A How-To Guide For Lost Car Keys From Start To Finish

How to Replace Lost Car Keys

It's an absolute nightmare to lose car keys. lost car key replacement wasn't that long ago, this wasn't a huge issue, but it's becoming more complicated as cars get technologically advanced.


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

1. Call a Locksmith

Losing your car keys is an enormous inconvenience. But, there's no need to panic. As long as you know who to call and how to act you should only need to take just a few steps to have your car keys replaced.

It is recommended to try retracing the steps you took. This might sound like an obvious step however it isn't easy to do when you're in a hurry or you're already worried about the loss of keys to your car. Make sure to check all of your bags and pockets in which you've put them down, and also the surrounding area around your vehicle.

If you've been unable to locate your car keys, you need to call an locksmith. Locksmiths are typically able to create keys for your vehicle much quicker than a dealership. They can also do it for less than a dealership would cost.

Some dealerships are able to create replacement car keys as well but they might not be able do it for you in a hurry or even at all. There are many dealerships with many customers which means they may not be able to accommodate your request immediately. In addition, they might not be able create an exact copy of your key.

You can also buy a replacement key online. They are available on Amazon and other websites for a lot less than what you would buy from a dealer, but they may not be able to cut and program them for your specific car model.

Some insurance policies also provide coverage for the cost of replacing a stolen or lost car key. It's worth checking your insurance policy to determine if it will cover the cost of a new car key. Be aware that you'll need provide proof of ownership to the person or company who is responsible for creating the replacement key. This is required by law. If you're not able to provide proof of ownership, it can be very costly.

2. Call the Dealership

A few years ago the possibility of misplacing or losing - your car keys was not an issue. It wasn't too expensive to buy a new key from the dealer. However, with cars becoming more advanced in technology and keys becoming more expensive to replace it's not as simple as it used to be. It's not unusual to pay several hundred dollars for a brand new set of keys when you lose them.

It is important to be calm in the event that you've lost your car keys. This will allow you to think clearly and make the right decision on how to fix the problem. If you have lost your original keys, you should have an extra set of keys in your pocket or in your car trunk. This will ensure that you are not in a financial bind. Find out whether your insurance or warranty covers the cost of replacing a key. This can help you save money in an emergency.

Next, search your car, your home and purse, or your wallet for missing keys. You may try to trace your steps, remembering where you last had keys and the location you were in when you lost them. This might assist you in determining the location they went to, which can be an immense relief.

After you've conducted an exhaustive search but can't locate your car keys, the next option is to contact your dealer. Dealerships are knowledgeable about your particular vehicle, which is why they're the best option for a replacement key. However, they're usually full and cannot accommodate people at short notice, which could make the process difficult.

If you are able to contact your dealer they'll be able to create an original key for you based on the VIN number that is on the file. They can also modify the immobilizer system that is required to start your vehicle. If you're looking for an efficient, quick solution that doesn't involve waiting at the dealership, a locksmith could be a better choice.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing keys to cars was not a problem. A locksmith could visit your home and duplicate your keys at an affordable cost. However, as cars have become more technologically advanced, so too have the keys, and they're now more expensive to replace than ever before.

Depending on your vehicle type and year, replacing a lost key can be a lengthy procedure that could cost hundreds of dollars. It's always a smart idea to have an extra set of car keys in your possession. This is especially important in the case of an area of danger or an area that has an extremely high rate of theft.

It might seem like a waste of time to call your insurer but it can actually save you money over the course of time. Talk to your agent to see whether you are able to get an alternative car key that is covered by your policy.

Another thing to think about is whether your insurance policy provides roadside assistance. If it does, the company could send someone out to help you out of 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 provider. If you think they're in your car, look in the trunk and under the seat. If you're at home, check the pockets of the clothes you were wearing as well as in other places you may be prone to putting them. 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 dealer to have them replaced. Usually this shouldn't be a problem and will cost less than hiring a locksmith, or going through the insurance company.

Ask the dealer to create an extra key for you, specifically in the event that your car doesn't have a remote. Your dealership can usually clone an extra key for you, without having to alter anything else in your car. If you do this, make sure you keep the key in a secure and safe location so that you can find it next time you lose yours.

4. Call the Police

Not only can the act of reporting lost car keys to the police help you find keys however, it can also help keep you safe from thieves. If someone drives your car on public roads or private property without permission, the driver may be fined. You can safeguard yourself by reporting keys stolen before someone steals your car. This leaves a trace on paper that reveals who and when they reported the theft.

It's common to lose your car keys, however it doesn't need to be a disaster. You can obtain a replacement car key quickly and easily if call the right people. If you follow the guidelines in this article, you'll even be able to avoid future key misplacements!

Follow your steps. This will help you to recall where you might have lost your key. If you were driving to work, then went to a restaurant to purchase food and drinks, you might remember that your keys were in your pockets when you left the car. If you're 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.

Another good idea is to post your key loss online. This increases the chances of locating the key by reaching a larger audience. You can also search local businesses and bulletin boards for community groups.

Before you start looking for your keys, be sure to note down the VIN number of your vehicle. This information is required to replace your keys, which is why you should keep it safe. You can usually find the VIN on your driver's licence, but it can also be found on your insurance card or in the owner's manual of your car.

If you've exhausted all other options and have exhausted all other options, it's time to contact the police. You can get an interim replacement vehicle from the police, and they'll also submit reports that are useful in the event that your keys are recovered.

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Pub: 13 Jan 2024 08:11 UTC

Views: 33