How to Replace Lost Car Keys

It's an absolute nightmare to lose your car keys. Not long ago this was not a big issue, but it's becoming more complicated as cars get technologically advanced.

You can lose your keys when you accidentally knock them off the table while reaching into your pockets to get something else. You can prevent this from happening by keeping a spare key in your home.

1. Contact for a locksmith

It's a fact that losing your car keys could be a major hassle. It's not a reason to panic. If you know what to do and who to contact, getting your car keys changed should just take a couple of steps.

One of the first things to do is go back to where you started. It may seem simple, but it can be hard to do if you are in a hurry or already concerned about losing your car keys. Check all your pockets, bags and the space around your vehicle.

Contact a locksmith if can't find your car keys. Locksmiths are typically capable of creating an entirely new key for your vehicle much more quickly than a dealership. They can also do it for much less than a dealership would cost.

Some dealers are able to create replacement keys, but might not be able to do it in the immediate future or at any time. There are many dealerships with many customers which means they may not be able to accommodate you immediately. They might not be able to create a exact copy of your current key.

Another option is to purchase an online replacement for your car key. The keys are available on Amazon and elsewhere for a much lower price than you would purchase from the dealer. However, they might not be able to cut and program keys that are specific to your car model.

Certain insurance policies will cover the cost to replace the vehicle's lost key fob or stolen key. It's worth checking your insurance policy to see if it will cover the cost of replacing a car key. Be aware that you'll be required to provide proof of ownership and identification to the company or individual who is responsible for the creation of the replacement key. This is required by law. If you're not able prove ownership, it can be very costly.

2. Contact the Dealership

A few years ago, misplacing - or even losing - your car keys was not an issue. You could easily get an alternative key from the dealership and it didn't cost too much to get it done. This is no longer the case, since cars are more sophisticated and keys are more expensive. It's not uncommon to shell out hundreds of dollars for a brand new set of keys if you lose them today.

If you've lost your car keys first thing you must do is act calmly. This will enable you to think clearly and make the right decision. Also, make sure that you have a backup set of keys somewhere else, such as in your pocket or the trunk of your car so that if you do lose the original keys, you won't be out any money at all. Find out whether your insurance or warranty covers the cost of a key replacement. This can help you save money in the event of an emergency.

The next step is to do an exhaustive search of your car, home, and your wallet or purse for keys that are missing. You could also retrace the steps you took, recollecting when you last held your keys and where you were at the time you lost them. This might help you determine where they ended up and could be an enormous relief.

If you've completed an exhaustive search but are unable to locate your car keys, the next step is to call your dealership. Dealerships are knowledgeable about your particular vehicle, which is why they're the best option for a replacement key. However, they're often full and cannot accommodate people with short notice, which could cause the process to be frustrating.

If you're able to get a hold of the dealership you're dealing with, they'll be able to create an entirely new key for you in accordance with the VIN number on file. They can also modify your immobilizer, which is necessary to start your car. Locksmiths are a good option for those who want a fast, reliable solution without having to wait at the dealership.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

In the past, misplacing your car keys was not an issue. You could call a locksmith to travel to your location and duplicate your key for a reasonable fee. As cars have become more technologically advanced, keys have also become more expensive.

Depending on the type of vehicle and year the process of replacing the car key that was lost key what to do could take several steps and cost you hundreds of dollars. This is why it's recommended to keep an extra set of keys in the go, especially if reside in a neighborhood that is dangerous or an area where theft is a common occurrence.

It might seem like a waste of time to call your insurance provider, but it can save you money over time. Some policies will cover the cost of a brand new car key, so be sure to inquire with your insurance agent prior to losing a key and you find yourself in need.

Another thing to take into consideration is whether your policy includes roadside assistance. If it does, the service could send someone out to assist you with your situation which could be less stressful than dealing with a locksmith or dealership.

Make sure you thoroughly inspect your car prior to you call your insurance provider. If you think they're in the car, try looking in the trunk and under the seat. If you're at home, look in the pockets of the clothes you were wearing and in other places you may have a habit of putting them. You should also double-check the areas where you might have left them, such as in your purse or a cluttered desk.

Call your dealer to replace the keys after you've tried to find them. Most of the time it won't be a problem and will be much cheaper than hiring a locksmith or working through an insurance company.

While you're at the dealer, you might want to inquire about having a spare key made, particularly if you don't have a key fob. The dealership is usually able to create an additional key for you, without having to alter any other part of your car. If you choose to do this, be sure you keep the spare key in a safe and secure place so that you can locate it the next time you lose yours.

4. Call the police

Not only will the act of reporting your lost car keys cost to replace car keys to the police help you find keys, but it also helps keep you safe from thieves. If someone drives your vehicle on public streets or private property without permission, the person could be charged with a fine. You can protect yourself by reporting keys stolen prior to someone stealing your car. This will leave a trail of paper that shows when and who reported the theft.

Losing car keys is a frequent occurrence but it doesn't need to be a catastrophe. You can obtain a replacement car key quickly and easily if you contact the right people. You can also prevent the possibility of losing keys in the future by following the suggestions that are provided in this article.

Try to trace your steps. This will help you remember where you might have lost your key. If you were driving to work, then went to a restaurant to get some food and drinks, you might remember that your keys were in your pocket as you left the vehicle. If you cannot find your key, you might have put it in the bag that you carried around with things or on the table you dined at.

Posting your lost car keys replacement key online is a great idea. This will reach a large audience and increase the chances of finding it. You can also contact local businesses as well as other community bulletin boards.