How to Replace Lost Car Keys

It's an absolute nightmare to lose your car keys. This was not an issue until recently, but as cars become more technologically advanced, it is becoming more difficult.

Often you lose your keys because you've reached into your pocket to find something else and have accidentally thrown them away somewhere. You can prevent this from happening by keeping an extra key at home.

1. Contact a locksmith

There's no doubt that losing your car keys can be a huge hassle. However, there's no need to panic. If you know what to do and who to contact to get your car keys changed should be a matter of a few steps.

It is recommended to try retracing the steps you took. This may seem like a simple task but it can be difficult when you're in a rush or are already panicking over the loss of keys to your car. Check all your pockets, bags and the space around your vehicle.

If you haven't been able to find your car keys, how to replace lost car keys it's time to call a locksmith. Locksmiths are usually in a position to make keys for your vehicle much faster than the dealership. Additionally, they are able to do it for a lot cheaper than the dealership will charge you.

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

Another option is to purchase an online replacement for your car key. These keys can be found on Amazon and elsewhere for a much lower price than what you would pay a dealer. However, they may 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 stolen or lost car key lost car. It's worth checking your insurance policy to determine whether it will cover the cost of a new car key. Just remember that you will be required to provide proof of ownership and How to Replace Lost Car Keys identification to the individual or company who makes the replacement key. This is required by law. If you're not able prove ownership, it can be quite costly.

2. Call the Dealership

It wasn't long ago that losing keys to your car was not an issue. It was not expensive to purchase a new key from the dealer. This is no longer the case, because cars are more modern and keys are more expensive. If you have lost your keys today, it's not unusual to spend several hundred dollars to have them replaced.

If you've lost your car keys the first thing you should do is act calmly. This will allow you to think clearly and make an informed decision. 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 original keys, you won't be out any money. Make sure to check if your warranty or insurance covers the cost of a key replacement. This could help you save money in an emergency.

The next step is to do a thorough search of your car, home and your purse or wallet for keys that have gone missing. You can also try to retrace your steps, remembering where you last saw them and the location you were in when you lost them. This will help you figure out where they are, which is a great relief.

Call your dealership if you aren't able to locate your keys after an exhaustive search. Dealerships know your vehicle and can provide you with a replacement key. They are often busy and are not able to accommodate customers with short notice. This can make the process frustrating.

If you are able to get a hold of your dealership they'll be able to create an entirely new key for you using the VIN number that is on the file. They can also reprogram the immobilizer system that is required to start your vehicle. If you're looking for a fast, reliable solution that doesn't require waiting at the dealership, a locksmith could be the best option.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

It wasn't too long ago that losing keys to cars was not a major issue. A locksmith could come to your home and duplicate your keys for an affordable cost. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced, keys are also becoming more expensive.

Depending on the type of vehicle and year the process of replacing keys for a car that have been lost can take a few steps and can cost you hundreds of dollars. This is why it's a good idea to have an extra set of keys on hand, especially if you live in a dangerous neighborhood or an area where theft is commonplace.

While it might seem like an unnecessary effort to contact your insurance company, calling them could save you money in the long run. Some policies will cover the cost of a new car key, so be sure to speak with your insurance provider before you lose a key and find yourself in need.

Another thing to think about is whether your insurance policy provides roadside assistance. If you have roadside assistance, a person may come to your aid. This is a less stressful option than dealing with a dealer or locksmith.

Before you call your insurance company, be sure to thoroughly search for your keys. If you think they're in the car, look inside the trunk and beneath the seat. If you're at home, check the pockets of the clothes you were wearing as well as in other places where 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 desk that is cluttered.

Once you've done your best to locate the car keys It's an excellent idea to call your dealership to have them replaced. Usually it won't be a problem, and it is much less expensive than hiring a locksmith or working through the insurance company.

Ask the dealer to make a spare key for you, specifically when your car doesn't come with a remote. In most cases, your dealership can clone a spare for you without altering anything else in your car. If you do this, make sure you keep the spare key in a safe and secure place so that you can find it next time you lose yours.

4. Call the police

Reporting your lost car keys will help you locate them and keep you safe. If someone steals your vehicle without permission, they may be fined if they drive it on public roads or private property. If you report your keys lost prior to the person making off with your vehicle, you'll know that there's a legal paper trace of when it went missing and who reported it.

The loss of car keys is a common occurrence but it doesn't need to be a catastrophe. You can replace your car key quickly and easily if contact the right people. You can even prevent any future key loss if you follow the tips provided in this article.

Then, try retracing your steps. This will help you to recall where you might have lost your key. For instance, if were returning home from work and then went to eat at a restaurant, you might be able to remember that keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you are unable to locate the key, it may be in the bag you used to carry things around or on the table where you sat down for dinner.

Posting your key online is a great idea. This will reach a wide audience and increase your chances of finding it. You can also check with local businesses and other bulletin boards.

Before you begin searching for your keys, you need to note down the VIN number of your vehicle. This information is required to replace your keys, so you must keep it secure. The VIN is typically located on your driver's license, but it's also on your insurance card or in the owner's manual of your vehicle.

Contact the police after you've exhausted all other options. They'll be in a position to provide you with an interim replacement for your vehicle, and they can also file a report that will help if the keys are ever found.