12 Companies Leading The Way In Lost Car Key Replacement
How to Avoid Overpaying For Lost Car Key Replacement
It wasn't long ago that losing keys to your car was not a big issue. However, in recent years automobiles are more technologically advanced and replacing keys that have been lost can be a hassle and very expensive.
In the beginning, you must repeat your steps. Then take a thorough look through your pockets bags, purses, and other places where they may have been. Then, you can contact a locksmith.
Retract your steps
Verify that the engine is not running before you try to retract or extend your RV steps. It's possible that the electronic components in your steps are failing, and they're not responding to instructions from the ignition key to retract when the doors are shut. If this is the situation, simply flipping the switch to "auto" or "on", should solve the issue.
Examine the steps for any obstructions that could be stuck. Clean and grease the steps. After that you can listen to determine whether the sound originates from the gear or motor.
You can program some steps into your vehicle yourself. Consult the instructions that came along with your keys or the owner's manual for more information. Sometimes, the procedure involves closing and opening the doors, turning the lights and other electronics on and off, and pressing several buttons.
Call Your Insurance
It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys was not an issue. It could be a little annoying, but if you had a spare you were good to go. It's not as easy to locate your keys in modern cars. In this situation it's crucial to know what to do when it occurs.
If you have roadside assistance coverage, you can call your insurance company and they will send a locksmith to get you back in your car. The cost to do this will differ based on the kind of key your vehicle uses. Go through the owner's manual to find out how to reprogram new keys for your car. The key must be programmed to the vehicle's system and is usually done by opening and closing doors, turning lights and other electronics on or off, and pressing a number of buttons like a code.
Double-checking the obvious places to find your keys is a good idea. You might have put them in a pocket, purse or even in the trunk of your vehicle. Contact your dealer if you can't find them. The dealer can assist you to create a new key and even program it to your vehicle. To do this, they will require the original key and proof of ownership. The cost of a replacement key will vary from dealership to dealership.
The more high-tech and advanced your car's entry system is the more expensive the replacement key will cost. Older mechanical keys are generally the cheapest to replace as they're not as difficult to replace. If your car is a newer model with fob, smart key, or remote lock and unlock function, you'll most likely require an insurance claim to cover the cost of replacing it.
If you're not able to file a claim for car key replacement due to the policy or coverage, other insurance policies or warranties could be able to cover the cost. Note down your vehicle's identification number (VIN) to help locate someone who can help. You can usually find it on the driver's side dashboard or on the windshield and you may also be able to search for it in your owner's manual or the section on information about your vehicle in your insurance policy.
Visit the Dealership
Losing car keys is not only costly, but extremely frustrating. They can make your entire day go awry and leave you retracing your steps to determine if they fell into the crack that you didn't even notice. In these cases it is recommended to contact the dealer or manufacturer. They'll be able provide you with a new key quicker than any other service provider.
Depending on your model and the kind of key you have and the roadside assistance plan, dealerships may differ in the speed at which they can make a brand new key for you. Regardless, they'll have the most thorough understanding of your vehicle when it comes time to make the new key, and will be able to use genuine parts specifically designed for your specific vehicle.
If you have an older vehicle that has the traditional double-edged key, you can have an alternative made at any hardware store as long as you have the VIN or key code to reference. If you own an older model that has a key fob that locks your vehicle and starts it, only the dealer can make a replacement.
In order to obtain a replacement car key, you'll need to present a valid photo identification and the 17-digit VIN. You'll also have to provide proof of ownership. If you're unable to visit the dealer for whatever reason, your roadside assistance policy should pay for someone to come to your home and make an identical key for you. car key replacements could take a while and you'll need to pay for the replacement cost while waiting. It is essential to have an extra key in your possession in these scenarios.
Contact a Locksmith
It's not as simple as it was in the past, and it's much more costly. Depending on the make and model of your car, replacement keys can cost up to $500. However, there are options to avoid overpaying for your car key replacement. Calling a Brooklyn locksmith is the first step. You can then be confident that the job will get done right.
A locksmith can help you obtain your replacement key faster than a dealer, and they'll probably be able to do it more affordably. They'll also be able cut and program your new key on the spot, unlike a dealership who may need to purchase the key from the manufacturer.
Before you call, make sure you know the year, model and year of your vehicle. You'll also have to provide proof of ownership, like your registration or title. Be prepared with this information prior to losing your keys can save you time and money.
The most commonly used kind of car key is the classic metal key. This key fits into the ignition cylinder and then starts the engine. Most car locksmiths are able to replace this type of key but they'll need obtain a copy of your vehicle's key code from the manufacturer. Most modern vehicles have this code, however older keys may not.
Another type of car key is the remote control key fob, which opens your doors and also start your engine. They emit an electronic signal that is recognized by the car however they only work if they're in the range of the car. A specialist at a dealer or locksmith can repair this kind of key, but it is best to have an additional copy.
If you do not have a spare, the last resort is to make use of a Bluetooth tracker to locate the key you lost. These tiny devices typically cost just a few dollars and attach to your key ring. The device will send a notification to your phone when the key is in range so you can quickly locate it.