Lost Key Replacement Car Tips That Will Change Your Life
How to Get a Replacement Car Key Quickly and Easily
Keys that are lost can happen at the most inconvenient moments, like when you are loading groceries into your trunk. Fortunately, there are ways to obtain a replacement car key quickly and easily.
Engaging a locksmith is the most cost-effective choice. Most locksmiths will also remove the old keys from your vehicle's system. This means that anyone who has the spare key won't be allowed to start your car.
1. Contact a locksmith
Losing your keys can be an extremely frustrating experience, especially when you're running late to an appointment. There are steps you can follow to minimize the damage, and prevent any future issues.
Calling a locksmith who specializes in automotive lockouts is the most effective option. Generally, these locksmiths have the most up to date key coding and diagnostic equipment and can replace lost keys more quickly than other locksmiths. They also typically cost less than dealerships and are therefore the cheapest option.
You could also visit a local garage, although it will likely be more expensive. These garages might not have the equipment for coding keys to vehicles that professional locksmiths would possess, and they may have a longer wait.
The key can also sometimes become faulty. This occurs when the key has worn down and the teeth don't fit into the lock. This issue occurs in older cars but can also occur in newer ones. If lost car keys is malfunctioning it is worth trying to reset it prior to you buy an alternative.
You can also get in touch with your vehicle's manufacturer if you require a new key. This isn't easy and expensive. The locksmith will need to find the VIN number of your vehicle and then use it to create a key for you. You can find this information on your registration documents for your vehicle or a sticker on the jamb on the driver's side of the door or the trunk lid. You can also look for it on your insurance details. If you need to contact the manufacturer they will likely ask for your vehicle to be towed to their workshop. This could cost you several hundred dollars for towing and labor. A spare key is the most efficient method to avoid these costs.
2. Visit the Dealership
It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys was not a big deal. You could just contact the dealership from which you bought your car, and they would provide you with an alternative key right away. Unfortunately, modern cars are more expensive and replacing lost keys can be extremely costly. It's important to keep a spare car key and keep it in a safe location.
If you own a traditional key that doesn't employ any specific technology to unlock or start your vehicle, you can go to any hardware or locksmith store to get a replacement. If you own a key fob or switchblade that activates a sensor to open your car's doors and also start the motor and start the engine, it's recommended to go to your dealer. The dealership has the tools and equipment required to replace a key fob.
Another advantage of visiting a dealership is that they are knowledgeable of your particular make and model of vehicle. They will know how to program your key and might even have the correct key on hand. This could save you money and time.
The dealership can also be the ideal option if the car is covered by a warranty. A lot of warranties include key fob replacements and can get you back on your way more quickly.
You can avoid this situation by always having two keys in different locations. This will ensure that you will never be left without your vehicle, and that you always have an emergency backup to get you where you need to go. If you do lose your keys, it is crucial to act immediately and to determine the best solution to your specific situation.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
You misplace your keys and the only way to get them replaced is to pay a hefty amount to a dealership or locksmith. The cost of replacing keys has increased as cars have become more complex. In the past, you could get an inexpensive key replacement that was like the original and it was affordable.
Nowadays, cars have smart keys that are made up of laser-cut keys and chips that send signals to your car. They can be expensive to replace because they have to be connected to your vehicle. It is essential to have an extra key in case you lose the one you currently have. This can be expensive to replace.
Contact your insurance company to determine if they will cover the cost of a replacement key, if you have one. You'll need to ensure that your car is insured under comprehensive coverage or a specific add-on and the loss of the key has to be reported within 30 days. The insurance provider will reimburse you for the key that was lost.
In order to get your claim approved, you will be required to submit to your insurance company the receipt or invoice for the key. Additionally, you will need to submit an First Information Report (FIR) with the police station in case your vehicle was stolen.
Most times the loss of a key will not be covered by your insurance policy as it is considered to be personal property and not a part of the vehicle. However, there are a few exceptions, so it is recommended to review your policy prior to losing your keys to your car. If you lose them, don't be worried - follow the steps in this article to recover the keys or obtain a new car keys. You can now drive your car again!
4. Tow truck
Lost keys can be a huge hassle, and you may have to pay to replace them. Based on the type of key you've got for your car, it could cost hundreds of dollars. However, there are ways to prevent this from occurring.
For instance, you can invest in a program for replacement of your car keys which will pay for the cost of your lost keys. These programs may also provide other benefits like roadside assistance, rental discounts, and concierge services when you're traveling.
You can also buy an extra key and keep it separately from your car keys. This will help you avoid losing your car keys, especially in the event that you are often forgetful. Keep your spare car key in a place you are sure is secure. For instance, a hidden storage space in your home or at work is a great location for this.
You could also obtain a replacement key for your car at the dealer. It's costly, but the fastest way to return to the road is to get a new car key. You can also be assured that the new key you receive will be an OEM transponder from the factory and won't be stolen easily.
Another option is to speak with a professional locksmith. These experts can design a new car key you using your vehicle's VIN number and their key-cutting equipment. They can also reprogram a smart key, if needed. They can offer superior service and are less expensive than dealerships.
If you've lost your keys, don't panic. Relax and try to recall where you last looked for your keys. Most likely, you'll spot them in the near future. If you are unable to locate them and you're not sure, contact a tow vehicle to get help. They have the technology, experience and skilled personnel to respond quickly to this issue. They can also provide reasonable towing and vehicle recovery services. They also offer emergency auto-lockout services for customers. If you're stuck in a ditch or have been locked out of your car, contact Action Towing for help. They'll get you back on the road in no time.