5 Lost Car Keys Lessons Learned From The Pros

how to Replace lost car key to Replace Lost Car Keys

It's a nightmare to lose your car keys. It wasn't that long ago, this wasn't a huge issue, but it's becoming more complicated as cars get technologically advanced.

Most of the time, you lose your keys due to the fact that you've reached into your pockets for something else, and then accidentally dropped them off somewhere. You can avoid this by keeping a spare key in your home.

1. Contact an expert locksmith

It's a fact that losing your car keys can be a huge inconvenience. However, there's no need to be in a panic. If you know what to do and who to call, getting your car keys replaced should be a matter of a few steps.

One of the first things to do is try and try to retrace your steps. This may seem simple however it can be difficult to do if are stressed or worried about losing your car keys. Make sure you check all your pockets, bags and the space around your vehicle.

Call a locksmith if you can't find your car keys. Locksmiths are typically capable of creating a new key for your car much faster than the dealership. Additionally, they are able to accomplish this for much cheaper than the dealership will charge you.

Some dealerships can make keys for cars that are replacements, but they may not be able to do it immediately or even at all. There are many dealerships with many customers, so they might not be able to help your request immediately. They may not also be able to create a exact copy of the existing key.

You can also buy a replacement key online. You can find them on Amazon and other sites for much cheaper than the price you pay at a dealer, however, they might not be able to cut or program them to your specific model of car.

Some insurance policies also cover the cost of replacing a stolen or lost car key. So, it's always worthwhile to check if you have coverage that will cover the cost of getting the new key for your car. Remember that you'll need to provide proof of ownership to the person or company who is responsible for creating the replacement key. This is required by law. It can be extremely costly if you are unable to provide proof of ownership.

2. Contact the Dealership

A few years ago the possibility of misplacing or losing - your car keys was not a huge deal. It wasn't too expensive to buy an alternative key from the dealer. This is no longer the case, since cars are more sophisticated and keys are more expensive. If you lose 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 to act in a calm manner. This will help you think clearly and make the right decision about how to solve the issue. Also, make sure that you have a backup set keys somewhere, like in your pocket or the trunk of your car, in case you lose the original keys, you won't be out any money. Check to see if your warranty or insurance covers the cost of a key replacement. This could save you money in the event of an emergency.

The next step is to search your car, your home, your purse, or your wallet for keys missing. You could try to trace your steps, remembering where you last had them and the location you were in when you lost them. This will help you figure out where they are, which is a great relief.

Contact your dealer if you haven't found your keys after an exhaustive search. Dealerships are familiar with the specific car you have, so they're the best option for a new key. They are often busy and are not able to accommodate customers with short notice. This could make the process difficult.

If you can contact your dealer they'll be able create an original key for you based on the VIN number on file. They can also modify the immobilizer system that's required to start your vehicle. Locksmiths are a good option for those who want a fast, reliable solution without having to wait in the dealership.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

Not so long ago losing your car keys wasn't an issue. A locksmith could visit your home and duplicate your keys for an affordable cost. As cars have become technologically advanced, the keys are also becoming more expensive.

Depending on your vehicle type and year, replacing a lost key can be a long process and cost hundreds of dollars. That's why it's always an excellent idea to keep an extra set of keys on the go, especially if reside in a neighborhood that is dangerous or a place where theft is a common occurrence.

It might seem like a waste of time to call your insurer but it can actually save you money over time. Talk to your agent to see if you can get an alternative car key that is covered by your policy.

Another thing to take into consideration is whether your insurance policy offers roadside assistance. If you have roadside assistance, a person might be able to help you. This is a less stressful option than dealing with a dealership or locksmith.

Be sure to thoroughly search your vehicle before you call your insurance company. If you believe they are in the car, check in the trunk and underneath the seat. If you're at home check the pockets of the clothes you were wearing as well as in other places you may have a habit of putting them. Also, double-check the places where you may have left them, such as your purse or a cluttered desk.

After you've tried to find the keys to your car, it's an excellent idea to call your dealer to get them replaced. In most cases it won't be a problem and will cost less than hiring a locksmith or working through an insurance company.

Ask the dealer to make an extra key for you, especially if your car doesn't have an remote. In most cases the dealership will be able to make the spare key for you without altering anything else in your car. If you do this, make sure you keep the key in a safe and secure place so that you can locate it the next time you lose yours.

4. Call the Police

Notifying your car keys that you lost will help you locate them and keep you safe. If someone drives your car on public roads or private property without permission, the driver could be penalized. You can protect yourself by registering your keys stolen before someone steals your vehicle. This will leave a paper trail that will show when and who reported the theft.

Car keys are lost is a frequent occurrence however it doesn't have to be to be a disaster. If you contact the appropriate people, you'll be capable of obtaining the replacement key fast and easily. If you follow the guidelines in this article, you'll even be able to prevent any future key loss!

Follow your steps. This will give you a clear idea of where your keys might have been lost and will help you remember what you were doing at the time. For instance, if were returning home from work and then went to get food at a restaurant, you might be able to remember that the keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you can't find your key, it might be in the bag you carried things around or on the table where you sat down to eat.

Posting your key online is a great idea. This will reach a wide audience and increase the likelihood of finding it. You can also contact local businesses and other community bulletin boards.

Before you start looking for your keys, be sure to note down the VIN number of your vehicle. This information is required to replace lost key for car your keys, which is why you should keep it in a safe place. The VIN is typically located on your driver's license, but can also be found on your insurance card and how to replace lost car Key in your car's owner's guide.

Once you've exhausted all other options then it's time to call the police. They'll be able to provide you with an interim replacement for your car, and they can also make a report that could come in handy if the keys are ever discovered.