Lost Car Keys Tips That Will Transform Your Life
How to Replace Lost Car Keys
The loss of car keys is a nightmare. In the past, it wasn't a big deal but it's getting more complicated as cars become technologically advanced.
You could lose your keys when you accidentally knock them off the table while reaching into your pocket to find something else. You can avoid such situations by keeping a spare key in your home.
1. Call a Locksmith
It's a fact that losing your car keys could be a major hassle. It's not a reason to be in a panic. If you know who to call and what you should do it will only take a few steps to get your keys to your car replaced.
It is recommended to try retracing the steps you made. This might sound like a simple task, but sometimes it isn't easy to do when you're in a rush or are already panicking over the loss of your car keys. Make sure to check all of your bags and pockets to see in which you've put them down, and also the space around your car.
Call a locksmith if you can't find your car keys. Locksmiths are usually capable of creating an entirely new key for your vehicle much faster than a dealership. In addition, they will usually complete the task for much cheaper than the dealership will charge you.
Some dealerships are able to create keys for replacement to cars but they might not be able do it for you immediately or at all. They usually have a large number of customers therefore they might not be able to accommodate you right away. They may not also be able to make an exact copy of your existing key.
You can also purchase a replacement key online. The keys are available on Amazon and other sites for a much lower price than what you would pay an auto dealer. However, they might not be able to cut and program keys that are specific to your car model.
Some insurance policies cover the cost to replace a stolen or lost vehicle key. It's worth checking your insurance policy to determine if it will cover the cost of a new car key. Be aware that you'll need to provide proof of ownership and identification to the person or company who is responsible for the creation of the replacement key. This is required by law. It can be very expensive if you're not able to provide proof of ownership.
2. Call the Dealership
A few years ago, misplacing - or even losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could easily find keys replacements from a dealership and it wasn't too much to do it. However, with cars becoming more technologically advanced and keys becoming more expensive to replace it's not as simple as it was in the past. If you lose your keys today it's not uncommon to pay hundreds of dollars to have them replaced.
You must be calm in the event that you've lost your car keys. This will help you think clearly and make the right choice about how to resolve the problem. If you have lost your original keys you should have an extra set of keys in your wallet or in your car trunk. This will ensure you're not out of money. Check to see if your warranty or insurance covers the cost of a key replacement. This could save you money in an emergency.
The next step is to do thorough searches of your car, home, and your purse or wallet to find keys that have gone missing. You could also retrace the steps you took, remembering when you last had your keys and where you were at the time you lost them. This can help you find out where they are which is a huge relief.
If you've completed a thorough search and can't locate your car keys, the next option is to contact your dealer. Dealerships are familiar with your vehicle and can supply you with a replacement key. However, they're usually full and cannot accommodate people at short notice, which could make the process frustrating.
If you are able to contact the dealership, they'll be able to make a key for you using the VIN number that is stored on their system. They can also reprogram your immobilizer system which is required to start your vehicle. However, if you're looking to find an immediate, reliable solution that doesn't involve waiting in the dealership, a locksmith might be the best option.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
In the past, misplacing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could get an locksmith to come to your location and duplicate your key at a reasonable cost. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced, keys have also become more expensive.
Depending on the kind of vehicle and the year the process of replacing the car key that was lost could require several steps and cost you hundreds of dollars. It's always a smart idea to keep an additional set of keys for your car in your pocket. This is particularly true when you live in an area of danger or a place with an abundance of theft.
While it might seem like it's a waste of time to call your insurance company, calling them could save you money in the long run. Certain policies will cover the cost of a new car key, so be sure to check with your insurance provider prior to losing a key and find yourself in need.
If your policy provides roadside assistance, you should consider this. If website link does, the company could send someone out to assist you out of your situation, and that might be less stressful than dealing with a locksmith or dealership.
Be sure to thoroughly search your car before you contact your insurance company. If you think they're in your car, look in the trunk and under the seat. Check the pockets of your clothes as well as other places where you may have been accustomed to putting them. You should also check the places where you may have left them, such as your purse or a desk that is cluttered.
Call replace lost car key to replace the keys once you've tried to locate them. This is usually not a problem, and it's cheaper than calling a locksmith or visiting the insurance company.
Ask the dealer to make an extra key for you, particularly when your car doesn't come with a remote. Usually you can have your dealership make a spare for you without altering anything else in your car. If you choose to do this, be sure to keep the key in a secure and safe location so that you can find it next time you lose it.
4. Call the Police
Reporting lost car keys can help you find them and ensure your safety. If someone drives your car on public roads or on private property without permission, the person could be penalized. You can safeguard yourself by reporting your keys stolen before someone else steals your car. This will leave a paper trail that shows the time and date of the theft.
Losing car keys is a common occurrence however it doesn't have to be to be a major issue. You can get a replacement car key quickly and easily if make contact with the right people. If you follow the suggestions in this article, you'll even be able to avoid any future key loss!
First, try to retrace your steps. This will allow you to recall where you may have lost your key. If you were driving to work and then stopped at a restaurant in order to take a bite, you may remember that keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you are unable to locate your key, you might have put it in the bag you carried around with things or on the table you ate at.
Posting your lost key online is another good idea. This will reach a wide audience and increase your chances of finding it. You can also check local businesses and bulletin boards in the community.
Before you begin searching for your keys, you need to write down the VIN number of your vehicle. You'll need this information to replace your key, so it's important to keep it safe. The VIN is typically located on your driver's license but can also be found on your insurance card and in the owner's manual of your vehicle.
After you've exhausted all other options and have exhausted all other options, it's time to contact the police. They'll be capable of providing you with temporary replacements for your car and can file a report that will be useful if the keys are ever found.