How to Replace a Lost Car Key
Car keys that are lost can be a nightmare to handle. However, there are steps you can do to lessen the stress and expense that comes with it.
First, ensure that you've checked every place you could have placed them. If not, it's time to contact someone. There are many options for you to consider:
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
A car key is a tiny piece of metal that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle. It's not uncommon to lose a car key but the good news is that it's generally easy to replace. This guide will teach you how to quickly and easily replace a standard car key, or smart key.
A lot of newer vehicles have keys that are designed to be "smart." This means they're equipped with an electronic chip that is programmed to work with a particular vehicle. You'll have to visit the dealer where you purchased your car to obtain an additional key if you own an "smart" key. The dealer will need to match the key to your car and, therefore, it's likely that you'll need to wait for a few days before you're allowed to drive again.
If you're lucky, your car dealer will have the key in stock and will be in a position to pair it to your car immediately. The dealer may charge a premium to perform this service. You can also go to locksmiths to replace your car keys at a lower cost.
Before you contact your dealer or a locksmith, check to see if you have any spare keys. If you do, keep them in a secure place in a place where they are unlikely to be lost. Also, you might want to look for a secondhand or used key replacement online. These keys are often cheaper than buying a new key from the manufacturer.
It's not as dire a situation as people think. It's also not as costly as many think. If you know who to contact for help, where to find a replacement key, and how to prevent the possibility of losing your keys again and you'll be back on the road in no time. To ensure that you don't lose your keys, a smart strategy is to designate an area for them. You should always place them there after using them. This will become a habit and will ensure that, should you lose your keys they'll be easy to find.
2. Contact Your Insurance Company
Losing your car keys is a terrifying moment for anyone, no matter how vigilant you are. It's among the top three most misplaced things that people lose, and it can put people in panic and a mad hunt to find their keys to their car. This isn't always a lost case and there are many options to get the replacement of your car keys covered by insurance.
You can either try to find your key on your own or seek assistance from the dealership or your car manufacturer, based on your specific situation. Some car dealers can create new keys for cars that are on their lot. However, it is generally more expensive than hiring a locksmith. You may also be eligible to purchase roadside assistance for your car to cover the cost of a new key, dependent on the type of vehicle and your insurance policy.
Before you contact your insurance company, make sure you have done an exhaustive check of your home and vehicle for the keys. This will help you narrow down the area and provide you with a place to start your search. Examine all pockets, under the seat, and in other areas. It's recommended to check your purse, wallet, or backpack to make sure keys are in there. You can have your spare key cloned by an auto dealer's or locksmith's shop to make a brand new key without having to alter anything inside the vehicle.
If you're still not able to locate your keys after an exhaustive search, it could be time to call the police and report the missing car key. The police will file a lost-and found report on your behalf. They could be able to locate the key, or inform you know that it's been returned. This is a great method to stop your car from being taken. Don't forget to check your phone for notifications about lost and found from apps like Find My iPhone or iCloud. You can also make use of GPS trackers to find your car if it's been abandoned.
3. Contact Your Car's Manufacturer
The loss of a car key is likely to be one of the most frustrating and annoying things you could lose since it's almost impossible to open or drive your vehicle without it. But don't be afraid It happens to everyone, but there are solutions to can get it fixed quickly and easily.
If your car was manufactured before 1981, you can usually find a standard replacement at a locksmith, or in some hardware stores. These keys are purely mechanical and don't require any additional technology, such as chips or transponders. If you have an advanced or high-tech key, it's likely to require replacement by a dealer or an experienced locksmith. The process could be longer and you'll need to prove ownership in order to get the key.
The remote key is an sophisticated version of the standard metal key that requires a fob reader to operate. These kinds of keys are more difficult to replace, and can range in price between $50-$500 and that's why it's best to have spares!
Calling the dealership or a locksmith is the easiest way to replace a lost car key. They can design a key for you and program it so that it will start and unlock your vehicle with a single button press. This is not always possible when the original key isn't programmed.
When you have lost your car keys, try to retrace your steps the best you can. You can use this method to identify where your keys could be if you didn't find them already. It will also save your time as you don't have to search for your house or vehicle in the future. In addition, you can buy a Bluetooth key tracker to put on your keychain, that will allow you to track your keys using an app on your smartphone.
4. Contact a locksmith
Car keys are one of the most annoying things to lose. Keys can be lost at any time regardless of how vigilant you may be. Fortunately, there are easy steps you can take to fix this problem.
First first, don't get stressed! It can be terrifying and difficult to lose your car keys, however you must remain at peace and think about what you can do. Start by retracing the steps. What was the last place you've had them? This is an important step, as it can help you narrow your search. Check your pockets and other hiding places. Also, check behind and between the driver's and passenger's seats. Also, don't forget to check your backpack or purse in the event that you suspect you have left it there.
Call a locksmith if you cannot locate your car keys. A locksmith can create an entirely new car key and take out the old chip. replace lost car key is a cheaper alternative than going back to the dealer, which is likely to charge you a premium for their services.
Another option is to look for discounted replacement keys / key fobs online. You might be able to purchase an aftermarket key for less than you would spend to purchase a brand new key. Find a locksmith who can cut and program the key so that it is compatible with your vehicle.
If you don't have a spare car key it's worthwhile to invest in one. Any locksmith can make a replacement car key for you if you own a manual car. If you have a key fob or smart key, or any other technologically advanced keys, you'll have to contact your dealer for an alternative.