Sage Advice About Lost Car Key Replacement From An Older Five-Year-Old How to Avoid Overpaying For Lost Car Key Replacement

In the past, misplacing- or even losing your car keys wasn't an issue. Nowadays, automobiles are more advanced and replacing lost keys is a pain.

The first step is to go back your steps and thoroughly search your pockets, bags and other places where you may have put them down. You can then contact a locksmith.

Retract Your Steps

If your RV steps won't retract/extend, first check to ensure that the engine has been turned off. It's possible that the electronic components in your steps have failed and they're ignoring commands from the RV's ignition key to retract when the doors are closed. If this is the case, simply flipping the switch to "auto" or "on" and you'll be able to fix the issue.

If the steps are making noises but not moving, start by looking around for any obstructions that could be stuck. Clean and grease the steps. Listen to the sound and decide if it is coming from the motor or the gear.

You can program certain steps into your vehicle yourself. Check the instructions that came along with your keys or the owner's manual for more information. Sometimes, the procedure involves closing and opening the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices on and off, and then pressing a series of buttons.

Call Your Insurance

It wasn't too long ago that losing the car key wasn't an issue. It was annoying but in the event that you had a spare key, you were okay. It's a little more difficult to find your keys in modern automobiles. It is important to be prepared for this scenario.

If you have roadside assistance coverage, you can contact your insurance company and they will send a locksmith you back inside your vehicle. The cost to do this will depend on the type of key your car utilizes. You can also refer to your owner's manual to see what procedure is followed for reprogramming keys to work with your vehicle. The key must be programmed to the vehicle's system and can usually be done by opening and closing doors, turning lights and other electronics on or off, and pressing a number of buttons like a code.

Double-checking every obvious place to look for your keys is a good idea. They may have been put in a purse, pocket, or in the trunk of your vehicle. If you're still unable locate them, it's probably a good idea to call your dealer. The dealer can assist you to create an entirely new key and have it programmed to your vehicle. To do this, they will require the original key as well as evidence of ownership. The cost of a replacement key will vary from dealership to dealership.

The more advanced and high-tech your car's entry system, the more expensive the replacement key will be. Older mechanical keys tend to be the easiest to replace because they aren't as complex. If your car is a newer model that has an electronic key, fob or remote lock and unlock feature, you'll likely require an insurance claim to cover the cost of replacing it.

If your insurance policy or coverage does not permit you to claim an auto key replacement the policy of another insurance company or warranty may provide the funds. Write down your vehicle identification (VIN) to help you locate someone who can assist. It is usually located on the dashboard of the driver's side or on the windshield and you may be able to look for it in your owner's manual or in the vehicle information section of your insurance policy.

Visit the Dealership

Car keys aren't only costly however, they're one of the most frustrating things to lose. They can make your whole day go down the drain and you'll have to retrace your steps to determine whether they fell through the crack you didn't notice. In these situations it is recommended to contact the dealer or manufacturer. They'll be able to provide you with a replacement key much faster than any other service provider.

Depending on the model of your vehicle, the type of key you own and your roadside assistance coverage, dealerships may differ in the speed at which they can make a brand new key for you. They will have the greatest information about your car and can make a key using genuine parts for your vehicle.

If you own an older car with a traditional double-edged key, you can still get an alternative made at any hardware store, if you have the key code or VIN number to reference. If you own an older model that has an electronic key fob that locks and starts your car, however only the dealer will be able to provide a replacement.

You'll need to go in person and present proof of ownership, as well as an ID with a valid photo and the 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) to get a new key created for your vehicle. If you're unable to go to the dealer for any reason, your roadside assistance insurance should be able to have someone visit your location and create copies for you. However, cost of a replacement car key could take a while and you'll be required to pay the replacement cost in the meantime. It's important to have a spare key on hand in these scenarios.

Call an expert locksmith

Losing your car keys isn't as simple as it used to be, and it's a lot more expensive. A replacement key for your car can cost as much as $500 based on the type and model. There are a few options to avoid overpaying for your lost car key replacement. The first step is to call a professional locksmith in Brooklyn. You can then be confident that the job will be done right.

A locksmith can assist you in getting your replacement key more quickly than a dealer and will likely be able to complete the task at a lower cost. They'll also be able to cut and program your new key on the same day, unlike a dealer that may have to order the key from the manufacturer.


Before you call, make sure you know the year, model and year of your vehicle. You'll also need to provide proof of ownership, such your registration or title. Be prepared with this information before you lose your keys will save you time and money.

There are a variety of keys for cars, but the most common is the classic metal key. The key fits inside the ignition cylinder and then starts the engine. This type of key is able to be replaced by the majority of locksmiths for cars, but they will need to obtain a copy of the key code for your car from the manufacturer. This isn't a problem with most modern vehicles, but older keys might not have this code anymore.

Another type of car key is the remote control key fob, which is able to open your doors and start your engine. They emit an electronic signal that is recognized by the car, but they can only be used if they're within the range of the car. A specialist at a dealer or locksmith can repair this kind of key, but it is recommended to keep a backup.

If you don't have an extra key, your last alternative is to use a Bluetooth tracker. These small devices are usually only a few dollars, and attach to your key ring. The device will send a text message to your phone when the key is within range so you can quickly find it.