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How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Things are often lost in the rush of bringing children to and from school, running errands and working. One of the most frequently lost things that get lost is the car keys.

In the past, this was not an issue because you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. Nowadays, that is not as simple.

1. Contact Your Car Dealership

If you have lost your car key The first place you should call is your dealer. The majority of car dealers keep a record of each key made for their vehicles making it easy for them to locate your key. The disadvantage is that visiting the dealership can be costly, so it's important to look for a different one. You may be able get a lower price through a locksmith for cars.

You will most likely need to provide the dealership with your vehicle identification number, or VIN, and proof of ownership (such as a copy of your registration or title) to get an alternative key. The dealership will then order the replacement key and attach it with your vehicle. The dealer will need to complete this lengthy process.

Many cars today have the special kind of key called a smart key. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor inside the vehicle, allowing for keyless entry and starting. They are usually used with ignitions that require a push-to-start. You can buy a new smart key at the dealership, but the price is quite high. Local auto locksmiths can give you a smart lock at only a fraction of the cost.

You can also replace your key with a new one at the local hardware store. They can create a standard lock cylinder key. They'll need the year of manufacture of your vehicle and the VIN. If you are unable to locate the VIN on your car it will be stamped on a plaque made of metal that is located on the dashboard or doorpost. The majority of locksmiths for automotive will be able to offer an alternative car key even if you don't have the original. In some instances they might need to take apart the door and ignition in order to do this. It's not a risky job, but it does require some technical knowledge.

2. Contact an expert locksmith

Misplacing your car keys is among of the most common causes for roadside assistance and callouts. Keep a spare car key with you and store it safely. However even the most cautious people can lose their car keys. It is important to thoroughly search for the key and notify your insurance company as soon as possible in order to decrease the chance of being denied a claim in the event that it turns up stolen later.

If you don't have a spare key, the best option is to contact the locksmith. Locksmiths can usually provide a key replacement at less than what a dealership would cost. They can also visit your location to create keys right there which is easier than having your vehicle brought back to the dealer.

The kind of car key you are using can impact the cost to replace it. The most affordable keys are traditional keys that can be bought at many hardware stores. They cost about $10 per key. If your car has an ignition key fob that acts like a remote and can unlock and start the engine, or a smart-key, which can only be changed by an auto dealer the keys will typically cost more than a traditional key.

In the majority of instances, an auto locksmith can replace a key fob or smart key if they can get the VIN number for your car that is usually found on a metal plate on your driver's side doorpost or etched into the windshield of the car. They will also need evidence that you own the car by providing the registration or title.


It is essential to do your research before hiring a locksmith. You can locate reputable auto locksmiths by searching online or asking your family and friends for recommendations. Be replacing lost car key that using an unauthorized key to start your vehicle could cause a breach of warranty. The use of a key that is not authentic could damage the lock of your car. If you aren't willing to take this risk, it's a good idea to call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith and wait for a replacement key from the dealer.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

Panic is among the most negative reactions you can be experiencing when you lose your keys. The first thing you should do is take a deep breath and try to think about the situation. Most likely, you lost your keys because you lost them, instead of having them taken. The next step is to go back your steps and figure out the place they went missing. It may help to look around in places that you would not normally check like pockets on your pants or coat, or in a bag you carry when running. After you've inspected all these places, it's a good idea contact your insurance company.

Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate with chips with the car. This allows the car to recognize the key fob, and then open the doors, and also start the engine. It's important that you report the loss of your keys immediately to stop unauthorized persons from using your vehicle.

Some car insurance providers offer an add-on to their policies that will cover the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. Contact your insurance provider to find out if this type of insurance is offered or if an individual locksmith can pay for the costs.

You can usually get a replacement for a mechanical key in many hardware stores for a reasonable price. However, if your car has an electronic key fob, which is paired with your car through the chip, you'll need to go to your dealership to get the replacement. This can be costly however it's cheaper than hiring a locksmith.

Filing an insurance claim because of a stolen car key can increase your insurance rates. This is because your insurance company will consider you to be an extremely risky driver for the loss of your car key, and may raise your premiums to cover the cost of making a claims claim. Fortunately, you can avoid the extra expenses by purchasing a device to track your lost car keys or having a locksmith create an entirely new key without copying the original.

4. Call a tow truck

Nobody wants to lose their car keys. It is the worst scenario that could occur. If it does happen it could cost a lot to replace keys and get back on the road. It is important to be prepared so that you don't need to call a tow truck and save your money.

When you've lost your car keys, the very first thing to do is retrace your steps. This will help you determine where they are, and help you calm your anxiety. Make a list of the actions you took prior to losing your keys, such as grabbing something at the grocery store or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you to determine where you should start.

If you cannot find your keys, check places you might have put them, such as the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or the bag that you used to transport them to home. If you can't find them, take a moment to relax, and then call an locksmith or a tow truck.

Another alternative is to make use of a bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are tiny devices that you can connect to a keyring and an app on your smartphone will provide you with the whereabouts of your keys.

The cost of replacing the car key that has been lost can vary depending on what kind of key you have. If you own a traditional key an automotive locksmith will usually make a new one on the spot without the original, which can save you money. However, if you own an electronic key that relies on proximity sensors to open the door or start the engine, you'll need go to the dealer to purchase a new one.

You must have a plan for when you lose your keys. This will spare you the hassle of having to pay for a tow-truck or locksmith. It's easy for you to forget your car keys when you're exhausted after a long day or when your mind is distracted by other things. But by following these tips you can ensure that your keys won't vanish forever, and you have a backup plan in case the event that they do.

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