How to Replace a Lost Car Key
Car keys that are lost are a nightmare for anyone to deal with. There are ways to minimize the stress and costs related to this.
Check all possible places you might have placed them. If not, you'll need to contact someone. There are many alternatives to consider:
1. Contact Your Car Dealership
A car key is a small piece of steel that allows you to open and shut your vehicle. It's not uncommon to lose your car key. The good news is that it's easy to replace. This guide will teach you how to swiftly and easily replace a standard car key or an electronic key.
A lot of newer vehicles come with keys that are designed to be "smart." This means they're equipped with an electronic chip that is programmed to work with a specific vehicle. You'll have to visit the dealership where you bought your car to get an additional key if you have the "smart" key. The dealer must match the car's key with the key, so it's likely that you'll need to wait a few days before you're allowed to drive again.
If you're lucky that your dealer has the key in their inventory and be able to hook it with your vehicle immediately. The dealer might charge a fee to perform this service. Alternately, you can go to an locksmith who will replace the car key at an affordable price.
Check to see whether you have spare keys before you contact a dealer or locksmith. Store them in a location in which you're not likely to lose keys. Also, consider looking for an used or second-hand replacement key on the internet. These keys are usually cheaper than buying a new key from the manufacturer.
It's not as bad a situation as people think. It's also not as costly as many people believe. You'll be back in the car in a flash if you know who to call, where to find a replacement and how to prevent future loss. To avoid losing your keys, a good plan is to set up the location for them and always put them there after you've used them. This will become a habit and make it easier to locate your keys should you lose them.
2. Contact Your Insurance Company
The loss of your car keys can be an incredibly frightening experience for anyone, no matter how careful you are. It's one of the top three most misplaced items people lose, and it can send a person into an anxiety and a chaotic search to try to find their car keys again. However, this isn't always an unsolved issue, and there are numerous ways to have your car key replacement insured by insurance or other sources.
You can either try to locate your key by yourself or ask for help from the dealership or your vehicle manufacturer, based on the situation. Some car dealers are able to create a new key to cars on their lot, however, it's generally more expensive than working with a locksmith. You might also be able to take advantage of roadside assistance for your car to pay the cost of a replacement key, dependent on the kind of vehicle and the insurance policy you have.
Be sure to look through your car and home thoroughly for keys prior to you call your insurance. This will help you narrow down the area and give you a place to start looking. Check all pockets, under the seat, and in other areas. It's recommended to double-check your purse backpack, or wallet to make sure keys are present. You can get your spare key cloned at an auto dealer's or locksmith's shop to make a brand new key, without needing to alter anything inside the vehicle.
If you're still not able to locate your keys after an exhaustive search, it could be time to call the police and report the missing car keys. The police can create a lost and discovered report on your behalf and could be able to locate the key or let you know if it has been turned in. This is a great way to protect your vehicle from being stolen. Don't forget to check your phone for notifications about lost and found from apps like Find My iPhone or iCloud. You can also use GPS tracking apps to locate your car if it's been surrendered.
3. Contact the manufacturer of Your Vehicle
It's extremely frustrating to lose your car keys, because it is usually impossible to open or drive your vehicle without it. Don't panic it happens to every person. There are a few simple solutions to solve the issue.
If your vehicle was manufactured prior to 1981, you can generally find a standard replacement at a locksmith, or in some hardware stores. These keys are mechanical and don't require additional technology such as chips or transponders. If you own an advanced or high-tech key, it's likely to require replacement at the dealership or by an experienced locksmith. It could take longer, and you'll have to prove ownership in order to receive the key.
Many of the latest vehicles are now equipped with remote keys which is also known as a "fob." These keys are much more advanced than traditional metal keys and require an appropriate fob reader in order to operate the vehicle. They are difficult to replace and can cost anywhere from $50 to $500. It is recommended to always have a spare.
The easiest way to replace your car keys that have been lost is to contact the dealer or an auto locksmith. They will be able to create a new key for you, and will most likely be in a position to program your vehicle, allowing it to open and close by pressing a button. This is not always possible when the original key is not available to program with.
When you have lost your car keys, try to retrace your steps as best you can. This will help you determine where they might have gone if they're not already located and will save you the time of having to search through your entire house or vehicle to find them again in the future. You can also invest in a Bluetooth tracker that you can keep on your keychain. This will allow you to find your keys using 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 basic steps you can follow to get rid of this issue.
First first, don't get stressed! G28 Car Keys can be terrifying and stressful to lose your car keys, however you should remain at peace and think about what you can do. Retrace your steps. Where did you last have them? This is a crucial aspect to aid in narrowing your search. Then, look in your pockets and other hiding places you may have used. Also, you should be sure to check behind the passenger and driver seats, and between them. Don't forget to check your purse or backpack if you think you might have left them there!
Call a locksmith in case you are unable to locate your car keys. Locksmiths can design an entirely new car key and take out the old chip. This can be a much more cost-effective option than going back to the dealership, who will likely charge a fee for their service.
You can also search on the internet for replacement keys and key fobs for sale at a discount. Based on the type of key you have you may be able to buy an aftermarket model for less than it costs to purchase a new key from the manufacturer. Be aware that you'll need someone who can cut and program the key prior to it being able to be able to work on your car, so be sure to look for a suitable alternative.
If you don't have a spare key for your vehicle It is a good idea to invest in one. If you own a manual vehicle, this can be easily done by any locksmith who will create a new key right on the on the spot. If you own a key fob, smart key or other keys that are technologically advanced, you will have to contact your dealer to get a replacement.