How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Things are often lost in the rush of getting kids to and from school, completing errands and working. Our car keys are one of the most frequently lost items.
In the past, you could easily replace this at the local locksmith or hardware store. Nowadays, that is not as simple.
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
Your car dealer is the first person you should call should you lose your keys. www.g28carkeys.co.uk/replace-lost-car-keys-near-me/ keep track of every key made for their vehicles, making it easy for them to locate yours. It is expensive to visit a dealer and therefore, you should shop around. You might be able to find a cheaper option by using an auto locksmith.
You'll likely have to give the dealership your vehicle identification number or VIN, along with proof of ownership (such as a copy registration or title) to receive an alternative key. The dealership will order the replacement key and attach it to your vehicle. The dealer will have to complete this lengthy procedure.
Many vehicles today come with a special type of key known as a smart keys. They are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, which allows for keyless entry and start. They are usually used with push-to-start ignitions. You can purchase a brand new smart key from the dealership, but the cost is very expensive. Local auto locksmiths can create you a smart key at only a fraction of the cost.
You can also purchase a replacement for the key you have always had at your local hardware store. They will be able to make an ordinary key that will fit the lock cylinder in your car. They will need the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you are unable to locate the VIN, it is usually printed on a metal plate that is located on the driver's side doorpost or the dashboard. Most automotive locksmiths will be able to offer a car key replacement even if they don't have the original. However, in some cases they might need to take apart the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. It's not a risky job, but it does require some mechanical knowledge.
2. Call an expert locksmith
The most frequent reason for roadside assistance is because you've lost your car keys. It's important to keep a spare key on you and make sure it's somewhere safe. Even the most careful of people could lose their keys. It is essential to search thoroughly for the key and to notify your insurance company as quickly as possible in order to decrease the chance of being denied a claim in the event that it is found later stolen.
A locksmith's call is the best option if you don't own an extra key. A locksmith can generally offer a replacement key for less than what the dealership will cost. They will usually come out to your location and make the key on the spot, which is much more convenient than having to bring your vehicle back to the dealership.
The type of car key that you have could affect the cost of replacing it. Traditional keys are able to be replaced at most hardware stores for $10 each, are the most affordable. If your car is equipped with an ignition key that can be used as a remote to unlock and start the vehicle, or a smart-key that is only able to be replaced at an auto dealer, the cost of these keys is typically more expensive than traditional keys.
In most cases, an automotive locksmith will be able to replace a key fob or smart key if they can get the VIN number of your car, which is typically found on a metal plaque on the driver's side doorpost, or etched into the windshield of your vehicle. They will also need evidence that you own the car and have an original registration or title.
It is essential to do your research before hiring a locksmith. You can find reputable auto locksmiths by searching online or asking family and friends for suggestions. Be aware that using a fake key to start your vehicle could result in an infringement of warranty. A key that is not authorized could cause damage to the lock on your car. If you do not want to take this risk, it is best to call roadside assistance instead of a car locksmith and wait until the dealer sends out a replacement key.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Panic is among the most negative reactions you can be experiencing when you lose your keys. The first thing you should do is to take your breath and try to think about the situation. Most likely, you lost your keys because you misplaced them instead of having them stolen. The next step is retrace the steps you followed and try to locate the place where your keys were. It could be helpful to look around in places that you would not normally check like pockets in your pants or coat or in a bag you carry when running. After you've inspected these areas it is time to call your insurance company.
Modern cars are fitted with electronic keys that communicate with your vehicle via a chip. This communication lets the car recognize the key fob and unlock the doors, as well as start the engine. It's important that you immediately report the loss of your keys immediately to prevent unauthorized individuals from utilizing your vehicle.
Some car insurance providers offer a policy add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. It's worth talking to your insurance provider to see if they offer this type of coverage or if you can find an individual locksmith that will pay for the cost.
It is possible to replace a mechanical key in many hardware stores for a reasonable price. If your car has an electronic key that is connected to your car via the chip, then you will have to visit your dealer to get an alternative. It's not cheap however it's much cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith.
In the event of filing an insurance claim due to a stolen car key can increase your insurance rates. This is because your insurance company will consider you high-risk driver for loosing your car keys, and may raise your premiums to cover the cost of settling a claims claim. Fortunately, you can often avoid the extra expenses by purchasing a tracking device to locate your car key that has been lost or letting a locksmith design an entirely new key without copying the original.
4. Contact a Tow truck
Everyone would hate to lose their car keys. It is the worst scenario that could happen. If it does happen it could be costly to replace the lost key and get back on the road. That's why it's best to be prepared in case it happens, so that you won't need to call an tow truck and keep your money in your wallet.
When you've lost your car keys, the first step is to retrace your steps. This will help you find the keys and calm your panic. You might recall doing something at the supermarket, or dropping your keys on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you find the place to start.
If you are unable to locate your keys, search for places in which they could be, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing or the bag you put them in after you returned home. If you're still unable to locate them, give yourself some time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.
A key tracker with bluetooth can be used with your phone. These are small devices you can attach to a keyring, and an app for your smartphone will provide you with the location of your keys.
The cost to replace a car key that is lost may vary depending on what kind of key you have. If you have a traditional key, an automotive locksmith can usually make a new one in a matter of minutes without the original one, which can save you money. If you have an electronic key that utilizes proximity sensors to open the door or turn on the engine, you'll need to visit the dealer to purchase a new one.
You should have a plan in place for the event that you lose your keys. This will help you avoid the hassle of paying for the tow-truck or locksmith. It's easy to lose your car keys when you're tired after a long work day or when your thoughts are focused busy with other things. If you follow these steps, you can make sure that your keys don't disappear forever, and you'll have a back-up plan in the event that they happen to disappear.