dealer will have to match the key to your car which means that you'll need to wait for a few days before you're able to drive again.
If you're fortunate that your dealer has the key on hand and be able pair it with your car immediately. However, the dealer may charge you a fee for this service. You can also visit an locksmith who will replace your car keys for a much cheaper price.
Examine whether there are spare keys before you contact an expert locksmith or dealer. Keep them in a safe place where you're unlikely to lose them. Also, you might want to look for an used or second-hand key replacement on the internet. These keys are usually cheaper than buying a new one from the manufacturer.
It's not as bad an issue as some people believe. It's also not as expensive as many think. As long as you know who to call for help, where to find the replacement key and how to avoid future losses and you'll be back on the road in short time. To avoid losing your keys, a great plan is to set up the location for them, and make sure you put them there after you've used them. This will become a habit and make it easier to find your keys in case you lose them.
2. Contact Your Insurance Company
Losing your car keys is an extremely frightening moment for anyone, no matter how careful you are. It's one of the top three most misplaced items people lose, and it can put people in an anxiety and a chaotic search to locate their car keys. It's not always a lost case, and there are many ways to get the replacement of your car keys covered by insurance.
Based on your specific situation, you can try to find the key yourself, or contact the dealership or your car manufacturer for help. Some dealers are able to make a new key for cars that are on their lot but it's typically more expensive than working with a locksmith. Based on your insurance policy and the type of vehicle you own, you may be eligible to use your roadside assistance to pay for the replacement key.
Make sure you check your car and home thoroughly for keys before you call your insurer. This will help you limit the search area and provide you with an idea of where to start. Check all pockets, under the seat, and in other places. You should also examine your wallet, purse or backpack to make sure keys are still in there. If you have a spare, you can have it cloned by a locksmith or dealer to make the new key without having to change anything inside the vehicle.
If you still can't find your keys, it could be time to contact the police. The police can file a lost and found report on your behalf and could be able to track down the key or notify you that it was returned. This is a great method to prevent your car from being stolen. 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 tracking apps to locate your car if it's surrendered.
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. Don't panic It happens to every person. There are simple ways to solve the issue.
If your car was constructed 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 transponders or chips. If you have an older key that's high-tech and requires a replacement, it will need to be replaced by a locksmith dealer. It could take longer, and you will need to provide proof of ownership in order to receive the key.
The remote key is a more advanced version of the traditional metal key, and requires a fob reader in order to operate. These types of keys are more difficult to replace and range in price from $50 to $500 and that's why it is always advisable to have a spare!
The easiest method to replace your car keys that have been lost is to contact the dealership or an auto locksmith. They can create keys for you and program it to start and unlock your vehicle with a single button press. This isn't always possible in the event that the original key is not programmed.
If lost vehicle keys 've lost your car keys attempt to trace your steps as much as you can. This will help you figure out where they might have gone if they aren't already found, and can save you from having to search through your entire home or vehicle to find them again in the future. In addition, you can invest in an Bluetooth key tracker to keep on your key chain that will allow you to locate your keys via an app on your phone.
4. Contact a locksmith
Car keys can be one of the most frustrating things to lose. No matter how careful you are, it just takes just a few seconds to lose them, and then you're stuck without the ability to travel! Thankfully, there are some easy steps you can take to address this issue.
First of all, don't panic! It can be terrifying and stressful to lose your car keys, however you should stay at peace and think about what you can do. Retrace your steps. What was the last place you've had them? This is a crucial step because it will help you narrow your search. After that, go through your pockets as well as any other places of hiding you might have used. Also, look behind and between the passenger and driver's seats. Also, don't forget to examine your purse or backpack if you suspect you may have left it behind.
If you're unable to find your car keys, it's time to call an expert locksmith. A professional locksmith can create a new key for your and remove the old chip from your vehicle's system. This is a more cost-effective solution than returning to the dealer for an extra fee.
Another option is to look for discount replacement keys or key fobs on the internet. Depending on the type of key you have you may be able to get an aftermarket version for less than it would cost to get a new key from the manufacturer. But, remember that you'll need someone who can cut and program the key before it will work on your vehicle So, make sure to look for a suitable alternative.
If you don't already have an extra key for your car It is a good idea to invest in one. If you have a manual vehicle it can be accomplished by any locksmith who will make a replacement key on the moment. If you own an electronic key, key fob or other key that is more advanced in technology you'll need to contact the dealership to have a new one made for you.