20 Fun Details About Replace Lost Car Key How to Replace Lost Car Keys

In the shuffle of getting kids to school, running errands and working, things have a tendency to get lost. One of the most frequently lost items that disappears is the keys to our car.


In the past, this wasn't an issue since you could easily replace it at your local hardware store or locksmith. This is not the situation any more.

1. Call Your Car Dealership

If you've lost your car keys The first place to contact is your car dealer. The majority of car dealers keep records of every key that they have made for their vehicles, which means they should be able to find yours. The downside is that going to the dealership can be costly so it's crucial to look around. You may be able to get a cheaper option through an auto locksmith.

In most instances, you'll have to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, such as a copy of your title or registration, to obtain an alternative key from the dealer. The dealership will then purchase a new key and pair it with your vehicle. The dealer will have to complete this lengthy process.

Many vehicles today are equipped with the special kind of key known as a smart key. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor inside the vehicle, allowing for keyless entry and starting. They are usually used with ignitions that require a push-to-start. You can buy a new smart key from the dealership, but the cost is a bit high. A local auto locksmith can make a smart key for you for a fraction of what you'd pay at the dealership.

You can also purchase a traditional key replacement from your local hardware store. They will be able to make an ordinary key that will fit your vehicle's lock cylinder. They will require the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you're unable to find the VIN, it is usually stamped on a metal plaque located on the driver's side doorpost or dashboard. Most automotive locksmiths can offer a car key replacement even if you don't have the original. However, in certain instances, they may need to remove the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. It is not a dangerous job, but it does require some knowledge of mechanics.

2. Contact a locksmith

The most common reason for requesting roadside assistance is when you've lost your car keys. Keep an extra car key with you and store it safely. However even the most vigilant people may lose their car keys. It is important to thoroughly search for the keys and inform your insurance company as soon as you can to minimize your chances of being denied a claim if it happens to be stolen later.

A locksmith's call is the next best thing in the event that you don't have an extra. Locksmiths usually can provide a key replacement at less than what a dealership would cost. They can also visit your location to create the key on the spot which is easier than having your vehicle brought back to the dealer.

The cost of replacing your car keys will vary based on the kind of key you have. The most affordable keys are traditional keys that can be bought at most hardware stores. They cost about $10 per key. If your car is equipped with a key fob, which acts as a remote that can be used to unlock and start the engine or a smart key, which can only be replaced by an auto dealer the keys will typically cost more than the standard key.

A locksmith can replace the smart key or key fob in most cases as long they have the VIN number of your vehicle. It is usually located on the metal plaque on the driver's doorpost, or on the windshield. lost keys of car will also require evidence that you own the car and have the registration or title.

Some locksmiths are not licensed or insured, so make sure to research them before hiring them. You can find reputable auto locksmiths on the internet or asking your family and friends for recommendations. Also, be aware that using keys you have not authorized to start the car can result in a breach of your vehicle's warranty. Using unauthorized key may also cause damage to the lock on your vehicle. If you don't want to take this risk, it is best to call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith for your car and wait until your dealer delivers a new key.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

One of the most dangerous things you can do when you lose your car key is to panic. Take a deep breath, and then try to reason your situation. Chances are that you lost your keys due to you lost them, rather than having them stolen. The next step is retrace the steps you took and attempt to determine where your keys went missing. It's a good idea to check areas you're not usually checking like the pockets of your pants, bags or coats you carry for running. After you've looked in these places, you should call your insurance company.

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs which communicate with your car through chip. This allows the car to recognize the key fob and open the doors, and start the engine. It is essential to immediately report the loss of your keys immediately to prevent anyone who is not authorized from using your vehicle.

Certain car insurance companies offer a policy add-on that covers the cost of replacing a lost car key. Contact your insurance provider to determine if this kind of insurance is offered or if a locksmith can pay for the costs.

It is possible to replace a mechanical key in many hardware stores for a fair price. If your car uses an electronic key that connects to your vehicle via the chip, then you will have to visit the dealership to get an alternative. This can be costly, but it's much cheaper than hiring locksmith.

In the event of filing an insurance claim because of a car key that was stolen can increase your insurance costs. Your insurance company could increase your premiums because they'll consider you to be a high-risk motorist for losing your key. Fortunately, you can avoid the extra expenses by buying a tracking device that can track your lost car key or having a locksmith create the new key without cloning the original.

4. Call a Tow truck

It's the most gruelling thing to lose your car keys, and nobody would want it to happen. If it does happen it could be costly to replace the key and get back on the road. That's why it's best to be prepared if it happens, so that you won't need to call a tow truck, and keep your cash in your wallet.

Follow your steps in case you've lost your keys. This can help you determine where they are, and help you calm your anxiety. You might recall doing something in the grocery store, or dropping your keys on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you pinpoint your starting point.

If you can't find your keys, search for places where they might be, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing or the bag you put them in when you got home. If you're still not able to locate the keys, give yourself time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.

A key tracker bluetooth can also be utilized on your phone. These are tiny devices can be connected to your keyring and have an app for your phone to reveal where your keys are, so you don't have to look through every drawer or pocket in your home.

The cost of replacing lost car key may vary according to the type of key that you own. It is cheaper when you use traditional car keys. A locksmith for automotive is usually capable of making a replacement on the spot, but without the original. If you are using a smart-key that utilizes a proximity detector to open doors or start the engine of your car it is necessary to visit a dealership to purchase a new one.

It is important to have a plan in place for the event that you lose your keys. This will save you the hassle of having to pay for the tow-truck or locksmith. If you're exhausted or distracted, it's easy to lose your car keys. But by following these tips to ensure your keys don't disappear forever and have a backup plan in case when they do.