How Lost Car Keys Changed My Life For The Better
How to Replace Lost Car Keys
The loss of car keys is a major headache. It wasn't that long ago, this wasn't a huge problem, but it's now becoming more complicated as cars get technologically advanced.
Most of the time, you lose your keys because you've reached into your pocket for something else, and then accidentally dropped them off somewhere. You can avoid this by keeping a spare key in your home.
1. Contact a locksmith
The loss of your car keys can be an extremely frustrating experience. However, there's no need to panic. As Learn Alot more as you know who to contact and how to act, it should only take a few steps to get your car keys replaced.
You should try to retrace the steps you did. It might appear obvious however it can be difficult to accomplish if you are in a rush or worried about losing your car keys. Be sure to inspect all of your pockets and bags in which you may have put them down, as well as the area around your car.
Contact a locksmith if are unable to locate your car keys. Locksmiths are typically able to create keys for your vehicle much faster than a dealership. They can even do it for cheaper than a dealership will charge.
Some dealerships can create keys for replacement to cars, but they may not be able to do it for you immediately or at all. There are many dealerships that receive an abundance of customers and therefore may not be able to accommodate you immediately. In addition, they might not be able create an exact duplicate of your key.
You can also purchase a replacement key online. They are available on Amazon and other places at a much lower cost than what you'd buy from a dealer, however, they might not be able to cut and program them to your specific car model.
Certain insurance policies also cover the cost of replacing a lost or stolen car key. It's worth checking to see whether you have insurance which will help pay for the cost of getting an additional key for your vehicle. Remember that you'll be required to provide proof of ownership and identification to the individual or company who makes the replacement key. This is required by law. It can be extremely costly if you are unable to prove ownership.
2. Call the Dealership
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big deal. You could easily find an alternative key from a dealership, and it didn't cost too much to do so. However, this is not the case anymore, since cars are more sophisticated and keys are more expensive. It's not uncommon to pay hundreds of dollars for a new set of keys in the event that you lose them today.
If you've lost your car keys, the first thing you should do is to act in a calm manner. This will help you think clearly and make the right decision on how to fix the issue. If you have lost your original keys, you should have a spare set of keys in your purse or in your car trunk. This will ensure that you're not in financial trouble. 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 an emergency.
The next step is to do a thorough search of your car, home, and your wallet or purse for keys that are missing. You can also retrace the steps you followed, and remember when you last had your keys and where you were when you lost them. This might assist you in determining the location they went to and could be a huge relief.
Once you've done a thorough search and can't locate your car keys, the next step is to call your dealership. Dealerships are familiar with your particular vehicle, which is why they're the best option to get a replacement key. They're often busy and cannot accommodate people with short notice. This can cause the process to be difficult.
If you're able to get a hold of your dealership they'll be able create a new key for you based on the VIN number that is on the file. lost key to car can also reprogram the immobilizer system which is needed to start your vehicle. If you're looking for an immediate, reliable solution that doesn't involve waiting at the dealership, a locksmith might be the best option.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Not so long ago, misplacing your car keys was not a big deal. A locksmith could come to your home and duplicate your keys at a reasonable price. As cars have become technologically advanced, keys have also become more expensive.
Depending on the type of vehicle and year the replacement of a lost key can be a lengthy process and cost hundreds of dollars. It's always a smart idea to keep an additional set of keys for your car in your possession. This is especially true in the case of an area that is prone to danger or an area that has an abundance of theft.
While it may feel like it's a waste of time to contact your insurance company, doing so will save you money in the end. Contact your agent to determine whether you can obtain 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 insurance company might send a person out to assist you with your situation which could be less stressful than dealing with a locksmith or a dealership.
Be sure to thoroughly inspect your car prior to you call your insurance company. If you think they're in the car, check the trunk and under the seat. Examine the pockets of your clothes and other places where you may have been used to putting them. You should also check the places where you may have put them, such as your purse or a cluttered desk.
After you've tried to locate your keys to your car, it's an excellent idea to call your dealer to get them replaced. Usually this shouldn't be a problem and is much less expensive than hiring a locksmith or working through an insurance company.
When you visit the dealership it is possible to ask about having a spare key made, especially if you don't have an actual key fob. Usually the dealership will be able to make the spare key for you without changing anything else inside your vehicle. If you choose to do this, be sure you keep the spare key in a secure and safe location so that you can find it when you lose it.
4. Contact the police
Reporting lost car keys will help you locate them and ensure your safety. If someone drives your vehicle on public streets or on private property without permission, the driver could be charged with a fine. If you report the keys missing before the person gets away with your vehicle, you'll be aware that you have an official paper trail of when the car went missing and who reported it.
It's not uncommon to lose your car keys, but it doesn't have to be a major issue. You can obtain a replacement car key quickly and easily if you contact the right people. If you follow the guidelines in this article, you'll be able to avoid future key misplacements!
Retrace your steps. This will give you an idea of where your key could have gone missing and will aid in remembering what you were doing at the time. For example, if you were driving home from work, and then went to eat at an eatery, you might be able to recall keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you're unable to locate the key, it may be in the bag you carried things around or on the table at which you sat down for dinner.
Posting your key online is a good idea. This will increase the likelihood of locating the key by reaching a larger audience. You can also check local businesses and bulletin boards for community groups.
Before you begin looking for your keys, it's important to note down the VIN number of your vehicle. This information is required to replace your keys, so you should keep it in a safe place. The VIN is usually found on your driver's license, however, it can also be found on your insurance card as well as in your car's owner's manual.
Contact the police when you've exhausted your other options. They'll be in a position to provide you with temporary replacements for your car, and they can also make a report that could come in handy in the event that keys are discovered.