How to Get a Replacement Car Key Quickly and Easily
Lost keys can happen at the most awkward moments, like when loading groceries into your trunk. Fortunately, there are ways to get a replacement car key quickly and easily.
A locksmith's service is the most cost-effective option. A majority of them will wipe the old key off the car system, meaning that if someone steals the spare, they will not be capable of starting your car.
1. Contact a locksmith
Losing keys can be an enormous inconvenience, particularly when you're in a hurry to make an appointment. There are steps you can follow to minimize the damage and to avoid future issues.
Contacting a locksmith that specializes in car lockouts is your best option. They typically are equipped with the most up to date vehicle diagnostic and key coding equipment and can replace your lost keys faster than other locksmiths. They usually cost less than dealerships and are therefore the cheapest option.
You can also visit an area garage. This will usually be more expensive. These garages may not have the specialized key coding equipment for vehicles that a locksmith will carry as well as they are likely to have a longer waiting time than a locksmith.
Additionally, the key may occasionally fail. This occurs when the key is worn down and the teeth no longer fit inside the lock. This is a problem that occurs in older cars but can also occur in more modern models. It's a good idea to reset your key if the one you have become faulty before investing in a new one.
You could also contact your vehicle's manufacturer if you require a new key. However, this can be costly and difficult. The locksmith will need to find the VIN number on your vehicle and then create keys for you. This information is available on your vehicle's registration documents or on a sticker that is located in the door jamb for the driver and trunk lid or engine bay. You can also look it up in your insurance documents. If you do need to contact the manufacturer and request assistance, they'll most likely need your vehicle to be towed to their workshop, which could be as high as several hundred dollars in towing and labor costs. A spare key is the best method to avoid these costs.
2. Go to the Dealership
It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could just contact the dealership from which you purchased your car and they would issue you a new key on the spot. Unfortunately, modern vehicles are more expensive and replacing lost keys can be costly. This is the reason it's so important to always keep a spare key on hand and to keep it in a safe place.
If you need a new key for your traditional key that doesn't require special technology, you can buy one at any locksmith or hardware store. If you own an ignition switchblade or key fob that triggers a sensor in order to open your car's doors and also start the motor, it's best to visit your local dealership. The dealership will have the tools and equipment required to replace a fob on a key.
It's also beneficial visiting a dealer because they are familiar with the exact model and make. They'll know how to program your key and may even have the correct key in hand. This can save you time as well as money.
In addition, the dealership is also likely to be the best place to turn to for any warranty coverage on your car. This is because many warranties include things like key fob replacement and they can help you get back on the road more quickly.
You can avoid this situation by always having two keys in different locations. You won't be in a bind if you lose your car, and you'll always have a backup vehicle that can take you to the place you need to go. If you have lost your keys, it is imperative to immediately find an answer.
3. Go to Your Insurance Company
It's a nightmare scenario when you misplace your car keys and your only choice is to pay a high amount for a locksmith or dealership to replace keys. Cars have become more sophisticated with each year, which is also why the cost of replacing a lost key has gone up. In the past, you could get a key replacement that looked like the original and it was affordable.
Smart keys are currently utilized in automobiles. They are laser-cut keys that contain chips that transmit signals to your vehicle. They can be more costly to replace because they have to be paired with your vehicle. This is why it is recommended to have a backup key for your car, to avoid losing the only one you have left and needing to pay a substantial amount to replace it.
Check with your insurance company to determine if they will cover the cost of a replacement key if you have one. You must make sure your car is covered under comprehensive coverage or an add-on. The loss of the keys must be reported to the insurance company within 30 days. The insurance company will compensate you for the lost key.
You must submit the invoice or receipt for the key to allow your claim to be accepted. You will also need to submit a First Information Report (FIR) at the police station in the event that your vehicle was stolen.
Key loss isn't covered by most insurance policies due to it being considered personal property, and not part of your vehicle. However, there are some exceptions, so it is recommended to read your policy carefully prior to losing your keys to your car. Don't be worried in the event that you lose them. lost keys of car can follow the steps in this article to get them back or get a new car key. You can now enjoy driving your vehicle again!
4. Take a Tow Truck to the location.
You may have to replace keys that have been lost which could be a major problem. Depending on the car's key type, it can cost hundreds of dollars. However, there are methods to prevent this from occurring.
For instance, you could purchase an auto key replacement program that will cover the cost of replacing your lost keys. These programs also offer other benefits like roadside assistance, rental discounts and concierge services when you're traveling.
You can also purchase a spare key and keep it separately from your car keys. This will help you avoid losing your car keys if susceptible to forgetfulness. It is recommended to keep your spare key in a secure location where you are confident it is safe. For instance, a hidden storage space in your home or at work space could be a suitable place to store this.
You can also get a replacement car key from your dealer. It's costly, but the fastest method to get back on the road is with a new car key. Furthermore, you can be sure that the new key is an OEM transponder from the factory and will not be easily stolen.
Another option is to call an expert locksmith. They can design a new key for you based on your vehicle's VIN and key-cutting tools. They can also assist you to program your smart key when needed. They may cost less than a dealership, and they can also offer better customer service.
If you've lost your keys, don't panic. Take a deep breathe and try to remember where you last saw your keys. You'll likely find them in a flash. If they aren't there, call a tow truck for assistance. They have the experience technology, expertise, and personnel to handle this situation in a timely manner. Additionally, they provide towing and vehicle recovery services at reasonable rates. Moreover, they also offer emergency lockout assistance for customers. If you're stuck at an unpaved road or locked out of your vehicle, call Action Towing. They'll get you back on the road fast.