How to Get Lost Car Keys Replacing
You might feel like your day has changed for the worse if you lose your car keys. The following steps should be taken:
Take out your pockets and look through any bags you may be carrying. Then retrace your steps to locate your car keys.
1. Retract your Steps
It's not uncommon to lose your car keys. If you're running an run and forget to grab your keys on your way out, or are distracted when you get at home, loosing keys can be a hassle. The good news is that there are steps you can take to find your keys and get back on your way.
Retracing your steps is one of the first things you must do. This is essentially going back through your day in your head and thinking about where you've been and what you've accomplished. This can help you jiggle your memories and trigger a flash of memory that will bring you to your keys.
Don't rush through this process, as you may miss something important. It is also important to consider the places where your keys could be missing. For example, if you ran out of the house and forgot your keys, you may have left keys on the kitchen table or on the floor. It's important to search every corner of your house even if it's messy. For example, you might discover your car keys in a pile of mail or between the creases of your jacket.
Another option is to ask for help. If you share an individual or a roommate, ask them if they've seen your lost keys. This is a great way to get an additional pair of eyes to assist you find your keys.
If you aren't able to locate your keys after trying to find them you should contact a professional locksmith. A professional locksmith will help you locate your car keys and replace them quickly and safely. They can also provide spare keys for your car, which will save you from future headaches. Contact a local dealership or service company to learn more about the services that a locksmith can offer. They can provide you with tips on what to do in the event of losing a key, and can also provide a professional locksmith as soon as they can.
2. Contact a locksmith
It can be a bit frustrating to realize that keys are missing when you're running late to work, or preparing to go out with your friends. If you've checked everywhere you can think of, it could be time to contact a locksmith or a car dealership. It's not the end of the road however, and you'll be able to get your car back.
If you are looking for locksmiths to replace the keys to your car they will require your vehicle identification number (VIN) found on your dashboard or inside the door jambs. They will also require your spare key, as well as proof of ownership. These documents will help make the process go more easily.
The cost of a new key is contingent on the type of key you own and the car dealership. If you own a traditional key locksmiths will be able to make one right on the spot and is usually the cheapest option. If you have a smart-key that connects to the computer in your car it has to be programmed by the dealership. This is more expensive and not for everyone.
You can also have your lost keys replaced through roadside assistance, or by contact your insurance company. This can be more affordable and less stressful, however the service typically only last a few days and can leave you waiting around while your car is repaired or towed.
It doesn't matter who you call to help you locate your car keys. The best thing to do is remain calm. It is easy to get overwhelmed and this can lead to frustration and possibly even damage to your car's lock, or key fob further. Take a deep breath and try to recall where you might have put your keys. It's also recommended to ask friends or family members if they have seen them. This can be extremely helpful when you are in hurry and aren't sure where they might have gone.
3. Visit Your Dealership
In the past, misplacing or losing a car keys wasn't that big of a deal, as you could simply contact your local dealer and ask them to make a new one for you. As cars have sophisticated and so has the technology behind them. It's now more difficult (and expensive) to purchase a new key set.
If you have a traditional metal car key with a double edge that you have, then you should visit a locksmith to get an alternative (assuming it's still working). This kind of key doesn't use any electronic systems. However, if your car is an older model that does not have this kind of key, you might have to visit your local hardware store or dealer to have a new key made.
Another type of car key that is becoming more and more common is the transponder car key. This uses a special "password" to connect to and start your car, so you'll need to have the new key reprogrammed for it. It is possible to do this yourself, depending on the model and make of your vehicle. You should be able to locate the instructions in the owner's manual, or you can visit your local auto dealer for assistance.
You'll also have to pay for a new key, which can cost anywhere from $100 to $500 or more, dependent on the type of vehicle you drive and the technology. Check your insurance and warranty to see if these costs are covered.
It's important to report your lost car keys as soon as you realize they're missing. This can prevent other people from using your vehicle without your permission. If they do, they may end up damaging your doors and ignition, which can cost you a significant amount of money to repair.
In addition, reporting lost car keys immediately can protect you from any other problems that may occur. If you lose your keys when parking on public property, and someone else takes off the city could issue fines.
4. Contact Your Insurance Company
A few years ago the time when keys were lost in cars wasn't a big deal. You could get a new key cut at a hardware store for a few dollars, and you were off to the races. Today, however, cars have become much more advanced and it is more difficult to replace the key. The first step is to contact your insurance agent to find out what coverage, if any, you might be entitled to.
Many modern cars have electronic keys that are designed to work only with the vehicle they are connected to. To make a new one, the key from which it came must be present so that the transponder chip could be "paired" to it. Unless you have an extra, this will mean calling the dealership or a locksmith that is capable of working with your vehicle's unique programming.
The positive side is that a lot of these expenses are covered by your roadside assistance plan or warranty on your vehicle and should be the first step before worrying about lost keys. It is also advisable to contact the police department to ensure that if your keys are stolen, you can file a report and get them returned.
Consider purchasing a smart tag like Apple AirTag or tiles. Read the Full Document will help you locate your keys by triggering a warning on your phone. The cost is expensive however the security it offers can be worth it.
Before you get any work on your vehicle, consult your insurance agent. Depending on your policy, your key could be considered personal property and not something that should be covered under your home or auto insurance policies. Your agent can give you a definitive answer and will give you advice about how to proceed. Reporting your lost car keys can be an easy and quick procedure. This will stop anyone from taking your car keys. Notifying it as soon as you can reduces the chance of theft and damage.