How To Know If You're In The Right Place For Lost Car Keys

How to Replace Lost Car Keys

It's an absolute nightmare to lose car keys. Not long ago this was not a big deal but it's getting more complicated as cars get technologically advanced.

Often you lose your keys because you've reached into your pockets for something else, and then accidentally knocked them off somewhere. You can prevent this from happening by keeping an extra key at home.

1. Call a Locksmith

There's no denying that losing your car keys can be a huge hassle. But, there's no need to be in a panic. If you know what to do and who to call to get your car keys replaced should be a matter of a few steps.

Try to go back the steps you made. This might sound like a straightforward step but it can be difficult to do when you're in a hurry or are already worried about the loss of your car keys. Examine all pockets, bags and the area around your vehicle.

If you're unable to find your car keys, it's time to call an locksmith. Locksmiths can usually make a key for your car much faster than the dealership. In addition, they will usually complete the task for much cheaper than the dealership will charge you.

Some dealerships are able to create keys for cars that are replacements but they might not be able do it for you immediately or at all. They usually have a large number of customers therefore they might not be able to accommodate you right away. They may not also be able to make an 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 you'd buy from a dealer, however, they might not be able to cut and program them for your specific model of car.

Certain insurance policies cover the cost to replace the vehicle's lost or stolen key. So, it's always worthwhile to check if you have coverage that will cover the cost of obtaining the new key for your car. Just remember that you will be required to provide proof of ownership and proof of identity to the person or company who is responsible for the creation of the replacement key. This is required by law. It can be very costly if you are unable to prove ownership.

2. Contact the Dealership

It wasn't long ago that misplacing or losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. It wasn't expensive to get an alternative key from a dealer. However, this is not the case anymore, as cars are more advanced and keys are more expensive. It's not uncommon to shell out hundreds of dollars for a brand new set of keys when you lose them.

It is important to be calm when you've lost your car keys. This will allow you to think clearly and make the best decision about how to solve the issue. You should also make sure that you have a backup set keys in your pocket or the trunk of your car in case you lose the originals they won't cost you any money at all. Also, see if the key replacement is covered by your warranty or insurance for your car which could help you save some money in a crisis.

The next step is to conduct thorough searches of your car, home and your wallet or purse for keys that have gone missing. You can also retrace the steps you took, recollecting when you last had your keys and keys lost where you were at the time you lost them. This might assist you in determining where they ended up, which can be an enormous relief.

If you've completed a thorough search and can't find your car keys, the next step is to contact your dealership. Dealerships are familiar with your specific vehicle, so they're the best option to get a replacement key. They're usually busy and cannot accommodate people who have a short notice. This can cause the process to be difficult.

If you can contact your dealer, they will be able create a key for you using the VIN number that is stored on their system. They can also reprogram your immobilizer system which is required to start your vehicle. Locksmiths are a great option for those who want a fast and reliable solution that doesn't require you to wait in the dealership.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

Not so long ago the time when you lost your car keys wasn't an issue. You could contact an locksmith to come to your place of residence and duplicate your keys at a reasonable cost. However, as cars have become more technologically advanced, so have keys, and they're now more expensive to replace than ever.

Depending on the type of vehicle and year, replacing a lost key can be a lengthy process that can cost hundreds of dollars. It's a good idea to have an additional set of keys on your side, especially if you reside in a dangerous area or an area where theft is commonplace.

It may seem like a waste to call your insurance provider however it could save you money over the course of time. Check with your agent to see if you can get a replacement car key that is covered by your policy.

If your policy covers roadside assistance, you should take into consideration this. If it does, the insurance company could send someone out to help you with your situation, and that might be less stressful than dealing with a dealership or locksmith.

Make sure you thoroughly search your car before you call your insurance provider. If you believe they're in the car, look under the trunk and under the seat. Check the pockets of your clothes as well as other places where you may have been used to putting them. Double-check any places you may have left them. For instance, in your purse or in a messy office.

Once you've done your best to locate the car keys it's an excellent idea to call your dealership to have them replaced. Most of the time this shouldn't be a problem and will cost of replacing lost car keys less than hiring a locksmith or going through the insurance company.

Ask the dealer to make an extra key for you, especially when your car doesn't come with a remote. The dealership will usually be able to duplicate an additional key for you without having to alter any other part of your car. If you choose to do this, be sure you keep the key in a safe and secure place so that you can locate it the next time you lose it.

4. Call the Police

Not only does the act of reporting your lost car keys to police help you find them however, it can also help protect you from thieves. If someone takes your vehicle without permission, they may be fined if they drive it on streets in the city or private property. If you report your keys lost before the person makes off with your car, you'll know that you have an official paper trail of when it was missing and who reported it.

Car keys are lost is a common occurrence however it doesn't have to be to be a major issue. If you contact the right people, you'll be able to get the replacement key fast and quickly. If you follow the suggestions in this article, you'll be able to prevent the possibility of losing your key again!

Try to trace your steps. This will help you recall where you might have lost your keys. For example, if you were driving home from work, and then went to get food at a restaurant, you might be able to remember that keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you can't find the key, it may 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 share your primary loss online. This will reach a wide audience and keys lost increase your chances of finding it. You can also contact local businesses and other community bulletin boards.

It is essential to write down the VIN of your vehicle before you start searching for your keys. This information is needed to replace your keys, therefore you should keep it in a safe place. The VIN is typically found on your driver's license however, it can also be found on your insurance card or in the owner's manual of your vehicle.

Call the police once you've exhausted all other options. You can request an interim replacement vehicle from the police, and they'll also submit a report which is useful if your keys are ever recovered.