Lost Car Keys Strategies That Will Change Your Life
How to Replace Lost Car Keys
The loss of car keys is a major headache. It wasn't that long ago, it wasn't a big deal but it's getting more complicated as cars get technologically advanced.
Keys can be lost when you accidentally knock them off the table when you reach into your pocket to find something other. You can prevent this from happening by keeping an extra key at home.
1. Contact an expert locksmith
There's no denying that losing your car keys can be a huge inconvenience. But, there's no need to be in a panic. If you know what to do and who to call, getting your car keys replaced should only take a couple of steps.
One of the first things to do is try to retrace your steps. This may seem obvious, but it can be difficult to do if are in a rush or worried about losing your car keys. Check all your pockets, bags, and the surrounding area around your vehicle.
If you're unable to find your car keys, you need to contact locksmith. Locksmiths can usually create keys for your car much faster than a dealership. Plus, they can usually complete the task for much less than what a dealership would charge you.
Some dealerships can create replacement keys, however they may not be able to do this in the immediate future or at any time. There are many dealerships with many customers, so they might not be able to help your request immediately. They may not also be able to make an exact copy of your current key.
Another option is to buy a replacement car key online. They are available on Amazon and other sites for a lot less than what you would pay at a dealer, although they may not be able to cut and program them for your specific model of car.
Some insurance policies also provide coverage for the cost of replacing a stolen or lost car key. It's a good idea to check your insurance policy to determine if it will cover the cost of replacing a car key. Just remember that you will be required to provide proof of ownership and proof of identity to the person or company who is responsible for the creation of the replacement key. This is legally required. If you're not able to provide proof of ownership, it can be a very expensive experience.
2. Call the Dealership
Not too long ago losing - or losing - your car keys wasn't an issue. It was easy to get an alternative key from a dealership and it didn't cost too much to get it done. However, with cars getting more technologically advanced - and the keys getting more expensive to replace - this isn't as easy as it was in the past. It's not uncommon to shell out hundreds of dollars for a new set of keys when you lose them.
You must be calm when you've lost your car keys. This will allow you to think clearly and make the best decision about how to solve the issue. It is also important to ensure that you have a backup set keys somewhere else, such as in your pocket or the trunk of your car so that if you do lose the original keys they won't cost you any money. Find out if your warranty or insurance covers the cost of replacing a key. This could save you money in an emergency.
The next step is to do an exhaustive search of your home, vehicle and your purse or wallet for keys that have gone missing. You can also go back through the steps you took, recollecting the last time you had your keys and where you were at the time you lost them. This will help you figure out where they are which is a huge relief.
After you've conducted an exhaustive search but are unable to locate your car keys, the next option is to contact your dealership. Dealerships are familiar with the vehicle they are servicing and can supply you with an alternative key. However, they're often busy and can't accommodate people at short notice, which can cause the process to be frustrating.
If you can contact your dealer, they will be able create a key for you using the VIN number that is saved on their system. They can also modify your immobilizer system that is needed to start your vehicle. But if you're looking for a fast, reliable solution that doesn't require waiting in the dealership, a locksmith may be a better option.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
Not so long ago losing your car keys wasn't an issue. Locksmiths could come to your home and duplicate your keys at a reasonable price. As cars have become technologically advanced, keys are also becoming more expensive.
Depending on the type of vehicle and year replacing a lost or damaged key can be a lengthy procedure that could cost hundreds of dollars. It's always a smart idea to keep an extra set of car keys in your pocket. This is especially important in the case of an area that is prone to danger or an area that has an abundance of theft.
Although it might seem like an unnecessary effort to contact your insurance company, it can save you money in the long run. Certain policies will cover the cost of a new car key, so be sure to check with your insurance provider before you lose a key and find yourself in need.
If your insurance policy provides roadside assistance, you should also think about this. If you have roadside assistance, a person might be able to help you. This is a much less stressful option than dealing with a dealer or locksmith.
Make sure you thoroughly search your vehicle before you call your insurance provider. If you think they're in the car, check inside the trunk and beneath the seat. If you're at home, look in the pockets of the clothes you were wearing as well as in other places where you may have a habit of putting them. You should also double-check the places where you may have put them, like your purse or a cluttered desk.
Contact your dealer for replacement of the keys once you've tried to locate them. This isn't a problem, and it's cheaper than calling an locksmith or calling the insurance company.
When you visit the dealership you may want to ask whether you can have a spare key made, particularly in the event that you don't have a key fob. Continue can usually clone an extra key for you without needing to alter any other part of your car. If you do this make sure to keep the key in a location that is secure and safe to ensure you can locate it if you lose it.
4. Call the police
Reporting lost car keys can help you locate them and keep you safe. If someone drives your vehicle on public streets or private property without permission, the driver may be fined. You can protect yourself by registering your keys stolen before someone steals your vehicle. This will leave a paper trail that shows the time and date of the theft.
It's common to lose your car keys, however it does not need to be a disaster. If you contact the appropriate people, you'll be in a position to obtain an alternative key quickly and easily. You can even prevent the possibility of losing keys in the future by following the suggestions that are provided in this article.
First, try to retrace your steps. This will allow you to recall where you may have lost your key. If you were driving to work, then stopped at a restaurant to purchase food You may recall that your keys were in your pocket when you left your vehicle. If you can't locate your keys, you may have left it in the bag you carried around with things or on the table you dined at.
Posting your lost key online is a good idea. This will reach a wide audience and increase the chances of finding it. You can also check with local businesses and other bulletin boards.
It's important that you note down the VIN of your vehicle prior to when you start searching for your keys. You'll need this information to replace your key therefore it's essential to keep it somewhere safe. You can usually find the VIN on your driver's license, but it may also appear on your insurance card or in the owner's manual of your car.
Contact the police when you've exhausted other options. You can obtain an emergency replacement car from the police, and they will also file a report which is useful should your keys ever be found.