Guy Loy спросил 2 года назад
Not too long ago, losing your car key wasn’t a major problem. You could obtain a new key at any hardware store or in certain cases, from your car dealer.
Nowadays however it can be quite expensive to replace the lost car key. This article will show you the most effective solution for the type of key you have.
Take a copy of the VIN.
Losing your car keys can be one of the most stressful events an individual can endure. Even worse, it can occur when you are away on vacation or elsewhere. Fortunately, you can replace keys for your car using the VIN number.
A locksmith or dealer can create a new key for you based upon the VIN number of the vehicle. This process can take time. It also requires you to present proof of ownership to them. This could be your car registration or proof of insurance for your car. They can’t code a key for your vehicle until they have proof that you own it.
The VIN can be located on the windshield, or driver’s door jamb. It is also printed on a sticker in the driver’s seat or on the dashboard. The VIN is 17 characters long and is used to identify your vehicle. You can also find the VIN on a document or a certificate given to you when purchased your car.
If your car is a newer model, it’s probably equipped with an immobilizer. It uses a transponder start your vehicle. This is different from the traditional mechanical key that’s inserted in the ignition cylinder of old cars. A lost key can’t start your car, but it might still open doors and trunk.
Contact your car dealer.
It’s not uncommon for Replacing a Lost Car Key people to lose their car keys. The good news is that you might be able to get an replacement from the dealership or from locksmiths. The method you select depends on the type of key that your vehicle uses.
If you have an old-fashioned double-edged key, you can often get an exact copy at your local hardware shop for less than $10. If you own a brand newer model, you will likely have to contact your car dealer. You might be required to provide proof of ownership before they will make you a new key (registration or title). In addition the dealer will need to order a new key and then programme it into the immobilizer system of your vehicle, which can take several days.
The process could be more complicated if you own the model with transponders. This type of key has an embedded microchip that communicates with the computer of your vehicle. You’ll need to have your car towed into a dealer to have the key manufactured and then programmed into the system. The process can take several days and you may have to pay for a towing charge on top of that. Fortunately, certain insurance policies provide roadside assistance that will cover these charges.
Get an experienced locksmith.
Not too long ago losing or, even more importantly, losing your keys to your vehicle wasn’t that big of a deal. You could always get a new one at the dealer. However, as cars evolved in terms of technology and so have their keys, and replacing them can be a more complex process that requires many steps and could cost you hundreds of dollars.
Depending on the kind of fob or key you own, you might prefer locksmiths instead of the dealership for your replacement. Most of the time, they’ll be cheaper and could save you time too. You can also look online for aftermarket replacement lost car keys keys / fobs. They can be found on websites like Amazon and can be less expensive than purchasing a custom-made one at the dealership.
Before contacting a locksmith, be calm and look for your car keys. Go through every place that you went to when you last in your vehicle. Examine your pockets, the purse or bag you carried and even those places that aren’t obvious, like the back of the headrest or in the trunk. If you’re still not able to locate your car keys, try retracing your steps. You might find your keys exactly where you left. If this doesn’t work, you can always contact locksmiths for assistance.
Call your insurance provider.
It’s frustrating to lose your car keys, and it could be costly to replace them. Certain auto insurance companies will cover the replacement of lost keys. However the extent to which your policy covers it is contingent on whether or not the key was lost key to car or stolen.
The process of replacing a lost metal car key is relatively simple. A locksmith can create an original key for you quickly and cheaply. However, if your lost car key is smart or transponder, things are much more complicated. These keys are more difficult to replace and Replacing a Lost Car Key you’ll have go to the dealer in order to get them programmed into your car’s computer system. This can be expensive and you may need to tow your vehicle to the dealer.
It is crucial to inform your insurance company as soon as possible if your car keys have a transponder. Not only will this stop your car from being stolen, but it also prevents someone from using the missing key to start your car. If you report the loss promptly your insurer will take steps to protect your vehicle and its doors. Consider including roadside assistance as a part of your insurance policy if you haven’t yet. This will help when you lose your keys. This can be a huge help in these situations and is available through GEICO’s Mobile App.
