If you’ve lost the keys to your car, stay at peace and follow your steps. This is crucial because it can help you avoid calling a tow truck or an auto locksmith.
Depending on your car key’s model, you can call an auto locksmith to have it replaced. They may also be less expensive than a dealership.
1. Retract your Steps
It can be a bit frightening to lose your keys. The first thing you should do is calm yourself and repeat your steps. It may sound simple however it can be difficult to accomplish when you’re panicking. You can go back to locate the keys in a hurry.
If you can’t remember the last time you had your keys, close your eyes and try to picture them in your head. If this doesn’t work, ask someone else to help you trace your steps. They may be able give you valuable clues to where your keys are.
If you’re at home, check where you usually place your keys after coming in, such as the kitchen table or in the entryway. You should also look in your pockets or bags you carried when you took the day trip.
2. Call an Auto Locksmith
The most straightforward option for keys to your car are lost car key replacement is to contact an auto locksmith. They can create new keys, or re-program the existing one for your specific vehicle. However, they’ll need the VIN number and proof of ownership in order to do this.
A typical double-edged keys for a car should cost less than ten bucks at your local hardware store. If you own a modern key that must be programmed for your vehicle, this will cost more. This requires the locksmith or dealer to have access to the correct equipment and software.
It is recommended to call an expert locksmith if you find that your key is broken or bent. They have the tools and experience to remove keys that are bent or broken, without further damaging the lock. This is the best method to prevent the issue from becoming worse. It’s cheaper to fix the damaged or broken key than to buy another one from the dealer later. Locksmiths are also less time-consuming than an auto dealer.
3. Verify Your VIN
Normal insurance policies do not cover car key replacement. However, based on the policy you have and the kind of car you have (older or newer) you might be able to get reimbursed for a portion of the expenses.
Before calling a locksmith, make sure you check the VIN number on your vehicle to ensure that you are getting the right key. The VIN is a unique 17-digit number that contains information about your car. You can locate the VIN on the doorpost of your driver the title document for your car, or your insurance policy.
The locksmith can generate a key code for you once they have your VIN. This will enable them to make a new key for your vehicle. If you have the keys to an earlier vehicle, the locksmith will often make use of them. You will save time and money by not having to take your car into the dealership. You can also contact your insurance company and inquire whether the cost of the new key will be covered.
4. Contact Your Insurance Company
In the past the loss of car keys wasn’t a big problem. Most people had a spare key lying around, and Car Keys Lost getting a replacement was affordable. Modern cars are equipped with advanced features that make them more secure, but also more costly to replace lost car keys. You may be eligible for reimbursement of lost car key car keys based on your insurance coverage or roadside assistance insurance options.
Some models with more modern technology come with keys that auto locksmiths may not be able to duplicate without the assistance of a dealership. You’ll need bring the vehicle to the dealership and present proof of ownership before they can cut a new key and then electronically connect it to your vehicle.
Unfortunately, the majority of standard car insurance policies do not include insurance for keys lost in the car. There are a few exceptions therefore you should be sure to review your policy. You should also always keep your insurance details as well as a copy FIR with you at all times.
5. Find a new key
Sometimes the best thing to do after losing your keys is to buy a new key. A new key purchased now will save you money stress and towing fees in the future.
The traditional car keys made of metal have been replaced by remote key fobs that can lock or unlock your vehicle from an extended distance. They can also be used to start your engine when a wireless connection between the key and car is established.
The modern keys are difficult to duplicate, making it less likely that your vehicle will be stolen. The issue is that they’re costly to replace lost car keys if you lose them.
If you own a more recent car, check your warranty or insurance to see whether they will cover the cost of a replacement. Some companies offer online assistance to assist you in getting keys for your vehicle. Others require you to visit the dealership to provide proof of ownership. It could take a few weeks to have the new key programmed, and then you can order it. Then you will be free to drive your car for the first time in a while!