How to Replace a Lost Car Key
Lost car keys are a nightmare for anyone to handle. There are ways to lessen the stress and expenses related to this.
First, ensure that you've checked every place you could have put them. If there's no evidence, you should contact someone. There are many options to think about:
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
A car key is a tiny piece of metal that allows you to open and start your vehicle. It's common to lose your car key. The good thing is that it's simple to replace. This guide will show you how to swiftly and easily replace the standard car key or a smart key.
Smart keys are compatible with numerous newer models of vehicles. They have an electronic chip programmed to function only with the vehicle. If you have an electronic key, you'll need to go to the dealer where you purchased your car to obtain a replacement key. The dealer will have to match the car's key with the key, so it's likely that you'll have to wait for a few days before being able to drive again.
If you're lucky the dealer you go to will have the key in stock and be capable of pairing it to your car immediately. However, the dealer could charge you a fee for this service. Alternatively, you can visit locksmiths who can repair the car key at the price of a lesser amount.
Before you contact your locksmith or dealer make sure you have any spare keys. If you do, keep them in a secure location where they're unlikely to be lost. Also, you might want to look for a secondhand or used key replacement online. They are usually available at a fraction of the price it would cost to get an entirely new key from the manufacturer.
The loss of a car's key can be extremely stressful, but it's not as terrible as people think. It's also not as expensive as many think. If you know who to call and how to locate the replacement key and how to avoid any further losses and you'll be back on the road in short time. One way to ensure that you don't lose your keys is to designate an area for them, and then put them there after you've finished using them. This will become a routine, and ensure that if you misplace your keys, they'll be easy to find.
2. Contact Your Insurance Company
No matter how careful you may be you are, losing your car keys can be a terrifying experience. It's among the three most frequently lost items, and can lead to panic and a frantic search to find your car keys. However, this isn't always an issue and there are many ways to get your car key replacement covered by insurance or other sources.
Depending on the situation, you can attempt to locate the key yourself or contact the dealership or your manufacturer for assistance. Some car dealers can make new keys for cars that are on their lot. However, it's typically more expensive than hiring locksmith. You might also be able to take advantage of roadside assistance coverage for your car to pay the cost of a replacement key dependent on the kind of vehicle and your insurance policy.
Make sure you search your home and car thoroughly for keys prior to you call your insurance. This will help narrow down the area and provide you with a place to start looking. Check all pockets, under the seat, and in other areas. Also, check your wallet, purse, or backpack to make sure keys are still in there. You can have your spare key copied at the locksmith's or dealer's shop to make a brand new key without having to change anything in the vehicle.
If you're still having trouble finding your keys, it could be time to contact the police. The police will file a lost-and found report on your behalf. They may be able track down the key, or let you know that it has been returned. This could be an excellent way to avoid the possibility of having your car taken away. Don't forget to check your phone for lost and found notifications from apps such as Find My iPhone or iCloud. You can also use GPS trackers to find your car, if it's been abandoned.
3. Contact the manufacturer of your car
A lost car key is likely to be one of the most frustrating and inconvenient things that you could lose, since it's almost impossible to open or drive your car without it. However, don't panic - it happens to everyone, but there are solutions that can solve the issue quickly and easily.
If your car was constructed prior to 1981, a standard replacement key is available at an area locksmith or some hardware stores. These keys are mechanical and don't require any additional technology such as chips or transponders. If you have an older key that's high-tech and requires a replacement, it will require replacement by a locksmith dealer. The process could take longer and you'll be required to prove ownership to receive the key.
The remote key is a more advanced version of the traditional metal key, and requires a fob reader to operate. These kinds of keys are more difficult to replace and can range in price between $50-$500 which is why it's always best to have spares!
The most efficient method to replace your car keys that have been lost is to contact the dealer or an auto locksmith. They'll be able to create an entirely new key for you, and will most likely be able to program it to your vehicle so that it is able to start and unlock by pressing one button. This is not always possible if the original key is not available to program with.
When you have lost your keys to your car, try to retrace your steps the best you can. This will allow you to determine the location they went to if they aren't already found and could save you from needing to search your entire house or vehicle in the future. You can also purchase an Bluetooth tracker that you keep on your keychain. This allows you to locate your keys with an app on your smartphone.
4. Contact for a locksmith
Car keys are one of the most annoying things to lose. You could lose your keys anytime, no matter how careful you are. Thankfully, there are some easy steps you can take to fix this problem.
First first, don't be anxious! It can be frightening and difficult to lose your car keys, however you must remain calm and think about what you can do. Retrace your steps. Where were lost my car key and have no spare last? This is an important step to help narrow your search. Then, look in your pockets and other hiding spots you may have used. Also, look behind and between the driver's and passenger's seats. Don't forget to check your purse or backpack if you think you might have left them there!
Call a locksmith if you are unable to locate your car keys. A locksmith can make a new car key and remove the old chip. This can be a much more affordable alternative to going back to the dealership, who will likely charge you a premium for their services.
Another option is to search for discounted replacement keys / key fobs on the internet. 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 someone who can cut and program the key prior to it being able to work on your vehicle So, make sure to shop for a suitable alternative.
If you don't have a spare car key it's worth investing in one. Any locksmith can easily create an appropriate replacement key for you if you are driving a manual vehicle. If you have an electronic key fob or smart key or another technologically advanced key you will be required to contact the dealership for an alternative.