Replacing a Lost Car Key

Not long ago the loss of your car key was not a big deal. You could get an replacement from any hardware store or in certain cases even your local car dealership.

Nowadays, however it can be quite expensive to replace the lost car key. This article will show you the most suitable solution for the type of key you have.

Find a copy of your VIN.

The loss of your car keys is one of the most traumatic experiences an individual can endure. It's even worse when it happens when you're on vacation or away from home. Fortunately, you can replace replacing lost car keys car keys by using the VIN number.

A locksmith or dealer can create a replacement key to match your VIN number of the vehicle. This process may take time. You will also need to provide proof of ownership. This could include your car registration or insurance documents for your car. Until they have proof of ownership, they won't be able to use the VIN to code the new key for your vehicle.

The VIN can be located on the windshield or driver's door jamb. The VIN can also be found on the dashboard or in the driver's seat. The VIN has 17 characters and can be used to identify a vehicle. It's also possible for you to find the VIN in a paper or certificate issued when you purchased your vehicle.

Your car may have one, especially if it's an older model. It utilizes a transponder in order to start your car. This is not the mechanical key that was put into the ignition cylinder in older cars. A replacing lost keys to a car key can't start your car, but it may still open the trunk and doors.

Contact your car dealer.

It's not common for people to lose their car keys. It is possible to obtain a replacement key at the dealership or through a locksmith. But the method you choose to go with will depend on the type of key that your vehicle uses.

If you have an old-fashioned double-edged key it is possible to get a duplicate at your local hardware shop for less than $10. You'll need to contact your dealer if you've got a more recent model. You may have to show proof of ownership before they will create a new keys (registration or title). Additionally the dealer will have to obtain a replacement key and have it programmed into the immobilizer system of your vehicle, which can take several days.

If you have a newer model that features a transponder the procedure can be much more complicated. The type of car key is embedded with an electronic chip that communicates with the vehicle's computer to begin the engine. You'll have to get your vehicle towed to a dealership to have the key created and programmed into the system. The process can take a few days and you may need to pay a towing charge in addition to. Fortunately, Replacing a Lost Car Key some insurance policies offer roadside assistance that will cover the costs.

Get an expert locksmith.

Not so long ago the possibility of misplacing or worse, losing-your keys to your car weren't that big of the issue. After all, you always could purchase an alternative one from the dealership. However, as cars become more technologically advanced as have their keys and the process of replacing lost keys to a car them can be a more complex process that takes many steps and could cost you hundreds of dollars.

Depending on the kind of fob or key you have, you may choose to use a locksmith instead of a dealership for the replacement. They're often cheaper and can also save your time. You can also look online for replacement keys / fobs. They are available on sites like Amazon and are less expensive than buying a factory-made model at the dealership.

Keep calm and search for your car keys before calling a locksmith. It is important to look everywhere you went when you were in your vehicle. Check your pockets, purse or bag you carried as well as the places that aren't obvious, like the back of the headrest or in the trunk. If you're still struggling to locate your car keys, retrace your steps. You might find your keys exactly where you left. But if this doesn't work, you can always contact locksmiths for assistance.

Contact your insurance company.

It can be a hassle to lose your car keys, and it can be expensive to replace them. Fortunately, certain auto insurance companies and coverage plans cover keys that are lost and replaced. However the extent of your insurance coverage it is contingent upon whether or not the key was misplaced or stolen.

If you've lost your normal car key lost car made of steel, the process is fairly simple. Locksmiths can make an original key for you quickly and inexpensively. If your lost car keys car key is a transponder or smart key it is much more complicated. These keys are more difficult to replace, and you'll need go to the dealer to have them inserted into your car's computer system. This could be costly and may even require an extra trip to the dealership.

If your car keys are transponder or smart key, it is important to report the loss to your insurance company right away. This will not only prevent your vehicle from being stolen, but also prevent someone from using the key to start your vehicle. Furthermore, if you report the loss promptly your insurance company can take action to safeguard your vehicle and its doors from damage. Consider adding roadside assistance as part of your insurance policy if haven't done it yet. This will be helpful in the event that you lose your keys. This service is available via the mobile app of GEICO, and can be extremely useful in these scenarios.