A few years ago, losing your car key wasn’t a huge deal. You could purchase a replacement key from any hardware store or, in some cases, at your dealership.
It can be expensive to replace a car key. This article will help you figure out the best way to proceed dependent on the type of your key.
Find a copy of your VIN.
It’s a stressful event to lose your car keys. It’s even more difficult when it happens to you during your vacation or away from home. It’s possible to replace lost car keys by using the VIN number.
A locksmith or a car dealer can create a new key to match your VIN of your vehicle. This procedure can take some time. It also requires you to provide proof of ownership them. This could include your car registration or car insurance documentation. They can’t code a key for your car until they have evidence that you own the vehicle.
The VIN can be found on the windshield or on the driver’s door jamb. It is also on a sticker that is placed in the driver’s seat or on the dashboard. The VIN is comprised of 17 characters and can be used to identify a car. You can also find the VIN on a document or a certificate that was issued to you at the time you purchased your vehicle.
If your car is a recent model, it is likely to have an immobilizer. It makes use of a transponder to start your vehicle. This is not the mechanical key that was inserted into the ignition mechanism in older cars. The key might not be capable of triggering your car but it can still open the trunk and doors.
Contact your car dealer.
It’s not uncommon for people to lose car keys. The good aspect is that you could be able get replacement keys at the dealership or from locksmiths. The method you pick depends on the type of key lost car that your vehicle is using.
If you own a classic double-edged car key, it is possible to go to your local hardware store and get a duplicate made for less than $10. You will need to contact your dealer if you’ve got an older model. They may require that you provide proof of ownership (registration or title) before they can make a new key for you. Additionally the dealer needs to purchase a replacement key and program it into the car’s immobilizer, which could take a few days.
If you have a more recent model that features a transponder the procedure can be more complex. This type of car key is equipped with an electronic chip that communicates with the computer in the vehicle to begin the engine. You’ll need to have your vehicle town into a dealer to have the key created and replacing a lost car key programmable into the system. The process can take several days and you may be required to pay a towing charge on top of the cost. Fortunately, some insurance policies provide roadside assistance that will cover these expenses.
Call an expert locksmith.
It wasn’t long ago that misplacing or, even worse, losing your car keys wasn’t a big deal. You always had the option to get another one at the dealership. As automobiles have technologically advanced and so have keys. replacing lost car key them is a more complicated process that involves a number of steps and costs hundreds of dollars.
Depending on the kind of fob or key you have, you may prefer a locksmith instead of a dealership for the replacement. They are usually less expensive and also save your time. You can also look on the internet for aftermarket replacement keys or fobs. They can be found on websites like Amazon, and they can be less expensive than purchasing a factory-made key at the dealership.
Before calling a locksmith, ensure that you remain at peace and look for your car key lost replacement keys. It’s important to check everywhere you went when you were in your vehicle. Check your pockets, purse or bag and other places that may not be obvious, such as the back of the headrest or the trunk. If you’re still unable to locate your car keys, retrace your steps. You may find your keys exactly where you left them. But if this doesn’t work, you can always contact a locksmith for help.
Contact your insurance company.
Car keys can be troublesome to lose and they can also be expensive to replace. Thankfully, some auto insurance companies and coverage plans provide lost key replacements. The extent of your policy’s coverage depends on whether the key was taken or lost.
If you have lost key to car a normal car key made of steel the procedure is easy. A locksmith can create an original key quickly and at a low cost. If your lost car key is a transponder or smart key, things are much more complicated. These types of keys are harder to replace and require you to visit a dealership for them to be programmed into your vehicle’s system. This can be costly and you may need to tow your car to the dealer.
If your car keys are a transponder or smart key, it is crucial to notify your insurance company immediately. This will not only protect your car from being stolen but also deter people from using the keys to start your car. Moreover, if you report the loss immediately your insurance company can take steps to protect your vehicle and its doors from damage. If you haven’t already considered adding roadside assistance to your insurance policy to assistance in the event of lost keys. This service can be invaluable in these scenarios and is available through GEICO’s Mobile App.