20 Myths About How To Replace Stolen Car Keys: Busted

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How to Replace Stolen Car Keys

There's no way to tell when you'll lose your car keys. You may lose your keys while running an errand, forgetting them in the car seat, or accidentally dropping them in an area of parking that is crowded.

There are a few things you can do to make the replacement of your keys to your car a lot more simple. Depending on the type of key you have you might require an auto locksmith or to contact your dealership.

Verify the vehicle identification number

The VIN is a unique identifier that's like the car's fingerprint; no two vehicles have the same one. The VIN can provide a wealth of information about a car, including its manufacturer, model, year, assembly plant and more.

You will usually locate the VIN number by looking over the paperwork of your car or by using an auto decoder, such as VINCheck. You can also use the VIN number to find recalls or warranty claims on a car. It's an excellent way to get a more detailed history of the vehicle.

For traditional keys, you'll usually contact a locksmith to create an entirely new key for your car right there and then. However, if you want the smart key (one that activates a proximity sensor within the car, allowing you to start it by pressing a button), you'll need to go to the dealership. This is because they've got the necessary technology to pair the new key to your vehicle's system.

To determine your vehicle's type, you can look for the VIN on your vehicle's documents like the title or liability insurance documents. These documents should clearly display the VIN. If not, look at the front of your car on the driver’s side near your windshield. You can also look for it on the dashboard or driver's door pillar.

If you have roadside protection, they may pay to bring your vehicle to the dealer and then create keys using the VIN number. It's typically more expensive to replace a lost key at the dealership than at an independent shop.

Most car dealerships are outfitted with the technology necessary to connect a new key to your vehicle. It could take a few additional days, especially if a dealer is required to make an order and send an entirely new key. This is why it's always ideal to have a spare key, which you must ensure to carry with you at all times. One good idea is to make a copy of the key and keep it in your wallet, so that you don't have to purchase a new key in the event of a vehicle being stolen.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Car thefts caused by unlocked cars with keys inside are increasing, so it's important to ensure that you have a spare key somewhere. However, with more advanced keys for cars getting replaced isn't quite as simple or inexpensive as it once was. If you have extensive insurance for your vehicle, you may be in a position to make a claim for stolen or lost car keys under your personal property insurance. Calling an agent to ask if your policy covers such expenses is the best way to find out whether it does.

If you're planning to make a claim with your insurance company, be sure you record the vehicle identification number (VIN). This number is on the driver's side dashboard and can aid the locksmith or dealer determine how to create a new replacement key for your specific model.

It is also recommended to contact your insurance company to find out whether roadside assistance includes key replacement. If they do it, they'll send a locksmith to get you back on the road as quickly as possible. However, they'll likely ask you to pay a minimum amount.

The first thing to do in the event that you lose your car keys is to thoroughly look over your home and work. Take out your pockets and look in every bag you have. You don't know where you may have left them, or if someone walked in your bag to grab something, and then knocked the keys loose. It's important to check your car's glove box, if you haven't yet.

It's possible to replace a standard fob, which is separate from the ignition keys and can be done by contacting a locksmith dealer. They can request an OEM key that will be connected to your car. It will be more difficult if you own a "smart key". You'll need to take your vehicle to a dealer or another repair shop to reprogram a key. It will cost you hundreds of dollars, and that doesn't even include the towing cost.

Call for a locksmith

Nobody really thinks about just how much they rely on their car keys until they lose them. If your car keys get stolen, it could be a huge inconvenience and a costly experience to get them replaced. There are several options for those who have lost their car keys.

Before taking any further step, you must remain calm and look for your car keys. This can be accomplished by looking through your bags, pockets and any other places you might have put the keys. If you've looked everywhere but still can't find them, it's time to move to the next step.

The first thing you need to do is contact an locksmith. You'll need a mobile locksmith who can come to you and provide an affordable option for getting the car key replaced. This will save you the expense of having to get your car towed to the dealer and could even be covered by your insurance company.

If you contact a locksmith, they will need to know the model and make of your car, as well as the year of its manufacture. This information will allow them to determine the kind of key your vehicle requires. They'll also require evidence that you are the owner of the vehicle, like the copyright or registration.

Many people will contact the dealership when they're in a hurry, but this can be expensive. You'll often have to pay for a tow and get more info the dealer's labor, which can quickly add up. Instead, you can contact a locksmith in your area and let them create an entirely new key in a matter of minutes for half as much.

Another option is to buy a Bluetooth key tracker that you can attach to your key ring. These small devices emit a unique signature which can be detected by a smartphone. They're a great method to keep the track of your car keys and can be used to locate them if you need to get back into your vehicle.

Visit the Dealership

It's one of the most depressing feelings to realize that your car keys are missing. It's not just an issue, but it could also put you and anyone else who may be carrying the key at risk of getting into your car without your permission. If this happens, it's important to report the loss right promptly to ensure that no one else can use your vehicle.

You might initially think to contact the dealership, but it is worth considering making contact with locksmith. A locksmith could be more cost-effective in the long run than dealers, who might offer higher rates for the service due to their higher cost of operation. If your car comes with a smart-key that activates the proximity sensor, allowing you to open the doors or start the car only the manufacturer is able to replace it.

Before contacting an auto locksmith or a dealership, search thoroughly for your car keys. You may have accidentally ripped your keys out of your bag or set them down. Check under every surface you can reach. Take everything out of your bags, pockets and purses. Many people forget to check behind their cars and so make sure you do.

If you are unable to find your car keys, call an auto locksmith or a dealership to get an additional set. You will need to show proof that you own the vehicle. Bring your registration, title, or purchase documents. If your car has an electronic or standard turn-key key fob, the dealer can modify your locks and ignition however this could cost you hundreds of dollars.

Contact your insurance company if you have an extra key and determine if the cost of a replacement is covered under your policy. The majority of policies will cover the cost of replacing a stolen vehicle key, however the terms and conditions vary. Make sure you review the policy carefully. Contacting your insurance company is a good idea so that they will keep an eye out for your lost keys, and alert you when they are found.