14 Cartoons About Lost Key Replacement Car To Brighten Your Day

How to Get a Replacement Car Key

Losing your car keys can be a frustrating experience. It can also be costly depending on the kind of key you have.

Contacting an auto locksmith is the easiest way to replace keys. This is typically less expensive and quicker than calling an auto dealership or roadside assistance.

Cost

In the past, losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could simply go to the local hardware store and get a new key. Fortunately, today, the process is much more complex and expensive. The reason is that cars are becoming more technologically advanced, and that means their keys are too. This may make them more secure against theft, it also means they are more expensive to replace.

The cost of replacing keys for a car that have been lost will differ based on the model, year and make of your vehicle. Many modern cars come with keys that include transponder chips to prevent theft. These chips need to be paired with your vehicle, which typically requires a locksmith or dealership. The cost of this service will depend on the kind of vehicle you own, but can be up to $200.

Additionally, certain modern vehicles use laser-cut keys that need to be programmed using a specific machine. This is only available through dealerships or auto locksmiths who specialize in this. The cost of the key for this kind of lock is as high as $100.

The location of your home will also affect the cost. If you're located in a remote area it is likely that you will have to pay extra for the service since the tow truck or locksmith must travel a long distance reach you. Additionally, a locksmith may charge extra for holidays or after hours weekend work.

The best way to cut down on the cost of a lost key is to keep a spare one with you and keep it at home or kept in your wallet. Keep your car's title or registration papers on you. These will be required to prove ownership if you need to contact a dealership for a new key. You can also contact your roadside assistance service. You might be able to obtain temporary replacements based on the conditions and terms of your roadside assistance service.

Time

It can be frustrating to lose your car keys, however it's important to not be anxious. Take a moment to search for your keys to your car in a convenient place like your pocket or purse. You can then go back and recall your day to see where you might have lost them. This may help you remember where you lost the keys, or even you can find them in your car key replacement service. If you're not able to locate your car keys, it could be time to purchase new keys.

The majority of modern cars come with a remote key fob that utilizes the code to unlock and start the car. This type of key needs to be reprogrammed to work with the specific vehicle you own, and this is usually a job that requires an expert. You should consult an auto locksmith to find out whether they can take care of this, reprogrammed and you will be required to provide evidence of ownership.

The old-fashioned metal keys are easier to replace than the remote key fobs. They are 100% mechanical and easy to duplicate. A locksmith in your neighborhood can replace your lost key on instantaneously. The locksmith can also duplicate your ignition cylinder, however, this comes at a cost. If you're looking to make copies of your old car keys, go to a hardware shop that specializes in automobiles and make them quickly and inexpensively.

You should also consider replacing your car keys if they're beginning to appear worn. The teeth on the key and the lock cylinder can be worn down by the use of the keys over time which makes it difficult for them to align correctly with each other. If the key begins to become stuck, it could be time to replace it.

The dealer might need to program the key if you own a newer model or a high-end car. This is a complex job that can be expensive and take a long amount of time to complete. Based on the model of your car you might be able to have the work covered by your warranty or car insurance.

The availability

Even if you drive good, you could still lose your keys. This can be a real hassle particularly if it happens at an inconvenient moment such as when you're at the supermarket or a gas station and you want to get back home. There are several options to replace keys that have been lost. You can find a locksmith, call roadside assistance, or call your insurance provider.

The first thing you'll have to do is determine what kind of car key you have. It is important to understand that different cars have different keys. Some are old-fashioned and lock through the key cylinder and reprogrammed others come with an electronic chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock the doors and start it up. Some of these keys are easily replaced by an auto-locksmith while others might require you to visit a dealership to purchase one from the manufacturer.

It is recommended to first read the guide, or call the dealer for instructions on how to program the key for your vehicle. You'll need proof that you own the vehicle and wait several additional days for the dealer to request the replacement. This procedure could also require you to bring the vehicle to a locksmith or another service provider to be programmed, so this isn't the best option for those working on tight schedules or have limited mobility.

The process is a lot easier in the event that you have an extra. You can typically purchase keys online at a reasonable cost dependent on the type of car. If your keys have a transponder as well as a key fob, then you'll require a certified expert in order to program and replace them. Based on the make and model, you may need to have it tow at the dealer, or hire a locksmith to replace the key.

Another way to get an updated car key is by using a bluetooth tracker. These small devices attach on your keyring, and emit the signature, which can be retrieved using any mobile phone with an application installed. The app will show you the location of your key, so you can easily locate it.

Insurance

The majority of the time insurance for cars doesn't cover keys that are lost. However, there are a few exceptions. Some of the top car insurance companies committed to customer satisfaction offer additional coverage for things like lost keys. It's typically an extra fee, but can be less expensive than paying out from pocket for the cost of replacing keys.

The specific policy and the amount of the deductible will determine if your insurance policy covers keys lost. Metal keys are generally easy to replace, but if you have an electronic fob or smart key, it can be more difficult. These keys are laser-cut and utilize chips that transmit a signal to the vehicle, so they are much more complicated to replace than traditional mechanical keys. In addition, these kinds of keys are more expensive because you'll likely need to pay for an locksmith and the cost of a new key.

Consider using an auto club service or roadside assistance to save money when replacing a lost key. These services can offer locksmiths discounted rates and even reimburse the cost of the new key. Some of these companies provide emergency lockout assistance which is helpful for those who are in a hurry and need to travel.

You can also contact your dealership to see if it can help. Locksmiths are typically available at most dealerships, and they may be able to make keys at a reasonable price. If the dealer needs to purchase a new key for the model you have it could take a few days. Keep all receipts and other documents, whichever method you choose. This will enable you to file a claim with your insurance company.

Losing your car keys is a frequent event. It's not easy however, it can happen to anyone. Fortunately, there are strategies to help you avoid the costly consequences. While the cheapest and fastest method of replacing your lost car keys is to call an authorized locksmith in your area, it's important to weigh the financial advantages against the time and any possible deductible payment prior to making a claim to your insurance company.