How to Replace Lost Car Keys

It's an absolute nightmare to lose car keys. In the past, this was not a big deal but it's getting more complicated as cars become technologically advanced.

Often you lose your keys because you've reached into your pocket to find something else, and then accidentally thrown them away somewhere. You can prevent this from happening by keeping a spare key in your home.

1. Contact a locksmith

The loss of your car keys can be an enormous inconvenience. But, there's no need to be in a panic. If you know what to do and who to call, getting your car keys replaced should only take a couple of steps.

You should try to retrace the steps you made. This might sound like a simple task but it can be difficult to do when you're in a hurry or are already panicking over the loss of your car keys. Examine all pockets, bags, and the area around your vehicle.

Contact a locksmith if can't find your car keys. Locksmiths can usually create keys for your car quicker than a dealership. They can also do it for less than a dealership will cost.

Some dealerships can create replacement keys, but may not be able to do so immediately or at any time. They usually have a large number of customers therefore they might not be able to assist you right away. They may not also be able to create a exact copy of the existing key.

You can also buy a replacement key online. They are available on Amazon and other sites for much cheaper than the price you pay at a dealer, although they may not be able to cut or program them for your specific car model.

Certain insurance policies also cover the cost of replacing a lost or stolen car key. It's a good idea to check your insurance policy to determine if it will cover the cost of replacing a car key. Be aware that you'll need show proof of ownership to the person or business who is responsible for Lost car keys creating your replacement key. This is required by law. It can be extremely expensive if you're not able to provide proof of ownership.

2. Contact the Dealership

It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys was not an issue. You could easily get an alternative key from the dealership, and it didn't cost much to do so. However, as cars become more technologically advanced and keys becoming more expensive to replace lost car key - this isn't as easy as it was in the past. If you lose your keys today it's not uncommon to pay hundreds of dollars to have them replaced.

It is important to be calm in the event that you've lost your car keys. This will help you think clearly and make the right decision about how to solve the problem. It is also important to ensure that you have a backup set of keys in your pocket or in the trunk of your car so that if you do lose the original keys and you lose them, you won't lose any money at all. Check to see if your warranty or insurance covers the cost of replacing a key. This could help you save money in the event of a crisis.

Then, look in your car, your home and purse, or your wallet for keys that are missing. You could also retrace the steps you followed, and remember when you last held your keys and where you were at the time you lost them. This can help you figure out where they are, which is a huge relief.

After you've conducted an exhaustive search but are unable to locate your car keys, the next step is to call your dealership. Dealerships know the vehicle they are servicing and can provide you with a replacement key. They're usually busy and are not able to accommodate customers who have a short notice. This could make the process difficult.

If you are able to contact the dealership, they'll be able to make keys for you based on the VIN number that is stored on their system. They can also reprogram the immobilizer device that is required to start your vehicle. Locksmiths are a great option if you want a quick and reliable solution that doesn't require you to wait at the dealership.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

Not so long ago, misplacing your car keys was not a big deal. A locksmith could visit your home and duplicate your keys at an affordable cost. As cars have become more technologically advanced, keys are also becoming more expensive.

Depending on the type of vehicle and year the replacement of a lost key can be a long process and cost hundreds of dollars. It's always a good idea to have an extra set of car keys in your pocket. This is especially important when you live in an area of danger or a place with an abundance of theft.

While it may feel like an unnecessary effort to call your insurance company, doing so can save you money in the long run. Check with your agent to see whether you are able to get an alternative car key that is that is covered by your policy.

Another thing to take into consideration is whether your insurance policy provides roadside assistance. If it does, the company might send someone out to assist you in your circumstance which could be less stressful than dealing with a locksmith or dealership.

Before calling your insurance company, make sure to search thoroughly for your keys. If you believe they're in the car, check the trunk and under the seat. If you're at home check the pockets of the clothes you were wearing as well as in other places you might have a habit of placing them. You should also check the areas where you might have left them, like your purse or desk.

Contact your dealer for replacement of the keys once you've attempted to find them. This isn't a problem, and it's cheaper than calling a locksmith or going to the insurance company.

While you're at the dealer it is possible to ask whether you can have a spare key made, especially if you don't have a key fob. In most cases you can have your dealership make an extra key for you, without altering anything else in your vehicle. If you do this make sure to keep the key in a place that is safe and secure so that you can retrieve it in the event that you lose it.

4. Call the Police

Reporting lost car keys will help you locate them and keep you safe. If a person drives your car on public roads or on private property without permission, the person may be fined. If you report the keys missing prior to the person making off with your vehicle, you'll be aware that you have an official paper trail of when it was missing and who reported it.

The loss of car keys is a common problem, but it doesn't have to be a disaster. You can obtain a replacement car key quickly and easily if make contact with the right people. If you follow the tips in this article, you'll even be able to prevent future key misplacements!

First, try to retrace your steps. This will help you recall where you might have lost your key. For instance, if were returning home from work and then went to get food at an eatery, you might be able to remember that the keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you are unable to locate your key, it might be in the bag you used to carry things around or on the table at which you sat down to eat.

Another option is to post your key loss online. This will reach a large audience and increase your chances of finding it. You can also look up local businesses and bulletin boards in the community.

Before you begin looking for your keys, be sure to note down the VIN number of your vehicle. You'll need this information to replace your key, so it's important to keep it somewhere safe. It's common to find the VIN on your driver's license, but it can also be found on your insurance card or in the owner's manual of your vehicle.

Once you've exhausted all other options, it's time to call the police. You can get an interim replacement vehicle from the police, and they will also file a report which is useful should your keys ever be recovered.