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How to Replace Lost Car Keys Things are often lost in the rush of getting kids to and from school, running errands and working. One of the most frequently lost items that go missing is our car keys. In the past, this wasn't a big deal because you could easily replace it at the local hardware store or locksmith. Today, it's not as simple. 1. Call Your Car Dealership Your car dealer is the first person you should call should you lose your keys. Most car dealers keep a log of every key that is made for their vehicles making it easy for them to track down your key. It is expensive to visit a dealer and therefore, you should research. You may be able to find a cheaper option by using an auto locksmith. You will most likely need to provide the dealership with your vehicle identification number, or VIN, as well as evidence of ownership (such as a copy of registration or title) to obtain the replacement key. The dealership will then request an additional key and connect it with your vehicle. This can be a lengthy process, and you will need to wait for the dealer to complete the task. 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, allowing keyless entry and starting. They are usually used with ignitions that are push-to-start. The dealer will sell you a smart key, however, it's expensive. A local auto locksmith can make the smart key for a fraction of what you'd pay at the dealership. You can also purchase a traditional key replacement at your local hardware store. They can create the standard lock cylinder keys. 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 that is located on the driver's side doorpost or the dashboard. Even if you do not have the original, most automotive locksmiths can offer an alternative car key. In certain instances the locksmith might need to remove the ignition and door locks to accomplish this. It's not a risky job, but it does require some knowledge of mechanics. 2. Call a locksmith The most frequent reason for seeking roadside assistance is that you have lost your car keys. Keep an extra car key in your bag and store it in a safe place. Even the most careful of people could lose their keys. It's important to check thoroughly for the key and notify your insurance company as quickly as you can to minimize the chance of being denied a claim if the key is found later stolen. Calling a locksmith is the next best thing in the event that you don't have an extra. Locksmiths can usually provide a replacement key at less than what the dealership will charge. They can also usually visit your place and create the key right there, which is much more convenient than having to bring your vehicle back to the dealership. The cost of replacing your car key will vary based on the type you have. The most affordable keys are the standard keys that can be bought at many hardware stores. They are about $10 per key. If your car comes with keys that can be used as a remote to lock and start the vehicle or a smart-key that can only be replaced at a dealership, the cost of these keys is typically higher than the traditional one. A locksmith can replace a smart key or key fob in the majority of cases as long as they have the VIN number for your vehicle. This is usually found on the metal plate that is on the driver's doorpost or on the windshield. They will need proof of ownership, like your registration or title. You should always do your research before hiring locksmith. You can find qualified auto-locksmiths through online search engines, or asking family and friends for recommendations. Also, be aware that using keys that are not yours to start the car can cause a breach of the warranty on your vehicle. Using unauthorized keys may also damage your car's lock. If you aren't willing to take this risk is a good idea to contact roadside assistance instead of a locksmith and wait for a replacement key from the dealer. 3. Call Your Insurance Company Panic is one of the most unpleasant reactions you could be experiencing when you lose your key. Relax, and then try to rationalize your situation. Chances are that you lost your keys due to you lost them, rather than having them taken. The next step is retrace the steps you took and try to locate the location where your keys went missing. It's a good idea to check areas you're not usually checking such as the pockets of your pants or coat or a bag that you use for running. After you've checked these places, you should call your insurance provider. The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that communicate with your vehicle via chips. This communication process allows the vehicle to recognize and open the doors and then start the engine. It is crucial to inform the authorities of the loss of your key immediately to prevent unauthorized individuals from utilizing your vehicle. Certain car insurance companies provide an insurance add-on that covers the cost of replacing a lost vehicle key. Check with your insurance company to determine if this kind of insurance is offered or if a locksmith can cover the cost. You can usually replace a mechanical key in many hardware stores at a reasonable cost. If your car is equipped with an electronic key that connects with your vehicle using the chip, then you'll need to visit your dealership to obtain a replacement. This can be expensive however it's more cost-effective than hiring locksmith. Filing an insurance claim due to the theft of your car key could increase your insurance rates. This is because your insurance provider will consider you to be a high-risk driver for losing your car keys, and may raise your premiums to cover the cost of paying out an insurance claim. You can reduce these cost by buying an electronic device to track your lost key or hiring a professional locksmith to create an original key without copying the previous key. 4. Call towing truck No one wants to lose their car keys. It is the worst scenario that could occur. If it does happen it could cost a lot to replace keys and get back on the road. That's why it's best to be prepared for when it does, so you can avoid having to call an tow truck and keep your cash in your wallet. When you've lost your car keys, the first thing to do is trace your steps. This will help you determine where they are, and help calm your panic. You might remember doing something at the supermarket, or dropping your keys on the table when ordering pizza. This will help you find your starting point. If you are unable to locate your keys, look in places where you could have placed them, such as the pockets of the clothes you were wearing, or the bag you used to carry them to home. If look at this site to locate them, take some time to relax and then call an locksmith or a tow truck. A key tracker bluetooth can also be used on your phone. These are small devices that can connect to a keyring and an app on your smartphone will provide you with the whereabouts of your keys. The cost to replace the car key that has been lost can vary depending on what kind of key you have. If you own a traditional key that is used for automotive, a locksmith can usually make a new one on the spot without the original, which will save you some money. But if you have an electronic key that utilizes a proximity sensor to open the door or start the engine, you'll have to go to the dealership to purchase a new one. It's important to have a plan in case you lose your car keys so that you can avoid the hassle of having to pay for a tow truck or a locksmith. It's easy to lose your car keys when you're exhausted after a long day or when your attention is focused on other things. By following these tips you can ensure that your keys won't disappear forever, and you'll have a back-up plan in the event that they happen to disappear.