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20 Resources That'll Make You More Efficient At Replace Lost Car Key
How to Replace Lost Car Keys

Things can get lost in the rush of getting kids to and from school, running errands and working. Our car keys are one of the most commonly lost items.

In the past, this was not an issue since you could easily replace it at your local hardware store or locksmith. Today, it's not as easy.

1. Contact Your Car Dealership

If you lose your car key, the first place you should contact is your car dealer. Most dealers keep track of each key designed for their vehicles, so it should be easy for them to locate yours. The disadvantage is that going to the dealership can be costly, so it's important to shop for a different one. You may be able to locate a lower cost option by using an auto locksmith.

In most instances, you'll need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, like a copy of your title or registration, to obtain an alternative key from the dealer. The dealership will then purchase a new key and pair it with your vehicle. The dealer will have to complete this lengthy process.

Smart keys are a kind of key that is utilized in a variety of cars today. These keys are designed for a proximity sensor to be activated inside the car, which allows keyless entry and start. They are usually paired with push-to-start ignitions. Dealers will offer you a smart key, however, it's expensive. A local auto locksmith can design the smart key at a fraction of what you would pay at the dealership.

You can also get an old-fashioned key replacement at your local hardware store. They can create a standard lock cylinder key. They will require the VIN and the model year. If you are unable to locate the VIN on your vehicle, it will be stamped on a metal plaque that is placed on the dashboard or the driver's doorpost. Even if you don't have the original, most locksmiths for automotive will be able to provide you with an alternate car key. In some instances they might need to remove the door and ignition in order to do this. It is not a dangerous job, but it requires some technical knowledge.

2. Contact for a locksmith

The most common reason for seeking roadside assistance is because you've lost your car keys. It is essential to keep a spare key on you and ensure you keep it in a safe place. However, even the most careful people may lose their car keys. It's important to check thoroughly for the keys and notify your insurance company as soon as you can to minimize the chances of getting denied a claim if it is found later stolen.

Calling a locksmith is the next best thing when you don't have an extra key. Locksmiths can usually provide a replacement key at less than what the dealership will cost. They will usually come out to 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 key can vary depending on the kind of key you own. Keys with traditional designs that can be exchanged at the majority of hardware stores for around $10 each they are the least expensive. If your car is equipped with a key fob that can be used as a remote for unlocking and start the vehicle or a smart-key, which is only able to be replaced at a dealership, the price of these keys is typically more expensive than the standard one.

A locksmith can replace keys that are smart or fob in the majority of cases as long they have the VIN number for your vehicle. It is usually located on the metal plate that is on the driver's doorpost or on the windshield. lost car keys will also require proof that you own the car and have an original registration or title.

Some locksmiths are not licensed or insured, so be sure to do your research prior to hiring them. You can find qualified auto locksmiths by looking online or asking family and friends for recommendations. Also, be aware that using keys that are not yours to start your car could lead to the breach of your vehicle's warranty. A key that is not authorized could cause damage to the lock on your car. If you don't want to take this risk you should call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith for cars and wait until the dealer delivers a new key.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

One of the worst things you can do when you lose your car key is to panic. The first thing you should do is to take a deep breath and try to rationalize the situation. Most likely, you lost your keys due to you misplaced them, rather than having them taken. The next step is to retrace your steps and attempt to determine where they were lost. It's a good idea to check areas you're not usually checking like the pockets of your pants or coat or a bag you carry to run in. After you've inspected all of these areas, it's a good idea to call your insurance company.

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys which communicate with your car through chip. This process of communication allows the vehicle to recognize and open the doors and start the engine. It is crucial to report the loss of your keys immediately to stop unauthorized persons from utilizing your vehicle.

Certain car insurance companies offer an insurance add-on that will cover the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. It's worth talking to your insurance provider to see whether they have this type of coverage or if they can locate an individual locksmith who will pay for the cost.

If your car is equipped with a standard mechanical key, you'll be able to have it replaced at a variety of hardware stores for a small fee. If your car uses an electronic key that connects to your vehicle via the chip, you will have to visit the dealership to purchase an replacement. It can be costly but it's also cheaper than hiring locksmith.

Filing an insurance claim due to the theft of your car key could increase your insurance rates. Your insurance company could raise your premiums due to the fact that they'll view you as a high-risk driver because you lost your key. Fortunately, you can avoid the extra expenses by buying a tracking device that can locate your car key that has been lost or having a locksmith create the new key without cloning the original.

4. Contact a Tow Truck

Nobody wants to lose their car keys. It is the worst thing that could happen. But if it does it can be expensive to replace the key that was lost and get back on the road again. It's why it's important to be prepared if it happens, so you don't have to call a tow truck and keep your cash in your wallet.

Follow your steps if you've lost your keys. This will help you find the keys and calm your panic. You might remember doing something in the grocery store or putting your keys on the table while ordering pizza. This will help you determine where you should start.

If you can't locate your keys, check places where you may have placed them, like the pockets of the clothing you were wearing, or in the bag that you carried them in to take them to home. If you are unable to locate them, take a few minutes to relax and then call an locksmith or a tow truck.

A key tracker with bluetooth can be utilized on your phone. These are small devices that can connect to a keyring and an app for your smartphone will provide you with the whereabouts of your keys.

The cost of replacing lost car key can be a bit expensive according to the type of key that you have. If you have a conventional key that is used for automotive, a locksmith can usually make a new one on the spot without the original one, which can save you money. However, if you own an electronic key that relies on a proximity sensor to open the door or start the engine, you'll have to go to the dealership to get a replacement.


You should have a plan in place for the event that you lose your keys. This will save you the expense of the tow-truck or locksmith. It's easy to lose your car keys when you're tired after a long work day or when your attention is focused distracted by other things. By following these guidelines, you can make sure that your keys don't disappear forever, and have a back-up plan in the event that they do.

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