15 Shocking Facts About Lost Car Keys That You Didn't Know
How to Replace Lost Car Keys
Losing car keys is a nightmare. Not long ago it wasn't a big issue, but it's becoming more complicated as cars become technologically advanced.
You can lose your keys when you accidentally knock them off the table while reaching into your pockets to get something else. Having an extra key at home will help you avoid these situations.
1. Call for a locksmith
There's no doubt that losing your car keys can be a major hassle. There's no reason to be in a panic. If you know what to do and who to contact, getting your car keys replaced will just take a couple of steps.
One of the first things you have to do is try and go back to where you started. This might sound like a straightforward step, but sometimes it can be difficult when you're in a hurry or you're already worried about the loss of your car keys. Make sure to check all your pockets and bags where you might have set them down, as well as the surrounding area around your vehicle.
Call a locksmith if you can't find your car keys. Locksmiths are able to create keys for your vehicle much faster than the dealership. They can even do it for less than a dealership would cost.
Some dealerships can make replacement keys, but they may not be able do this in the immediate future or at any time. There are many dealerships that have an abundance of customers and therefore may not be able accommodate you right away. Additionally, they might not be able to make an exact copy of your key.
Another option is to buy a replacement car key online. You can find them on Amazon and other websites for a lot less than what you would buy from a dealer, however, they might not be able to cut and program them for the specific model of car you have.
Some insurance policies will cover the cost to replace a lost or stolen vehicle key. Therefore, it's worth checking whether you have insurance which will help pay for the cost of purchasing a new key for your vehicle. Remember to show proof of ownership to the person or company who is responsible for creating your replacement key. This is required by law. It can be extremely expensive if you are not able to provide proof of ownership.
2. Contact the Dealership
It wasn't long ago that misplacing or losing your car keys wasn't an issue. It was easy to get an alternative key at the dealership, and it didn't cost too much to get it done. However, this is no longer the case since cars are more sophisticated and keys are more expensive. It's not uncommon to shell out hundreds of dollars for a brand new set of keys in the event that you lose them today.
If you've lost your car keys, the first thing you must do is to act in a calm manner. This will help you think clearly and make an informed decision. If you have lost your original keys, you should keep an extra set of keys in your pocket or car trunk. This will ensure that you're not in a financial bind. Find out if your warranty or insurance covers the cost of a key replacement. This can save you money in an emergency.
The next step is to do a thorough search of your home, car, and your wallet or purse for the missing keys. You can also try to retrace your steps, remembering where you last saw them and where you were when you lost them. This might help you determine where they went and can be a huge relief.
Contact your dealer if haven't been able to find your keys after an exhaustive search. Dealerships are knowledgeable about your specific vehicle, so they're the best place to go for a new key. However, they're often busy and can't accommodate people at short notice, which can cause the process to be frustrating.
If you're able to get a hold of your dealership they'll be able create a new key for you based on the VIN number that is on file. They can also modify the immobilizer system which is needed to start your car. Locksmiths are an excellent choice if you want a quick and reliable solution, without having to wait in the dealership.
3. Call Highly recommended Reading , misplacing your car keys wasn't an issue. A locksmith could visit your home and duplicate your keys at an affordable price. As automobiles have become more technologically advanced, keys have also become more expensive.
Depending on your vehicle type and year, replacing a lost key could be a lengthy procedure that could cost hundreds of dollars. It's always a good idea to have an extra set of car keys in your pocket. This is especially important when you live in an area of danger or an area that has an extremely high rate of theft.
It may seem like a waste of time to call your insurance provider however it could save you money over time. Talk to your agent to see whether you can obtain an alternative car key that is covered by your policy.
Another thing to consider is whether your policy includes roadside assistance. If you have roadside assistance, someone may come to your aid. This is less stressful than dealing with a dealership or locksmith.
Before you call your insurance company, be sure to thoroughly search for your keys. If you believe they are in the car, search inside the trunk and beneath the seat. Examine the pockets of your clothing and other places where you may have gotten used to placing them. Check any places where you might have left them. For instance, your purse or in a messy office.
Contact your dealer to replace the keys once you've attempted to find them. This isn't an issue, and it's cheaper than calling an locksmith or calling the insurance company.
When you visit the dealership, you might want to inquire whether you can have a spare key made, particularly if you don't have a key fob. The dealership will usually be able to duplicate an extra key for you without having to alter anything else in your vehicle. If you choose to do this, be sure you keep the key in a secure and safe place to find it next time you lose it.
4. Contact the police
Reporting lost car keys can help you find the keys and keep you safe. If someone steals your car without permission, they could be subject to fines if they drive it on streets in the city or private property. If you report the keys missing prior to the person making off with your vehicle, you'll know that you have an official paper trace of when it went missing and who reported it.
It's common to lose keys to your car, but it does not need to be a disaster. You can obtain a replacement car key quickly and easily if you contact the right people. If you follow the guidelines in this article, you'll be able to prevent any future key loss!
Follow your steps. This will give you an idea of where your keys might have gone missing and can aid in remembering what you were doing at the time. If you were driving to work and then stopped at a restaurant in order to get some food You may recall that keys were in your pockets as you left the vehicle. If you cannot find your key, you could have put it in the bag that you carried around with things or on the table you ate at.
Posting your lost key online is another good idea. This will increase the likelihood of finding the key by bringing it to a wider audience. You can also inquire with local businesses as well as other community bulletin boards.
Before you begin looking for your keys, it's important to write down the VIN number of your vehicle. You'll require this information to replace your keys therefore it's essential to keep it in a safe place. You can usually find the VIN on your driver's licence, but it's also sometimes printed on your insurance card or in the owner's manual for your vehicle.
Once you've exhausted all other options then it's time to call the police. You can get an interim replacement vehicle from the police, and they will also file a report which is useful in the event that your keys are found.