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What's Holding Back In The Replace Lost Car Key Industry?
How to Replace Lost Car Keys

In the rush of getting children to school, running errands and working things tend to become lost. Our car keys are one of the most frequently lost items.

In the past, this wasn't an issue since you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. However, nowadays, it isn't as easy.

1. Call Your Car Dealership

Your car dealer is the first person to contact should you lose your keys. Most dealers keep a log of each key made for their vehicles making it easy for them to locate your key. It is expensive to visit a dealer, so you should shop around. You might be able find a cheaper solution through an auto locksmith.

In the majority of cases, you will need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, like a copy of the title or registration, to get a replacement key from the dealer. The dealership will request the replacement key and attach it to your vehicle. The dealer will need to complete this lengthy process.

A lot of cars today are equipped with the special kind of key known as a smart keys. These keys are designed to activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, allowing the use of a keyless entry system and even starting. They are usually used with ignitions that are push-to-start. The dealer will sell you a smart key however, it's expensive. Local auto locksmiths can make you a smart lock at only a fraction of the cost.

You can also replace the key you have always had at the local hardware store. They can design the standard lock cylinder keys. They will need to know the model year of your car, as well as the VIN. If you are unable to locate the VIN it's usually printed on a metal plate found on the driver's doorpost or the dashboard. Even if you don't have the original, many locksmiths in the automotive industry can provide you with an alternative car key. In some instances the locksmith may need to disassemble the ignition and door locks to accomplish this. This is not a dangerous job for a professional, but it does require some mechanical skills and knowledge.

2. Call an expert locksmith

Losing keys to your car is one of the most common causes for roadside assistance and calls. Keep an extra car key in your bag and keep it safe. However even the most vigilant people may lose their car keys. You should check for the car key and notify your insurance company immediately if you discover it. This will decrease the chances of your claim being rejected later in the event that your key is stolen.

A locksmith's call is the next best option when you don't have an extra. Locksmiths are usually able to offer a replacement key for less than what the dealership would cost. They will usually visit your location and make the key on the spot and is more efficient than having to take your vehicle back to the dealership.

The cost of replacing your car keys can vary depending on the type you have. Keys that are traditional are able to be replaced at most hardware stores for about $10 each and are the cheapest. If your car comes with a key fob that can be used as a remote to unlock and start the car, or a smart-key, which can only by replaced at an auto dealer, the cost of these keys is typically more expensive than the standard one.

A locksmith can replace keys that are smart or fob in most cases so long as they have the VIN number of your car. It is usually located on the metal plate that is on the driver's doorpost, or on the windshield. They will need evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.

Some locksmiths are not licensed or insured, so be sure to investigate them prior to hiring them. You can find qualified auto locksmiths by searching online or asking family and friends for recommendations. Be aware that using an unlicensed key to start your vehicle could result in a breach of warranty. The use of a key that is not authentic could damage the lock of your vehicle. If you don't want to take this risk is a good idea to contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith and wait for your replacement key from the dealer.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

Panic is one of the most unpleasant reactions you could experience when you lose your key. The first thing you should do is take your breath and try to understand the situation. Most likely, you lost your keys due to you misplaced them, instead of having them stolen. The next step is retrace the steps you took and try to locate the place where your keys were. You might want to check places that you wouldn't normally look at, like the pockets of your pants, coat or a bag you carry to run in. Once you've checked all of these areas it's a good idea contact your insurance company.


Modern cars are fitted with electronic keys that communicate with your car through a chip. This allows the car to recognize and open the doors and then start the engine. If you lose your key, it's important to report it immediately to ensure that people who are not authorized can't enter your car and use it.

Some car insurance providers offer an add-on to their policies that covers the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. It is worth contacting your insurance provider to determine if they offer this type of protection or if they can locate an individual locksmith who will cover the cost.

You can usually replace a mechanical key in many hardware stores for a reasonable cost. If, however, your car has an electronic key fob, which is paired with your car through the chip, you'll need to go to your dealership for an upgrade. This can be expensive however it's cheaper than hiring a locksmith.

In addition to the expense of replacing your car key and submitting an insurance claim for the loss of a key could cause your car insurance rates to rise. Your insurance company may increase your premiums as they will consider you an extremely risky driver because you lost your key. Fortunately, you can often save yourself the cost of purchasing a tracking device to track your lost car keys or having a locksmith create an entirely new key without copying the original.

4. Call a tow truck

Nobody wants to lose their car keys. It's the most embarrassing thing that can happen. However, if it does happen it could be costly to replace the key that was lost and get back on the road. It is important to be prepared so that you don't have to call a tow-truck and save your money.

Follow your steps in case you've lost your keys. This will help you find them and ease your anxiety. Try to recall what you did prior to losing your keys, like picking up something from the grocery store or dropping them on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you find your starting point.

If you can't find your keys, look around where they might be, like the pockets of the clothes you were wearing or the bag you put them in when you came home. If you are unable to find them, take a few minutes to relax and then call a locksmith or tow truck.

Another alternative is to use an bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are tiny devices that can be connected to your keyring and use an app for your phone that will show you where your keys are so you don't have to go through every drawer or pocket in your home.

The cost of replacing lost car key can be a bit expensive according to the type of key that you have. It is cheaper if you have an old-fashioned car key. An automotive locksmith will typically be in a position to create a new key on the spot, without the original. If you are using a smart-key that utilizes a proximity detector to open doors or start your car's engine then you'll need to visit a dealership to obtain a replacement.

It's essential to have a plan in case you lose your car keys, so that you can save yourself the headache of having to pay for a tow truck or a locksmith. It's easy to lose your car keys when you're tired after a long day, or when your mind is busy with other things. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your keys won't disappear forever. You should also have an alternative plan in case they happen to disappear.

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