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Replacing a Lost Car Key

Not long ago lost your car keys wasn't a major problem. You could simply get a replacement at any hardware store or in certain cases even your local car dealership.

Today however it can be extremely expensive to replace a lost car key. This article will help you determine the best course of action depending on the type of key you have.

Get a copy of the VIN.

The loss of your car keys is one of the most stressful events one can go through. Worse, it could occur while you are away on vacation or elsewhere. You can replace keys to your car using the VIN.

A locksmith or a car dealer can create you an entirely new key based on the VIN number of your vehicle. This procedure can take some time. It also requires that you present proof of ownership to them. This could be your car registration or your car insurance paperwork. As long as they don't have proof of your ownership, they won't be able to use the VIN to create the key for your vehicle.

The VIN can be found on the windshield, or on the driver's side door jamb. It can also be found on a sticker that is placed in the driver's seat or on the dashboard. The VIN contains 17 characters and can be used to identify a car. It's also possible to find the VIN in a document or certificate issued when you purchased your car.

If your car is a more recent model, it's probably equipped with an immobilizer. It uses a transponder to start your car. This is different than the traditional mechanical key that's placed in the ignition cylinder of old cars. The key might not be capable of starting your vehicle but it will still be able to open the doors and trunk.

Contact your car dealer.

It's not unusual for people to lose their car keys. The good news is that you might be able get a replacement at the dealership or from locksmith. The method you pick depends on the type key your vehicle is using.

If you are using an old-fashioned key with a double edge you can usually get a copy at the local hardware store for less than $10. If you have a more recent model, Replacing a Lost Car Key you'll require contacting your car dealer. You may have to show proof of ownership before they can issue you a new key (registration or title). Additionally the dealer needs to obtain a replacement key and program it into the immobilizer system of your vehicle, which can take several days.

If you have a brand newer model with a transponder key it is more complex. This type of key has a microchip embedded in it that communicates with the computer of your vehicle. You'll need your vehicle town to a dealership to get a new key cut and have it programmed into your car's system. This procedure can take several days and you may need to pay a towing fee on top. Some insurance policies cover these expenses.

Find an expert locksmith.

It wasn't long ago that misplacing or worse, losing your car keys was not an issue. You can always find a replacement at the dealership. As automobiles have advanced in technology, so too have their keys. The replacement process can be more complex and involves several steps and costs hundreds of dollars.

You can choose to replace your key or fob with a locksmith, rather than the dealership, depending on the kind. Most of the time, they'll be cheaper and can reduce time. You can also look for aftermarket keys and fobs. You can find them on sites such as Amazon, Replacing a Lost Car Key and they can be less expensive than buying keys made by a factory at the dealership.

Keep your cool and search for your car keys before calling locksmith. Go through every place you went when you last in your car lost key. Check your pockets, purses, or bags, and places that may not be so obvious, such as the back of the headrest or trunk. If you are still unable to locate your car keys lost replacement keys, retrace your steps. Sometimes, you'll locate your keys right where you left them. If that doesn't work, then you can always call a locksmith for help.

Contact your insurance provider.

It's frustrating to lose your car keys, and it can be costly to replace keys. Certain auto insurance companies will offer replacement keys. However the amount that your policy will cover it is contingent on whether or not the key was misplaced or stolen.

The process of replacing the lost car key is fairly simple. A locksmith can create a new key quickly and at a low cost. If your lost car key was a transponder key, or smart key the situation is more complicated. These keys are more difficult to replace, and you'll need go to the dealer in order to program them into your vehicle's computer system. This can be costly and could require an extra trip from the dealership.

It is imperative to notify your insurance company right away when your car key lost keys are equipped with a transponder. This will not only stop your vehicle from being stolen, however, it will also stop anyone from using the key to start your vehicle. In addition, if the loss is reported the loss immediately your insurance company can intervene to protect your vehicle and its doors from damage. Consider adding roadside assistance as part of your insurance policy if you haven't already. This will help when you lose your keys. This service is offered through the mobile app from GEICO and can be extremely helpful in these instances.