How to Replace a Lost Car Key
Anyone who has lost their car keys understands how frustrating it can be. However, there are steps you can do to minimize the stress and cost that comes with it.
Find out where you may have placed them. If not, you'll have to call someone. You have several options to choose from:
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
A car key is a tiny piece of metal that allows you to open and start your vehicle. It's not uncommon to lose a car key but the good news is that it's usually easy to replace. This guide will show you how to quickly and easily replace the standard car key or a smart key.
A lot of newer vehicles come with keys that are designed to be "smart." This means they're equipped with an electronic chip programmed to work with a specific vehicle. You'll have to visit the dealership where you bought your car to obtain the new key if you have the "smart" key. The dealer will need to match the car's key with the key and, therefore, it's likely that you'll have to wait for a few days before you're allowed to drive again.
If you're lucky the dealer you go to will have the key in stock and will be able to pair it with your car right away. The dealer may charge a fee to perform this service. You can also visit an locksmith who will replace your car key for the price of a lesser amount.
Find out whether there are spare keys before contacting an agent or locksmith. If you do, put them in a safe place in which they're not likely to get lost. Look online for keys that are used, or an aftermarket replacement. They are usually available at a fraction of the price it would cost to get a new key from the manufacturer.
It's not as dire a situation as people think. It's also not as expensive as many think. You'll be back in the car in no time if know who to call, where to find a replacement and how to avoid future loss. To ensure that you don't lose your keys, a smart plan is to set up a specific spot for them, and make sure you put them there after you use them. This will become a routine and make sure that if you misplace your keys, they'll be easy to find.
2. Contact Your Insurance Company
Losing your car keys is an extremely frightening moment for anyone, no matter how careful you are. It's one the three most frequently lost items, and can lead to panic and a desperate search for your car keys. This is not always a lost case and there are many ways to have the replacement of your car keys covered by insurance.
Depending on the situation, you can attempt to locate the key yourself, or contact the dealership and the manufacturer of your car for assistance. Some car dealers will create new keys for cars that are on their lot. However, it's usually more expensive than using locksmith. You may also be eligible to purchase roadside assistance for your vehicle to cover the cost of a replacement key depending on the kind of vehicle and the insurance policy you have.
Before you contact your insurance company, make sure you have done an extensive search of your home and vehicle for keys. This will help you locate the location and provide you with a place to start your search. Make sure to look in every pocket along with the seat and under any cushions. You should also examine your wallet, purse, or backpack to make sure the keys are still there. If you have a spare key, you can have this cloned by a locksmith or dealer to create an entirely new key without needing to alter anything inside the vehicle.
If you are still unable to locate your keys, it could be time to contact the police. The police will file a lost and found report on your behalf. They might be able to locate the key, or inform you know that it's been returned. This is a great method to prevent your car from being taken. Don't forget to look up your phone for notifications of lost and found using apps like Find My iPhone or iCloud. You can also use GPS tracking apps to find your car if it's been surrendered.
3. Contact the manufacturer of your car
A lost car key is likely to be one of the most frustrating and inconvenient things you could lose as it's usually impossible to open your car or drive without it. Don't be worried, it happens to everyone. There are simple ways to fix the issue.
If your vehicle was manufactured prior to 1981, you can typically find a replacement standard at a locksmith or even in some hardware stores. These keys are mechanical and do not require additional technology such as transponders or chips. If you have an older key that is not high-tech the key may require replacement by a locksmith or dealer. This could take longer, and you'll have to prove ownership to obtain the key.
The remote key is a more sophisticated version of the traditional metal key that requires a fob reader in order to operate. They are difficult to replace and cost anywhere from $50 to $500. It is best to have a spare.
The most efficient method of replacing your car keys that have been lost is to contact the dealer or an auto locksmith. They can design a key for you and program it to start and unlock your car with just one button. This is not always possible if the original key isn't programmed.
If you've lost your car keys, attempt to trace your steps as best you can. You can use this method to determine where your keys might be if you haven't found them already. It can also save you time by not having to search for your house or vehicle in the future. You can also invest in a Bluetooth key tracker to put on your key chain that will allow you to locate your keys via an app on your phone.
4. Contact a Locksmith
Car keys can be one of the most annoying things to lose. Keys can be lost at any time regardless of how diligent you may be. There are a few easy steps you can take to get rid of this issue.
First and foremost, try not to panic! Losing your car keys can be a terrifying and frightening experience, but it's important to stay at peace and think about what you can do. Start by retracing your steps. What were they when they last left? This is a crucial step as it can help narrow your search. After that, go through your pockets and other hiding spots you may have used. It is also important to be sure to check behind the driver and passenger seats as well as in between them. Also, don't forget look over your bag or purse if you think you might have left them in the car!
If you're still unable to locate your car keys, it's time to contact a locksmith. A professional locksmith will be able to create a new key for your and wipe the old chip off your vehicle's system. This is a cheaper solution than returning to the dealer who will charge the dealer a premium.
You can also search online for replacement keys or key fobs at discounted prices. key car lost may be able purchase an aftermarket key for less than what you would spend to purchase a brand new key. Be aware that you'll need someone who can cut and program the key prior to it being able to work on your car So, make sure to look around.
If you don't have an extra key for your car, it is worth investing in one. Any locksmith can easily create an alternative car key for you if you have a manual vehicle. However, if you have a smart key, key fob, or another key that is more technologically advanced you'll have to contact the dealer to have a new key made specifically for you.