7 Things About Replace Lost Car Key You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing How to Replace Lost Car Keys

In the hustle of sending children to school, running errands and working things tend to become lost. Car keys are one of the most frequently lost items.

In the past you could easily change this at your local locksmith or hardware store. This is not the case anymore.

1. Contact Your Car Dealership

Your car dealer is the first person you should call in case you lose your key. The majority of car dealers keep a record of each key made for their vehicles therefore it should be simple for them to locate your keys. The drawback is that visiting the dealership can be costly so it's crucial to shop around. You may be able to get a lower price by using an auto locksmith.

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


A lot of cars today come with the special kind of key known as a smart key. They are designed to activate a proximity sensor inside the vehicle, allowing the use of a keyless entry system and even starting. These keys are often paired with ignitions that require a push-to start. You can purchase a brand new smart key from a dealership, but the cost is very high. Local auto locksmiths can create you a smart key for a fraction of the cost.

You can also purchase an old-fashioned key replacement from a local hardware store. They can create the standard lock cylinder keys. They will need the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you can't find the VIN on your vehicle it will be engraved on a plaque made of metal that is located on the dashboard or doorpost. Even if you don't have the original, most locksmiths in the automotive industry can provide you with an alternate car key. However, in certain instances they might need to remove the ignition and door locks to accomplish this. replace lost car keys is not a dangerous task, but it requires some knowledge of mechanics.

2. Call a Locksmith

Losing your car keys is among of the most frequent reasons for roadside assistance and calls. It's important to keep a spare key handy with your person and ensure that you keep it in a safe place. However even the most cautious people may lose their car keys. It's important to check thoroughly for the key and notify your insurance company as quickly as you can to minimize the chances of getting denied a claim if the key turns up stolen later.

Calling a locksmith is the next best thing if you don't own an extra key. Locksmiths can usually offer a replacement key for less than the cost a dealership would charge. They are also able to visit your location and make the key on the spot which is more convenient than having to bring your vehicle back to the dealership.

The cost of replacing your car keys can vary depending on the kind of key you have. The most affordable keys are the standard keys that can be bought at most hardware stores. They are about $10 per key. If your car is equipped with keys that can be used as a remote to lock and start the vehicle, or a smart-key that is only able to be replaced at a dealership, the price of these keys is usually more expensive than the standard one.

A locksmith can replace keys that are smart or fob in most cases as long they have the VIN number of your vehicle. It is usually located on the metal plate that is on the driver's doorpost or stamped on the windshield. They will require evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.

Some locksmiths are not licensed or insured, so be sure to investigate them prior to hiring them. You can find auto-locksmiths who are certified by searching on the internet or asking family members and friends for recommendations. Also, be aware that using keys you have not authorized to start the car can result in a violation of your vehicle's warranty. Unauthorized keys can damage your car's lock. If you aren't willing to risk it is a good idea to contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith and wait for a replacement key from the dealer.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

One of the worst things you can do when you lose your car keys is to panic. The first step is to take your breath and try to understand the situation. It is more likely that you misplaced your keys than they were stolen. The next step is to retrace the steps you took and attempt to determine the location where your keys were. You may want to look in areas you're not usually checking, like the pockets of your pants, bag or coat you carry to run in. Once you've checked all these places it's a good idea to call your insurance company.

Modern cars are fitted with electronic key fobs that connect to your car via chips. This communication allows the vehicle recognize the key fob and unlock the doors, and also start the engine. It is crucial to report the loss of your key immediately to prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing your vehicle.

Certain insurance companies provide an add-on to their policy that will cover the cost of a replacement car key. It's worth checking with your insurance provider to see if they offer this type of insurance or if you can find an individual locksmith who will pay for the cost.

It is possible to replace a mechanical key in most hardware stores at a reasonable price. If your car is equipped with an electronic key that is paired with your vehicle using the chip, then you will have to visit the dealership to get a replacement. It can be costly, but it's much cheaper than hiring a locksmith.

Making replacing a lost car key because of a car key that was stolen can increase your insurance premiums. The insurance company could raise your premiums due to the fact that they'll consider you to be a high-risk motorist because you lost your key. Fortunately, you can often save yourself the cost of buying a tracking device that can locate your car key that has been lost or having a locksmith create an entirely new key without copying the original.

4. Contact for a Tow Truck

No one wants to lose their car keys. It is the worst thing that can occur. However, if it does happen, it can be costly to replace the key that was lost and get you back on the road again. It is important to be prepared so that you don't have call a tow-truck and save your money.

Follow your steps in case you've lost your keys. This will help you locate them and ease your anxiety. Make a list of what you did right before losing your keys, such as buying something at the grocery store or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you to identify your starting point.

If you are unable to locate your keys, search in places where you could have placed them, such as the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or in the bag that you used to carry them home. If you can't find them, take some time to relax and then call a locksmith or a tow truck.

Another alternative is to use the bluetooth key tracker app on your phone. These are small devices that can attach to a keyring and an app for your smartphone will provide you with the location of your keys.

The cost of replacing lost car key may vary depending on the type of key that you own. If you have a traditional key, an automotive locksmith can usually make a new one in a matter of minutes without the original, which can save you money. However, if you own an electronic key that relies on a proximity sensor to open the door or turn on the engine, you'll have to visit the dealer to purchase a new one.

It's essential to have a plan in place for when you lose your car keys, so you can save yourself the headache of having to pay for an 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. But by following these tips you can ensure that your keys won't vanish forever and have a backup plan for when they do.