How to Replace a Lost Car Key Anyone who has lost their car keys know how difficult it can be. However, there are steps you can do to reduce the stress and expense that comes with it. Check all possible places you could have put them. If not, it's time to call someone. There are a variety of options to pick from: 1. Contact Your Car Dealership A car key is a small piece of metal that enables you to unlock and start your vehicle. It's not uncommon to lose your car keys. The good thing is that it's simple to replace. This guide will show you how to quickly and easily replace a standard car key, or smart key. A lot of newer vehicles have keys that are designed to be smart. This means they're equipped with an electronic chip programmed to work with a particular vehicle. You'll have to visit the dealer where you purchased your car to get a new key if you own the smart key. The dealer will have to match the new key to your specific car, so you'll likely have to wait for a couple of days before you can drive again. If you're lucky, your dealer may have the key on hand and be able to hook it with your car immediately. However, the dealer might charge you a premium for this service. Alternately, you can go to locksmiths who can repair the car key at a much cheaper price. Check to see if there are spare keys available before you call an expert locksmith or dealer. If you do, keep them in a secure place in which they're not likely to get lost. You might consider looking online for keys that are used or an aftermarket replacement. These are often sold at a fraction of the price it would cost to get a new one from the manufacturer. It's not as bad as people imagine. It's also not as expensive as many think. You'll be back in your car in no time if know whom to call, how to find a replacement and how to avoid further losses. To ensure that you don't lose your keys, a good method is to create a specific spot for them and always put them there after you've used them. This will become a routine and make it easier to locate your keys should you lose them. 2. Contact Your Insurance Company Whatever you may be losing your car keys could be a terrifying experience. It's among the three most frequently lost objects, and it can trigger panic and a frantic search to find your car keys. This is not always a lost case, and there are many options to get the replacement of your car keys by insurance. Based on your specific situation, you could attempt to locate the key on your own or call the dealership and the car manufacturer for help. Some car dealers can make new keys for cars on their lot. However, it is usually more expensive than using locksmith. Based on your insurance policy and the kind of vehicle you own, you may be able use your roadside assistance to cover the cost of the replacement key. Be sure to look through your car and home thoroughly for keys prior to you call your insurance. This will help find the right place and provide you with a place to start your search. Examine all pockets, under the seat, and in other areas. replacing lost car keys 's recommended to double-check your purse backpack, or wallet to ensure that keys are present. If you have a spare key, you can have it cloned by a locksmith or dealer to make the new key without having to change anything inside your vehicle. If you still can't find your keys, it could be time to contact the police. The police will create a lost and discovered report on your behalf. They may also be able locate the key or let you know whether it's been surrendered. This is a great way to prevent your car from being taken. Also, don't forget to check your phone for notifications about lost and found from apps such as Find My iPhone or iCloud. You can also use GPS tracking apps to locate your car if it's taken away. 3. Contact the manufacturer of Your Vehicle A lost car key is probably the most annoying and frustrating things you can lose, as it's usually impossible to open or drive your car without it. But don't be afraid - it happens to everyone, but there are ways that you can resolve the situation quickly and easily. If your car was built prior to 1981, a standard replacement key can be purchased from the local locksmith shop or some hardware stores. These keys are mechanical and don't require any additional technology such as transponders or chips. If you have an older key that's high-tech, it may need to be replaced by a locksmith or a dealer. This procedure may take longer and you will have to provide proof of ownership to receive the key. A lot of the latest cars are now equipped with remote keys, also known as a fob. These keys are far more advanced than traditional keys made of metal, and require an appropriate fob reader in order to operate the vehicle. These types of keys are more difficult to replace and they can cost between $50-$500 which is why it is always advisable to have spares! Contacting the dealership or a locksmith is the easiest option to replace your lost car key. They can create a key for you and program it so that it will start and unlock your vehicle with a single button press. This isn't always possible if the original key is not available to program with. If you've lost your car keys try to trace your steps as much as you can. This will help you figure out the location they went to if they're not already located and could save you the time of having to search through your entire house or vehicle to find them again in the future. You can also purchase a Bluetooth tracker that you can keep on your keychain. This allows you to locate your keys with an app on your phone. 4. Contact a locksmith Car keys lost can be a frustrating experience. No matter how vigilant you are, it just takes an instant of distraction to lose them and you're without the ability to travel! Thankfully, there are some simple steps you can follow to address this issue. First and foremost, try not to be anxious! It can be terrifying and difficult to lose your car keys, however you must remain calm and think about what you can do. Retrace your steps. Where were they last? This is an important step because it can help you narrow down your search. After that, go through your pockets as well as any other hiding places you may have used. Also, check behind and between the driver's and passenger's seats. Don't forget to examine your backpack or purse in case you suspect you may have left them behind! If you're still unable to locate your car keys, you need to call an expert locksmith. Locksmiths can design a new car key and take out the old chip. This is a more affordable alternative to going back to the dealer, which will likely charge a premium for their services. You can also search online for replacement keys or key fobs at reduced prices. Based on the type of key you own you may be able to get an aftermarket version for less than what it would cost to purchase a new key from the manufacturer. Look around for a person who can program and cut the key so that it can be used on your vehicle. If you don't have a spare car key, it's worth investing in one. If you own an auto that is manual, this can be easily accomplished by any locksmith who can create a new key on the on the spot. If you have an electronic key fob, smart key or other technologically advanced key you will need to contact your dealership to get an replacement.
replacing lost car keys
