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How to Replace Lost Car Keys Things are often lost in the rush of bringing kids to and from school, completing errands and working. Our car keys are one of the most frequently lost items. In the past, this was not an issue since you could easily replace it at your local hardware store or locksmith. However, nowadays, it isn't as easy. 1. Contact Your Car Dealership If you've lost your car keys The first person you should contact is your local car dealer. Most car dealers keep track of every key that is designed for their vehicles, making it easy for them to find your keys. It can be costly to visit a dealer, so you should shop around. You may be able to get a cheaper option through an auto locksmith. In most instances, you'll have to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership, such as an original registration or title, in order to get a replacement key from the dealership. The dealership will then request a new key and pair it with your vehicle. The dealer will need to complete this lengthy process. Smart keys are a form of key that is used in a variety of cars in the present. They are designed to work with a proximity sensor that can be activated within the car, which allows keyless entry and start. They are usually used with push-to-start ignitions. The dealer can sell you a smart key but it is expensive. Local auto locksmiths can give you a smart key at less than the cost. You can also purchase a replacement for your classic key at your local hardware store. They can design a standard lock cylinder key. They will need the VIN and the year of manufacture. If you're unable to find the VIN, it is usually stamped on a metal plate located on the driver's side doorpost or dashboard. Even if you do not have the original, many locksmiths in the automotive industry can provide you with an alternate car key. In some instances the locksmith may need to take apart the door lock and ignition to accomplish this. This is not a hazardous task, but it requires some knowledge of mechanics. 2. Contact a Locksmith The most frequent reason for seeking roadside assistance is when you've lost your car keys. Keep an extra car key with you and store it safely. However, even the most careful people may lose their car keys. It is important to thoroughly search for the key and notify your insurance company as soon as you can to minimize the chance of being denied a claim in the event that it turns up stolen later. If you don't have an extra key, your next best option is to contact the locksmith. Locksmiths can usually provide a replacement key at less than what the dealership would charge. They are also able to come out to your location and make the key on the spot which 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 type you own. The most affordable keys are the traditional keys that can be bought at most hardware stores. They cost about $10 per key. If your car is equipped with keys that can be used as a remote for unlocking and start the car, or a smart-key that can only be replaced at a dealership, the cost of these keys is usually more expensive than the standard one. In most instances, an automotive locksmith will be able to replace a key fob or smart key as long as they can get the VIN number for your car that is usually found on a metal plate on your driver's side doorpost or etched into the windshield of the car. They will require proof of ownership, such as your registration or title. Always conduct your research prior to hiring a locksmith. You can find reputable auto locksmiths by searching online, or asking family and friends for suggestions. Be aware that using an unauthorized key to start your vehicle could result in an infringement of warranty. Unauthorized keys can damage your car's lock. If you aren't willing to risk it is a good idea to call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith and wait for your replacement key from the dealer. 3. Call Your Insurance Company One of the worst things you can do when you lose your car keys is to panic. Take a deep breath, and then try to rationalize your situation. It is more likely that you lost your keys than they were stolen. The next step is retrace the steps you took and try to locate where your keys went missing. what to do if lost car keys might want to check areas you're not usually checking like the pockets of your pants or bag or coat that you use to run in. After you've looked through all of these areas it's a good idea contact your insurance company. Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that communicate through chips with the car. This process of communication allows the car to recognize the key fob, unlock the doors and then start the engine. It is essential to immediately report the loss of your keys immediately to stop unauthorized persons from using your vehicle. Certain car insurance companies provide a policy add-on that covers the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. It's worth talking to your insurance provider to see whether they provide this kind of coverage or if you can locate an individual locksmith that can cover the cost. If your car is equipped with an ordinary mechanical key, you can typically get it replaced at any hardware store for a nominal cost. However, if your car is equipped with an electronic key fob that's paired with your car through the chip, you'll have go to the dealership for an upgrade. It can be costly, but it is much cheaper than hiring an expert locksmith. In addition to the expense of replacing your car key and submitting an insurance claim for a stolen key could cause your car insurance rates to rise. This is because the insurance company will consider you to be a high-risk driver for losing your car keys and could increase your premiums to cover the cost of paying out the claim. You can cut down on these additional cost by buying an electronic device to track your lost keys or hiring a professional locksmith to design a key without cloning the original key. 4. Call towing truck It's one of the most difficult things to lose your car keys and no one wants it to happen. If it does happen it could cost a lot to replace the key and get back on the road. It's essential to be prepared in order that you don't have to call a tow-truck and save your money. When you've lost your car keys, the very first thing to do is retrace your steps. This will help you find them and calm your panic. You may remember doing something in the supermarket or putting your keys on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you determine your place of origin. If you're unable to locate your keys, search for places 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're unable to locate them, take a moment to relax, and then call an locksmith or a tow truck. Another option is to make use of a bluetooth key tracker on your phone. These are small devices that can be connected to your keyring and have an app on your phone that can let you know where your keys are so you don't have to go through every pocket or drawer in your house. The cost to replace a lost car key can vary depending on what kind of key you own. You can save money if you have an old-fashioned car key. A locksmith for automotive is usually able to make a replacement on the spot, but without the original. If you have a smart key that uses proximity sensors to open the doors or turn on the engine of your car, you will need to visit a dealership to purchase a new one. It is important to have a plan in case you lose your keys. This will spare you the expense of a tow-truck or locksmith. It's easy to lose your car keys when you're tired after a long work day or when your mind is distracted by other things. By following these guidelines, you can make sure that your keys don't disappear forever, and you'll have a back-up plan in case they happen to disappear.