How to Replace Lost Car Keys
The loss of car keys is a nightmare. This was not an issue until the last few years but as cars get more technologically advanced, it's becoming more difficult.
Most of the time, you lose your keys because you've reached into your pocket for something else and have accidentally thrown them away somewhere. You can avoid such situations by keeping an extra key at home.
1. Call a Locksmith
The loss of your car keys can be a major inconvenience. But, there's no need to panic. As long as you know who to call and what to do it will only take a few steps to get your keys replaced in your car.
One of the first things you need to do is try and retrace your steps. This may sound like an obvious step but it isn't easy to do when you're in a rush or you're already worried about the loss of keys to your car. Make sure you check all your pockets, bags, and the space around your vehicle.
If you've been unable to find your car keys, it's time to call a locksmith. Locksmiths are typically in a position to make keys for your car much faster than a dealership. In addition, they will usually complete the task for much less than the dealership would charge you.
Some dealers are able to make replacement keys, but they might not be able to do it immediately or at any time. There are many dealerships with an abundance of customers, so they might not be able to help your request immediately. They may not also be able to make an exact copy of your existing key.
You can also purchase a replacement key online. These keys can be found on Amazon and other websites at a lower cost than you would purchase from the dealer. However, they may not be able to cut and program the keys to your specific car model.
Certain insurance policies cover the cost to replace a stolen or lost vehicle key. It's a good idea to check your insurance policy to determine if it will cover the cost of replacing a car key. Remember that you'll be required to provide proof of ownership and proof of identity to the individual or company who makes the replacement key. This is legally required. If you're not able to prove ownership, it could be a very expensive experience.
2. Call the Dealership
It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys was not a big deal. You could easily get keys replacements from the dealership and it didn't cost much to do it. However, with cars becoming more advanced in technology and keys becoming more expensive to replace it's not as simple as it used to be. If you lose your keys today, it's not uncommon to spend hundreds of dollars to get them replaced.
If you've lost your car keys the first thing you must do is to act in a calm manner. This will allow you to think clearly and make the right decision about how to solve the problem. It is also important to ensure that you have a backup set keys in your pocket or in the trunk of your car, so that if you do lose the original keys they won't cost you any money. You should also check to see if the key replacement is covered by your warranty or insurance for your car and can assist you in saving cash in the event of a need.
The next step is to conduct a thorough search of your home, vehicle and your purse or wallet for keys that have gone missing. You could also retrace the steps you took, recollecting the last time you had your keys and where you were at the time you lost them. This may be able to assist you in determining the location they went to, which can be a huge relief.
If you've completed an exhaustive search but are unable to find your car keys, the next option is to contact your dealership. Dealerships are familiar with the specific car you have, so they're the best place to go for a replacement key. However, they're usually busy and aren't able to accommodate customers at short notice, which can cause the process to be frustrating.
If you are able to get in touch with your dealership, they will be able to create a key for you using the VIN number that is saved on their system. They can also modify your immobilizer system that is needed to start your vehicle. Locksmiths are an excellent choice if you want a quick and reliable solution that doesn't require you to wait in the dealership.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Not so long ago the time when you lost your car keys was not an issue. You could contact an locksmith to come to your location and duplicate your key for a reasonable fee. However, as cars have become more technologically advanced, so have keys, and now they're more expensive to replace than ever before.
Depending on the kind of vehicle and the year The process for replacing the car key that was lost could take a few steps and can cost you hundreds of dollars. It's always a good idea to have an extra set of car keys in your possession. This is especially important when you live in an area of danger or a place with an extremely high rate of theft.
It might seem like a waste of time to call your insurer but it can actually save you money over time. Certain policies will cover the cost of a new car key, so make sure to speak with your insurance provider before you lose a key and you find yourself in need.
If your insurance policy provides roadside assistance, it is advisable to think about this. If you have roadside assistance, a person could come to your aid. This is a less stressful option than dealing with a dealer or locksmith.
Be sure to thoroughly search your vehicle before you contact your insurance company. If you believe they're in the car, check the trunk and under the seat. If you're at home, check the pockets of the clothes you were wearing as well as in other places you might be prone to putting them. Also, double-check the areas you may have put them, like your purse or a cluttered desk.
Contact your dealer for replacement of the keys once you've attempted to locate them. Most of the time this shouldn't be a problem and it will cost less than hiring a locksmith or going through an insurance company.
While you're at the dealer, you might want to inquire about having a spare key made, especially if you don't have an actual key fob. The dealership is usually able to create an additional key for you without needing to alter any other part of your car. If you do this, make sure you keep the key in a safe and secure place to find it when you lose it.
4. Call the police
Not only does the act of reporting your lost car keys to police help you find keys however, it can also help keep you safe from thieves. If someone steals your vehicle without permission, they could be subject to fines if they drive it on streets in the city or private property. If you report your keys missing before the person makes off with your car, you'll know that you have an official paper trail of when it was missing and who reported it.
It's not uncommon to lose your car keys, but it does not need to be a disaster. You can replace your car key quickly and easily if you call the right people. You can also avoid any future key loss by following the guidelines provided in this article.
Follow your steps. This will give you a good idea of where your key could have gone missing and can aid in remembering what you were doing at the time. If you were driving to work, then stopped at a restaurant in order to purchase food and drinks, you might remember that keys were in your pockets as you left the vehicle. If you are unable to locate your keys, you may have put it in the bag you used to carry around things or on the table you dined at.
Another option is to post your key loss online. This will increase the likelihood of locating the key by reaching a wider audience. You can also inquire with local businesses and other bulletin boards.
It's important that you write down the VIN of your vehicle before you begin looking for your keys. This information is required to replace your keys, so you must keep it in a safe place. https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/replace-lost-car-keys-near-me/ is typically found on your driver's license, but it's also on your insurance card or in the owner's manual of your vehicle.
After you've exhausted all other options then it's time to call the police. You can obtain an emergency replacement car from the police department, and they'll also file a report which is useful in the event that your keys are found.