How to Get a Replacement Car Key Quickly and Easily
Lost keys can happen at the most awkward instances, like when loading groceries into your trunk. There are many ways to swiftly and easily replace your car key.
The most cost-effective option is to work with locksmith. Most locksmiths will also remove the old keys from your vehicle's system. This means that anyone who has the spare key will not be able to start your car.
1. Call a Locksmith
Losing your car keys can be a huge inconvenience especially if you're running late for an appointment. However, it's important to know there are certain steps you can take to reduce the damage and avoid future problems.
The best solution is to call an expert locksmith who is specialized in automotive locksmithing. Typically, these locksmiths have the most up-to date vehicle diagnostic and key coding equipment and can replace lost keys more quickly than other locksmiths. They are also cheaper than dealerships and can replace your keys quickly.
You can also visit a local garage. It is typically more expensive. These garages may not have the equipment for key coding in vehicles that professional locksmiths would possess, and they may have a longer wait time.
It's also important to note that sometimes the key can become faulty. This occurs when the key's teeth are worn out and cannot can fit inside the lock. This problem is common in older vehicles, but can also occur in newer ones. If your key is malfunctioning it is worth trying to reset it before you buy the replacement.
If you need a replacement key, you may contact the manufacturer of your vehicle. But, this is costly and difficult. The locksmith will need to find the VIN number of your vehicle and then create a key for you. This information is available on your vehicle's registration documents or on a sticker in the driver's door jamb, trunk lid, or engine bay. You can also look it up in your insurance records. If you need to contact the manufacturer, they are likely to require your car to be towed into their workshop. This could cost you several hundred dollars for towing and labor. A spare key is the most efficient method to avoid these costs.
2. Visit the Dealership
It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could simply call the dealership where you bought your car and they would issue you a new key right away. Today, however automobiles are more expensive than ever before and losing keys can cost a significant amount of money to replace. This is why it's crucial to always have a spare key in your possession and to keep it in a safe place.
If you require a new key for your traditional key that doesn't require special technology, you can buy one from any hardware store or locksmith. If you're using a fob or a switchblade type key that triggers a sensor in your car to open the doors and start the engine, it's recommended that you visit your dealership for help. This is because the dealer has all of the equipment and tools needed to replace fobs.
Another benefit of going to the dealership is that they are knowledgeable of the specific model and make of car. This means that they will know how to program the right key for your particular car and they may have the correct key in stock. This can save you a lot of time and also money.
The dealership can also be the best option if your car is covered by warranty. This is because warranties include things like key fob replacement, and they can help you get back on the road more quickly.
It is crucial to remember that you can stop this from happening altogether by making sure you have two keys and keeping them in different locations at all times. This will ensure that you will never be stranded without your vehicle and that you always have a backup plan to get you there when you're required to go. If you do lose your keys, it is crucial to act immediately and to find the best solution to your specific situation.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
You misplace your keys and the only way to get them replaced is to pay a substantial amount to a dealership or locksmith. The automobile has evolved with each passing year, and that is also why the cost of replacing a lost key has risen. In the past, you could find an inexpensive key replacement that was like the original and it was cheap.
Smart keys are now utilized in automobiles. They are made of key-cuts laser-cut with chips that transmit signals to your vehicle. They can be expensive to replace due to the fact that they need to be linked to your vehicle. It is important to have a spare key in the event that you lose the one you own. It can be costly to replace.
Contact your insurance provider to determine if they will cover the cost of a replacement key, if you have one. You will need to make sure that your car is covered under comprehensive insurance or a special add-on, and the loss of the key must be reported within 30 days. The insurance company will pay you for the key.
You must submit the invoice or receipt for the key in order for your claim to be considered. You must also submit a First Information Report (FIR) with the police station in case your vehicle was stolen.
A key loss is not covered by the majority of insurance policies because it's considered personal property and not a part of your vehicle. However, there are a few exceptions, so it's recommended to study your policy thoroughly prior to losing your keys to your car. If you lose keys, don't panic follow the steps listed in this article to get them or get your new car key. Then, you can drive your car once more!
4. Take a Tow Truck to the location.
It is possible to replace lost keys and this can be a major hassle. Depending on the type of key you've got for your car it could cost hundreds of dollars. However, there are ways to stop this from occurring.
For instance, you can purchase an auto key replacement program which will pay for the cost of losing your keys. These programs may also include roadside assistance, rental discounts and concierge services while traveling.
You can also purchase an extra car key and keep it away from your keys. This will help you avoid losing your car keys if you are susceptible to forgetfulness. Keep car keys lost no spare in a spot you know is safe. For example, a hidden storage space in your home or at work is a great place to store this.
Alternatively, you can attempt to obtain a brand new car key from your dealership. It's expensive but the quickest way to return to the road is with a new car key. You can also be confident that the new key will be an OEM factory transponder, and won't be stolen easily.
A locksmith who is a professional is a second option. They can create a new key for you based on your vehicle's VIN and key-cutting tools. They can also help you modify your smart key, if necessary. They can offer better service and cost less than dealerships.
If you've lost your keys, don't panic. Take a deep breathe and try to remember where you last looked for your keys. You'll likely find them within a matter of minutes. If they aren't there, call a tow truck for assistance. They have the technology, experience and experts to handle this situation quickly. They also provide affordable towing and vehicle recovery. They also offer emergency auto-lockout services for customers. If you're stuck at an unpaved road or locked out of your vehicle contact Action Towing. They can get you back on the road in no time.