Why Lost Car Keys Is The Next Big Obsession
How to Replace Lost Car Keys
The loss of car keys is a major headache. It was not an issue until the last few years however, as cars become more technologically advanced, it's becoming more difficult.
Often you lose your keys due to the fact that you've reached into your pockets for something else and have accidentally thrown them away somewhere. Having an extra key at home can save you from such situations.
1. Contact a locksmith
The loss of your car keys can be an extremely frustrating experience. There's no need to panic. If you know who to call and what to do it will only take just a few steps to have your car keys replaced.
Try to go back the steps you made. This may seem simple but it's hard to do if you are in a hurry or already concerned about losing your car keys. Make sure you check all your pockets, bags and the area around your vehicle.
If you've been unable to locate your car keys, you need to contact locksmith. Locksmiths can usually make keys for your car faster than the dealership. They can also do it for much cheaper than a dealership will cost.
Some dealerships are able to create replacement keys, but might not be able to do it immediately or at any time. They often have a very high volume of customers, therefore they might not be able to accommodate your request right away. They might not be able to make an exact copy of the existing key.
Another option is to purchase an online replacement for your car key. Keys can be purchased on Amazon and elsewhere at a lower cost than you'd purchase from an auto dealer. However, they might not be able to cut and program these keys for your specific car model.
Some insurance policies also provide coverage for the cost of replacing a lost or stolen car key. Therefore, it's worth checking to see if you have coverage that would help cover the cost of obtaining a new key for your car. Remember that you'll be required to provide proof of ownership and proof of identity to the individual or company who makes the replacement key. This is required by law. It could be expensive if you're not able to prove ownership.
2. Contact the Dealership
Not too long ago losing - or losing - your car keys was not a huge deal. It wasn't too expensive to buy a new key from a dealer. This is no longer the case as cars are more advanced and keys are more expensive. If you lose your keys today, it's not uncommon to pay hundreds of dollars to get them replaced.
You must be calm if you have lost your car keys. This will help you think clearly and make the right decision about how to solve the problem. Also, make sure that you have a backup set keys somewhere else, such as in your pocket or in the trunk of your car, in case you lose the originals, you won't be out any money at all. You should also check to see if the key replacement is covered by your warranty or car insurance and can help you save some money in a crisis.
The next step is to do a thorough search of your home, car, and your wallet or purse for keys that are missing. You can try to retrace your steps, remembering where you last had them and the location you were in when you lost them. This might assist you in determining where they went and could be a huge relief.
Call your dealership if you haven't found your keys after a thorough search. Dealerships are familiar with your vehicle and can give you keys to replace. They are often busy and can't accommodate people who have a short notice. This can cause the process to be difficult.
If you contact your dealership, they will be able to create keys for you based on the VIN number that is recorded on their system. They can also reprogram the immobilizer system which is needed to start your car. Locksmiths are a great option for those who want a fast, reliable solution without having to wait at the dealership.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
It wasn't that long ago that losing your keys to cars was not a problem. A locksmith could visit your home and duplicate your keys for an affordable price. But as cars have gotten more technologically advanced, so have the keys, and now they're more expensive to replace than they were before.
Depending on your vehicle type and year the replacement of a lost key can be a long process and cost hundreds of dollars. It's always a good idea to have an additional set of keys for your car in your pocket. This is particularly true when you live in an area of danger or a place with an extremely high rate of theft.
It may seem like a waste to contact your insurance company, but it can save you money over the course of time. Some policies will cover the cost of a new car key, so be sure to inquire with your insurance company before you lose a key and find yourself in need.
If your policy provides roadside assistance, you should consider this. If you have roadside assistance, someone could come to your aid. This is a less stressful option than dealing with a dealership or locksmith.
Before calling your insurance company, be sure to search thoroughly for your keys. If you believe they're in the car, search inside the trunk and beneath the seat. If you're at home, check the pockets of the clothes you were wearing and in other places you may have a habit of putting them. Make sure you check any places you might have left them. For example, your purse or a cluttered office.
Contact your dealer to replace the keys once you've attempted to find them. Most of the time, this won't be a problem, and it will be much cheaper than hiring a locksmith, or going through an insurance company.
While you're at the dealership you may want to ask whether you can have a spare key made, especially when you don't have a key fob. Most of the time the dealership will be able to make the spare key for you without changing anything else inside your vehicle. If you do this, make sure you keep the key in a safe and secure location so that you can locate it the next time you lose it.
4. Call the police
Reporting your lost car keys can help you locate the keys and keep you safe. If a person drives your car on public roads or on private property without permission, the person may be fined. If you report your keys lost before the person makes off with your vehicle, you'll be aware that you have an official paper trail of when it was missing and who reported it.
Losing car keys is a common problem however it doesn't have to be to be a disaster. You can get a replacement car key quickly and easily if you call the right people. If you follow the suggestions in this article, you'll be able to prevent any future key loss!
Retrace your steps. This will help you recall where you might have lost your keys. If you were driving to work and then stopped at a restaurant in order to purchase food You may recall that keys were in your pocket when you left the car. If you cannot find your keys, you may have put it in the bag that you carried around with things or on the table you ate at.
Another good idea is to share your primary loss online. This will increase the likelihood of finding the key by bringing it to a wider audience. You can also contact local businesses and other bulletin boards.
It's crucial to note down the VIN of your car before you start searching for your keys. You'll need this information to replace your key, so it's important to keep it safe. The VIN is usually found on your driver's license however, it can also be found on your insurance card and in the owner's manual of your vehicle.
Contact the police after you've exhausted all other options. You can get a temporary replacement car from the police department, and they'll also file reports that are useful in the event that your keys are found.