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

Things are often lost in the rush of bringing kids to and from school, completing errands and working. Our car keys are one of the most commonly lost items.

In the past you could easily replace this at the local locksmith or hardware store. This isn't the situation anymore.

1. Contact Your Car Dealership

Your car dealer is the first person you should contact should you lose your keys. The majority of dealers keep a record of each key they make for their vehicles, so they will be able to locate yours. It can be costly to go to a dealership, so you should look around. You may be able get a lower price by using an auto locksmith.

In most instances, you'll need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and evidence of ownership, like an original registration or title, in order to obtain an alternative key from the dealership. The dealership will then purchase a new key and pair it with your vehicle. This can be a lengthy process, and you will have to wait until the dealer has completed the job.

Many vehicles today have a special type of key called a smart key. They are designed to work with a proximity sensor that can be activated within the car, which allows keyless entry and start. They are typically used in conjunction with ignitions that are push-to-start. The dealer can sell you a smart key, but it's costly. Local auto locksmiths can give you a smart key for a fraction of the cost.

You can also purchase a classic key replacement from your local hardware store. They can design an ordinary lock cylinder key. They will need to know the model year of your vehicle and the VIN. If you cannot locate the VIN on your car it will be engraved on a metal plaque located on the dashboard or driver's doorpost. Even if you do not have the original key, most locksmiths in the automotive industry will be able to provide you with an alternate car key. In some cases the locksmith may need to disassemble the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. This isn't a risky job for a professional, however it requires some mechanical knowledge and skill.

2. Contact a locksmith

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


If you don't have an extra key, the next best option is to call a locksmith. A locksmith can generally provide a replacement key at less than what the dealership will charge. They may also come to your home to make the key on the spot which is easier than having your vehicle taken back to the dealer.

The kind of car key you have could affect the cost of replacing it. The most affordable keys are the traditional keys that can be purchased at many hardware stores. They cost about $10 per key. If lost key car is equipped with keys that can be used as a remote for unlocking and start the vehicle, or a smart-key that can only by replaced at a dealership, the price of these keys will be more expensive than traditional keys.

A locksmith can replace keys that are smart or fob in the majority of cases as long as they have the VIN number of your vehicle. This number is typically found on the metal plate that is on the driver's doorpost or on the windshield. lost car keys will need evidence of ownership, like your registration or title.

Always do your homework prior to hiring locksmith. You can find auto-locksmiths who are certified by searching online or asking family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using a fake key to start your car could lead to a breach of warranty. A key that is not authorized could cause damage to the lock of your vehicle. If you do not wish to take this risk then contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith for cars and wait until the dealer delivers a new key.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

Panic is one of the most unpleasant reactions you could experience when you lose your key. The first thing you should do is to take an inhale and try to rationalize the situation. Most likely, you lost your keys because you misplaced them rather than having them taken. The next step is to retrace the steps you took and try to find out the place where your keys went missing. It may help to check places you wouldn't usually check for items, like pockets on your pants or coat or in a bag you use when running. After you've looked through all of these areas, it's a good idea contact your insurance company.

Modern cars are fitted with electronic keys that connect to your car through a chip. This process of communication allows the car to recognize the key fob, unlock the doors and start the engine. It is essential to report the loss of your key immediately to prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing your vehicle.

Some insurance companies offer an add-on to their policy that covers the cost of a replacement key for your car. Check with your insurance company to see if this type of insurance is offered or if an individual locksmith will cover the costs.

It is possible to replace a mechanical key in most hardware stores for a fair price. If, however, your car is equipped with an electronic key fob that is connected to your car via the chip, you'll have go to the dealership to get the replacement. It can be costly however it's much cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith.

In addition to the cost of replacing your car keys, filing an insurance claim for the loss of a key can cause your car insurance rates to rise. This is because your insurance provider will consider you high-risk driver for loosing your car key and could increase your premiums to offset the cost of making an insurance claim. Fortunately, you can avoid the extra expenses by purchasing a device to track your lost car key or having a locksmith create a new key without cloning the original.

4. Contact a Tow truck

Nobody wants to lose their car keys. It's the most embarrassing thing that can occur. But if it does it could be costly to replace the lost key and get you back on the road again. It is important to be prepared in order that you don't need to call a tow truck and keep your money.

When you've lost your car keys, the first thing to do is trace your steps. This can aid in determining where they are and can help you calm your anxiety. Try to recall the actions you took prior to losing your keys, like buying something at the grocery store or dropping them on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you find 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 after you returned home. If you can't locate them, take some time to relax before calling a locksmith or tow truck.

Another option is to use the bluetooth key tracker app on your phone. These are tiny devices that you can connect to a keyring and an app for your smartphone will show you the whereabouts of your keys.

The cost of replacing a lost car key may vary depending on the type of key that you own. If you have a conventional key, an automotive locksmith can generally make a new key immediately without the original one, which can save you money. However, if you own an electronic key that relies on the 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 important to have a plan in place in case you lose your car keys so that you will not have the hassle of having to pay for the tow truck or locksmith. It's easy for you to forget your car keys when you're tired after a long day, or when your mind is on other things. By following these tips you can make sure that your keys don't disappear forever, and have backup plans in case they do.