How to Get Replacement Car Keys When They Disappear
It can be extremely stressful to lose your keys to your car, particularly when you can't start or open your vehicle without keys. Remain calm and follow the steps you took to locate your keys.
Many dealerships for cars can make a new key for you, and then pair it with your car. This can be costly.
Get a spare key
Sometimes car keys disappear in the most inconvenient places. Perhaps you're running a quick errand and have forgotten to put them back on the seat, or maybe you're tired from a long day at work and drop them where you can't find them as you head home. Whatever the reason you've lost your keys, it can be frustrating. Luckily, there are several methods to obtain an extra key for your vehicle.
It is easy to replace a key whether your car uses an old-fashioned mechanical key or a most recent key fob. You can buy a new one from any automotive shop or locksmith, and most of them can program the key for your specific vehicle. Some will even replace your old keys for free or at a reduced cost.
You could contact the dealership for a replacement. Dealerships maintain records of all the vehicles they sell, so they'll have your information on file and can make an immediate replacement. Typically, dealerships will charge more for a new key, but they could be more convenient than an auto locksmith.
It may be harder to find your keys if you are using a modern key fob. These devices emit an electronic signal that activates the car's system that allows you to lock and unlock the doors and start the engine. If you've lost your key fob you can call the dealership to have a new one programmed for you. However, this process can be expensive and take some time to complete.
You could also try to reset your key. Sometimes, extreme conditions like sweat or weather can cause keys to stop working. You can reset your keys by finding the owner's manual for your car and following the directions in it.
Before you begin ensure that you write down the year, make, and model of your car. The VIN number is unique to every car, and you can find it on your registration documents or in the vehicle's owner's manual. This number is crucial to know prior to searching for your keys. It will permit the key to be programmed to the correct vehicle.
Contact your car dealership
There are a few options to replace lost keys to your car, but the dealership is likely your best option. They are knowledgeable about the cars they sell, and they have been trained to work with your vehicle's security system. Additionally they have access the necessary parts and key blanks for your particular model. This means that the replacement key will function properly with your vehicle's immobiliser. Lastly, getting your car key replaced through the dealership won't void your warranty.
Dealerships cost more for their services than locksmiths, but they can replace your lost key fob faster and more efficiently. This is an excellent alternative if you're in the midst of a crisis. It's costly and inconvenient. You'll need to provide your car's model and make, the VIN number of the vehicle (VIN), and evidence of ownership.
The traditional car key is a forged key that is inserted into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle. visit cost less than $20, so you can get one at your local hardware store. You can also use a locksmith to replace your car key however, it is important to find out their price beforehand.
Another kind of car key is the smart key that has a built-in proximity sensor that allows you to unlock and start your car when within the range. They are more difficult to replace, as they must be programmed to your specific vehicle. If you own a smart key, you should make contact with the dealer to have it replaced.
Your car dealer may be able to replace keys that have been lost, however you might have bring your vehicle to the dealership for a consultation. It's an inconvenience, but it's the most efficient way to replace your lost keys. This is also the most cost-effective, as a professional locksmith can be right there. You'll need to provide your car's VIN, model and year, as well as proof of ownership to have a new key made.
Contact a Locksmith
It can be terrifying to realize that you've lost your car keys. There are many ways to get rid of the issue and prevent having to pay expensive replacement costs.
Check all possible places where you may have put your keys. Take out your bags and pockets and look through all the things you've touched during that day. It's possible that you threw your keys in your pocket while you were shopping or dropped them on the ground when you reached into your bag for something else.
If you are not at home, look in the trunk of your vehicle. It's a common spot for people to leave their keys, particularly if they're laden with groceries. You can also look under your seat or in your glove compartment to locate your keys. If you're unable to locate your keys, you can call an expert locksmith or a hardware store which specializes in cutting keys for vehicles.
If you have an older vehicle you might be able to purchase a standard key from a locksmith or even a hardware store for less than $10. However, modern cars have more sophisticated keys which require a locksmith who has special equipment to replace them. In certain instances, the cost of replacing these kinds of keys can be more than the value of the car itself.
Most automobiles from 1990 and above have a unique code for keys that is saved on file with the manufacturer. This code is used to create an alternative key. This process can be assisted by the dealer however, hiring an experienced locksmith in your area is typically cheaper.
The best method to obtain a new key for your vehicle is to contact the dealer directly, however this option can be expensive. If you cannot afford to go to a dealership to obtain a replacement key, you can also opt for an auto locksmith or roadside service. Write down your VIN so you can obtain the correct key.
Contact your insurance company
In the past, up until the past few decades the loss of a car's key was not considered to be an issue of concern. You could purchase keys for your car from a variety of hardware stores and local locksmiths, or even the nearest car dealership. Modern cars come with smart keys that have anti-theft features to make them more difficult to steal. This technology has also made it more expensive to replace lost car keys. Newer models can cost up to $500 to replace keys.
Auto locksmiths are the most affordable option to replace a lost key. They are usually the quickest and most affordable option. They can also help to reprogram an immobilizer and make a new lock key. You must always look at the prices before selecting locksmith. This is because the cost will vary widely between companies.
Another option is to call your insurance company. Many auto insurance companies include key fob replacement in their policies. You should be aware that the process can take some time and could be more expensive than paying for the service directly. Some car insurance companies charge a deductible before they will cover the cost to replace your keys.
It is important to notify your insurance company as quickly as you can of the loss. This will help prevent your vehicle from being stolen while you are waiting. You should also cancel all credit cards that are linked to the vehicle in case anyone makes use of it for committing an offense.
A spare key is the best method to safeguard yourself from financial issues. It is also essential to monitor your car's fuel levels and batteries, to ensure you don't run out of gas or charge the battery. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service is always accessible through the GEICO app. It's easy to add ERS- just login to the GEICO app and you can call our 24/7 helpline.