How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Losing car keys is a nightmare. This wasn't an issue until recently however, as cars become more technologically advanced, it is becoming more difficult.
You can lose your keys when you accidentally knock them off the table when you reach into your pocket to get something else. Having an extra key in the house can save you from such situations.
1. Call a Locksmith
Losing your car keys can be a major inconvenience. It's not a reason to be in a panic. If you know what to do and who to call to get your car keys changed should only take a couple of steps.
One of the first things you need to do is retrace your steps. This may sound like a straightforward step, but sometimes it isn't easy to do when you're in a rush or are already panicking over the loss of keys to your car. Check all your pockets, bags, and the surrounding area around your vehicle.
If you haven't been able to find your car keys, you need to call a locksmith. Locksmiths can usually make a key for your car faster than an auto dealer. They can also do it for much cheaper than a dealership will charge.
Some dealerships are able to create replacement car keys as well, but they may not be able to do it for you immediately or at all. There are many dealerships that receive an abundance of customers and therefore may not be able to help your request immediately. They may not also be able to create a exact copy of your existing key.
Another option is to purchase a replacement car key online. The keys are available on Amazon and other sites for a much lower price than you would pay an auto 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. It's worth checking whether you have coverage which will help pay for the cost of getting an additional key for your vehicle. Be aware that you'll need to provide proof of ownership and proof of identity to the individual or company who makes the replacement key. This is legally required. It could be costly if you are unable to prove ownership.
2. Contact the Dealership
In the past the possibility of misplacing or losing your car keys was not a huge deal. It wasn't too expensive to buy a new key from the dealer. However, with cars getting more advanced in technology and keys becoming more expensive to replace it's not as simple as it was in the past. If you have lost your keys today, it's not unusual to spend several hundred dollars to have them replaced.
If you've lost your car keys the first thing you should do is be calm. This will enable you to think clearly and make the right decision. Also, make sure that you have a backup set keys in your pocket or in the trunk of your car, in case you lose the originals, you won't be out any money. It is also important to determine if the replacement is covered by your warranty or car insurance which could help you save cash in the event of a need.
The next step is to do a thorough search of your car, home and your purse or wallet for the missing keys. You can also go back through the steps you took, remembering when you last held your keys and where you were when you lost them. This might assist you in determining where they ended up, which can be a huge relief.
If you've completed an exhaustive search but can't locate your car keys, the next option is to contact your dealership. Dealerships are knowledgeable about the specific car you have, so they're the best place to go for a replacement key. However, they're often busy and aren't able to accommodate customers at short notice, which could make the process difficult.
If you get in touch with your dealer, they will be able create keys for you using the VIN number that is stored on their system. They can also reprogram the immobilizer device that's required to start your vehicle. Locksmiths are an excellent choice if you want a quick and reliable solution, without having to wait at the dealership.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing car keys was not a problem. A locksmith could visit your home and duplicate your keys for a reasonable price. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced, keys have also become more expensive.
Depending on your vehicle type and year, replacing a lost key can be a long procedure that could cost hundreds of dollars. It's always a smart idea to have an extra set of car keys in your possession. This is especially important in the case of a dangerous area or in an area that has a high rate of theft.
While it may feel like it's a waste of time to call your insurance company, doing so could save you money in the end. Contact your agent to see if you can get a replacement car key insured by your policy.
Another thing to consider is whether your policy includes roadside assistance. If it does, the service could send someone out to assist you with your situation which could be less stressful than dealing with a locksmith or dealership.
Before calling your insurance company, make sure to thoroughly search for your keys. If you believe they're in the car, look in the trunk and under the seat. If you're at home, look in the pockets of the clothes you were wearing and in other places you may have a habit of putting them. You should also double-check the areas where you might have left them, such as in your purse or a desk that is cluttered.
Contact your dealer for replacement of the keys once you've tried to find them. In most cases this shouldn't be a problem and will cost less than hiring a locksmith or working through an insurance company.
Ask the dealer to make a spare key for you, especially when your car doesn't come with a remote. In most cases you can have your dealership make an extra key for you, without changing anything else inside your vehicle. If you choose to do this, be sure to keep the key in a secure and safe place to find it next time you lose yours.
4. Call the police
Notifying your car keys that you lost can help you find them and keep you safe. If G28 Car Keys steals your vehicle without permission, they could be subject to fines if they drive it on city streets or on private property. If you report your keys lost before the person gets away with your vehicle, you'll know that you have an official paper trail of when the car went missing and who reported it.
It's not uncommon to lose keys to your car, but it doesn't have to be a major issue. You can obtain a replacement car key quickly and easily if contact the right people. If you follow the guidelines in this article, you'll even be able to prevent any future key loss!
First, try to retrace your steps. This will give you a good idea of where your keys might have gone missing, and it can also help you remember what you were doing at the time. If you were driving to work and then went to a restaurant to get some food and drinks, you might remember that your keys were in your pocket as you left the vehicle. If you are unable to locate your key, it might be in the bag you carried things around or on the table at which you sat down to eat.
Posting your lost key online is a good idea. This will reach a wide audience and increase the chances of finding it. You can also inquire with local businesses and other bulletin boards.
Before you begin searching for your keys, you need to write down the VIN number of your vehicle. This information is required to replace your keys, which is why you must keep it secure. The VIN is typically located on your driver's license, however, it can also be found on your insurance card or in the owner's manual of your vehicle.
Once you've exhausted all other options then it's time to call the police. They'll be capable of providing you with temporary replacements for your vehicle and can make a report that could come in handy if the keys are ever discovered.