How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Losing car keys is a major headache. In the past, it wasn’t a big issue, but it’s becoming more complicated as cars become technologically advanced.

Keys can be lost when you accidentally knock them off the table when you reach into your pocket to find something else. A spare key in the house can save you from such situations.

1. Call an expert locksmith

There’s no denying that losing your car keys could be a major hassle. It’s not a reason to be in a panic. If you know what to do and who to contact, getting your car keys replaced should only take a couple of steps.

One of the first things to do is try and go back to where you started. It may seem obvious but it’s difficult to do if are in a rush or concerned about losing your car keys. Be sure to inspect all bags and pockets in which you may have put them down, and also the space around your car.

If you’ve been unable to locate your car keys, it’s time to contact an locksmith. Typically, locksmiths will be in a position to make a new key for your vehicle much quicker than the dealership. In addition, they will usually complete the task for much less than what a dealership would charge you.

Some dealerships can create replacement car keys as well but they might not be able do it for you in a hurry or even at all. There are many dealerships with many customers which means they may not be able accommodate you right away. Additionally, they might not be able to make an exact copy of your current key.

You can also purchase an online replacement key. The keys are available on Amazon and other websites at a lower cost than what you would purchase from an auto dealer. However, they might not have the ability to cut and program keys that are specific to your car model.

Some insurance policies also provide coverage for the cost of replacing a lost or stolen car key. It is worth examining your insurance policy to see whether it covers the cost of replacing a car key. Remember that you’ll need to provide proof of ownership to the person or company who creates the replacement key. This is legally required. If you’re not able to provide proof of ownership, it could be a very expensive experience.

2. Contact the Dealership

A few years ago the possibility of misplacing or losing – your car keys was not an issue. It was not expensive to purchase new keys from the dealer. This is not the case anymore, since cars are more sophisticated and keys are more expensive. If you lose your keys today it’s not uncommon to pay hundreds of dollars to get them replaced.

You need to act calmly in the event that you’ve lost your car keys. This will help you think clearly and make the right decision on how to fix the issue. You should also make sure that you have a backup set of keys somewhere, like in your pocket or in the trunk of your car, in case you lose the originals they won’t cost you any money. Check to see if your warranty or insurance covers the cost of a replacement key. This could save you money in the event of an emergency.

Next, search your vehicle, your home and purse, or your wallet for keys that are missing. You can also retrace the steps you took, recollecting when you last had your keys and where you were when you lost them. This will help you figure out where they are which is a relief.

Contact your dealer if you aren’t able to locate your keys after a thorough search. Dealerships are knowledgeable about the specific car you have, so they’re the best place to go to get a replacement key. However, they’re often busy and aren’t able to accommodate customers with short notice, which could make the process frustrating.

If you’re able to get a hold of your dealer they’ll be able create a new key for you in accordance with the VIN number that is on the file. They can also reprogram your immobilizer system which is required to start your vehicle. But if you’re looking for an efficient, quick solution that doesn’t require waiting in the dealership, a locksmith could be a better choice.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

In the past losing your car keys wasn’t an issue. You could contact a locksmith to drive to your place of residence and duplicate your keys for a reasonable fee. However, as cars have become more technologically advanced, so have keys, and they’re more expensive to replace than ever before.

Based on the type of car you drive and year replacing a lost or damaged key can be a long procedure that could cost hundreds of dollars. This is why it’s a good idea to have an extra set of keys in hand, especially if you reside in a neighborhood that is dangerous or a place where theft is a common occurrence.

It might seem like a waste to call your insurer but it can actually save you money in the long run. Talk to your agent to see whether you are able to get a replacement car key covered by your policy.

If your policy provides roadside assistance, it is advisable to take into consideration this. If you have roadside assistance, a person could come to your aid. This is less stressful than dealing with a dealership or locksmith.

Before you call your insurance company, make sure to thoroughly search for your keys. If you believe they are in the car, look inside the trunk and beneath the seat. Check the pockets of your clothes and other places where you have been used to putting them. Make sure you check any places you might have left them. For instance, in your purse or in a messy office.

Call your dealer to replace the keys once you’ve attempted to locate them. This is usually not a problem, and it’s cheaper than calling a locksmith or going to the insurance company.

While you’re at the dealer, you might want to ask whether you can have a spare key made, especially when you don’t have an actual key fob. In most cases the dealership will be able to make a spare for you without altering anything else in your car. If you decide to do this, make sure to keep the key in an area that is safe and secure so you can find it in the event that you lose it.

4. Contact the police

Reporting lost car keys can help you find them and ensure your safety. If a person drives your car on public streets or on private property without permission, the individual may be fined. You can help protect yourself by reporting your keys stolen before someone steals your vehicle. This leaves a trace on paper that reveals who and when they reported the theft.

It’s not uncommon to lose keys to your car, but it doesn’t have to be a catastrophe. You can obtain a replacement car key quickly and easily if make contact with the right people. You can also avoid any future key loss by following the suggestions provided in this article.

Then, try retracing your steps. This will give you an idea of where your keys might have been lost and will aid in remembering what you were doing at the time. If you were driving to work, then stopped at a restaurant in order to take a bite, you may remember that your keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you can’t find your key, it might be in the bag you carried things around or on the table at which you sat down to eat.

Another option is to publish your most important loss online. This will reach a wide audience and increase the chances of finding it. You can also check local businesses and bulletin boards for community groups.

Before you begin looking for your keys, it’s important to note down the VIN number of your vehicle. You’ll need this information to replace your keys therefore it’s essential to keep it safe. The VIN is typically located on your driver’s license but can also be found on your insurance card or in the owner’s manual of your vehicle.

After you’ve exhausted all other options and have exhausted all other options, it’s time to contact the police. lost car key replacement can get an emergency replacement car from the police department, and they’ll also submit an investigation report that can be helpful if your keys are ever found.