How to Get a Replacement Key When Car Keys Are Lost
Losing your car keys is not an ideal situation to be in. Fortunately, most dealers can give you a brand new key, provided that you provide proof of ownership, such as your registration or title.
But replacing the key can cost hundreds of dollars and require several steps. The kind of car you drive will determine the cost and availability.
Cost
It can be a big problem to lose your car keys. There are many options to help you get on the road again. Be aware that the procedure will cost money. These expenses can significantly affect your budget. In general the more sophisticated your car keys is, the more expensive it will be of replacing it. This is due to the fact that keys that are more difficult to duplicate, which makes them more difficult for thieves to take cars.
The type of key you're using also plays a role in the cost of replacing it. Keys made of metal can be replaced more easily and easily, however keys that have electronic chips or remote control keys cost more. Additionally, if you have a smart key it might need to be paired with your car, which can require an appointment at the dealership. This could be a long process, especially when the dealership has an open waiting list.
You should also consider the location of your vehicle when determining the cost of the replacement. If you reside in a rural area you may have to pay more for a replacement key because the locksmith will have to travel farther to reach your home. This can add up and you should be comparing the prices before selecting a locksmith.
The cost of your policy is another aspect to consider. A lot of auto insurance policies will cover the cost of a new key but some do not. To find out the exact cost, you should consult your dealer or insurer.
It is important that you have the year and model, as well as the make of your vehicle prior to contacting an auto dealer or locksmith. This will help them to identify the kind of key you own and the best way to replace it. You should also write down the VIN number. This is a 17 digit code unique to every vehicle. This code is located on the dashboard, inside the engine compartment or in the door jambs of your car.
Time is a factor.
When you lose the keys to your car it can be a stressful time. There are a few things you can do to lessen the stress and speed up the replacement process. Check all the places you've been, such as your home and office. Check your pockets, bags under the seats, and in the trunk. If you're unable to locate your keys, try to retrace your steps and think of where they might be. This will help you avoid wasting time looking for them and save you money.
Car keys are among the most frequently lost items. They can disappear in coat pockets, couch cushions or even completely. This wasn't an issue before the 1990s because you could easily find keys replacements at any dealership for cars or a hardware store. Since the 1990s, cars have been equipped with more sophisticated key fob technology that make it more difficult for thieves to duplicate your car keys.
Modern cars have keys that have transponders. These keys need to be paired to the vehicle's computer. This process takes time and is more expensive than traditional key copies. This process requires special equipment and is only available at certain car dealerships. Additionally, it is recommended to have a spare car key when possible, as it will decrease the amount of time it takes to replace the lost key.
company website to cut down on the cost of your car key is to locate a professional who specializes in key replacement. This kind of technician will typically offer a lower cost than a car dealer and might even be able to supply you with a new key the same day.
It is generally cheaper to hire an auto locksmith since they have the necessary tools and know-how to replace your car keys. They will usually complete the job more quickly than a dealership and provide more quality service.
Accessibility
It is important to have a spare car key at the go. There are plenty of ways to obtain a replacement key in case you lose it. You can reach out to an auto locksmith or online service. You should take into consideration the cost and ease of each option prior to deciding.
If you own a standard mechanical key, the process of replacing it is pretty simple. For a small cost the majority of locksmiths will create new keys on the spot. You can also ask your dealer to replace your key, but you'll require proof of ownership and proof of identification. However, the dealer may not have a key for the vehicle you are looking to purchase in stock.
You could also use a program to make your keys replaceable with the VIN number of the vehicle. This method is usually less expensive than going to a dealership, but may not be suitable for all cars. Certain older cars for instance, require special keys with unique codes in order to unlock the doors and start the engine.
The most important thing to keep in mind when you lose your car keys is to not be anxious. Make a note of where you last saw them. This will help you retrace your steps and find your keys. You can then contact an automotive locksmith or mechanic to get replacement keys.
In certain instances insurance companies will pay the cost of losing a key. It is contingent on the type of key and why you lost it. If you lost your key due to reaching in your pocket to grab your phone and it fell out of your pocket and landed in your pocket, your insurance company might not cover the cost of a replacement. The majority of insurance companies will pay for an alternative key in the event that the original was destroyed or lost in a fire. It is advisable to contact your insurance provider if you lose your keys to ensure that you have a plan in place. This will save both time and money.
Security
Car keys have a strange capability of disappearing. It is possible to not remember to put your keys back in your pocket when you are conducting a quick errand or you might be exhausted after a long working day and put them on the car seat. It's frustrating to discover that your car keys are missing. It was a minor issue, but today it can cost a lot to replace the keys to your car. Keep an extra car key on hand or think about investing in other options, like keyless entry systems or smartphone apps to avoid costly mistakes.
Before calling assistance at the roadside or a locksmith, make sure that you've looked everywhere. Make sure to check every pocket in the clothes you were wearing, and do not be afraid to search in your purse or backpack when it's been long since you've used it. If you are at home, go through your clothes and empty any bags. Also look under tables and other places you might not think to search. It's also an excellent idea to retrace your steps to determine where you last remember having the keys.
Contact the dealership or manufacturer if you're sure that your keys are missing. They might be able to disable the keys to stop them from being used to start your vehicle. They'll need the VIN number which is located on the driver's side of the doorpost or on the metal plate in the windshield.
Another option is a bluetooth key tracker, which will help you locate your keys. These tiny devices emit signals that can be detected by your smartphone. Then, you can utilize the app on your phone to locate your keys. These devices are also available at online and automobile accessory stores. Another method of security is installing an immobilizer which can prevent thieves from using keys stolen to steal your vehicle. You can also decrease the chance of theft by installing a car alarm, which will alert you to anyone attempting to gain entry into your vehicle.