7 Simple Tricks To Rocking Your How To Replace Stolen Car Keys
Wiki Article
How to Replace Stolen Car Keys
There's no way to predict when you'll lose your keys to your car. You could lose your keys while running an errand, putting them in the car seat, or accidentally throwing them into an area of parking that is crowded.
Thankfully, there are some ways you can make replacing the keys to your car that were stolen easier. Depending on the type of key that you have, you might require an auto locksmith or contact your dealership.
Check the Vehicle Identification Number
The VIN is an identifier unique to each vehicle. No two cars have the exact VIN. It tells you a lot of information about the car, such as its manufacturer, year and model of engine, size, assembly plant, and more.
You can usually locate the VIN number by looking through the papers of your car or by using an auto decoder such as VINCheck. You can also use the VIN number to determine if there are recalls or warranty claims on a car. This is a great method to find out more about the history of a car.
You can contact a locksmith and have them create a key for you immediately in the event that you require a standard key. However, if you want the smart key (one that activates a proximity sensor inside the car to allow you to start it with a button), you'll need go to the dealer. This is because they have the necessary technology to connect the new key to your vehicle's system.
You can locate the VIN on documents such as your vehicle's title or insurance papers. The VIN should be clearly printed on those documents. If it's not you can look at the front of your vehicle on the driver's side close to the windshield. You can also look for it on the dashboard or the driver's door pillar.
If you have roadside assistance coverage, they can sometimes pay to tow your vehicle to the dealer and make a new key using the VIN number. It's typically more expensive to replace a stolen key at a dealer than an independent shop.
Most car dealerships are equipped with the latest technology needed to match a new car key with your vehicle. It can take a few days, particularly if the dealer needs to purchase the new key and have it shipped to them. It is recommended to always carry a spare car key in your possession. Make a copy of the key and keep it in your wallet so you don't have to pay for replacements in the event that your vehicle is stolen.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Car thefts triggered by unlocked cars with keys inside are on the rise and it's crucial to ensure you have a spare car key. However, with the advancement of keys for cars, finding and replacing them isn't as simple or cost-effective as it once was. If you have comprehensive auto insurance, you might be in a position to claim for lost or stolen car keys under your personal property insurance. Calling an agent to ask whether your policy covers these expenses is the best method to determine if it does.
If you are planning to file a claim with your insurance company, be sure you record the vehicle identification number (VIN). This number is located on the dashboard of the driver's side. It will assist the locksmith or dealer determine how to create the replacement key for your specific model.
Contact your insurance company and inquire if they provide roadside assistance that includes key replacement. If it does, they'll dispatch locksmiths to get you back on the road quickly. They'll likely ask you to pay the minimum deductible.
If you've lost your keys the first thing you must do is to thoroughly examine your house and office. Make sure you empty your pockets and check in any bags you have on you. You don't know if you've left them somewhere or if someone has reached into your bag and pulled out the keys. If you haven't done so already, it's worth checking the glove box of your vehicle.
If you have a standard fob separate from the ignition key, it should be simple to replace it through a locksmith or dealer. You can order a new key from the manufacturer which will be then paired with your car. It will be more difficult if you have an "smart key". You'll have to tow your vehicle to a dealer or another service shop to reprogram a key. This will cost hundreds of dollars, and that's not even including the towing fee.
Contact a locksmith
The moment you lose your car keys is the first time you realize just how important they are. It can be expensive and inconvenient to replace your car keys in the event that they are stolen. There are many options for those who've lost their car keys.
Before taking any further action, it's important to remain calm and look for your car keys. This can be done by checking your pockets, bags and any other place you may have put the keys. If you have searched for hours and can't find them, it's time to go to the next step.
The first thing you need to do is contact an locksmith. You'll need an emergency locksmith in your area that can provide you with a reasonable solution to replace your car keys. This will reduce the expense of having get your car towed to the dealership, and could even be covered by your insurance company.
When you call a locksmith, they'll need to know the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the year it was manufactured. This information will help them determine the type of key your vehicle requires. They will need evidence that you are the owner of the vehicle including your copyright or registration.
Many people choose to call the dealership if they're in a hurry, however, this can be expensive. It's common to pay for a tow and the dealership's labor which can add up quickly. Instead, you can call a locksmith in your area and ask them to make a new car key on the spot.
A Bluetooth key tracker can be connected to your keyring. These small devices emit a unique signature that can be detected by your smartphone. They're a great method to keep track of your car keys and are a great way to locate them when you're looking to return to your car.
Visit the Dealership
It's among the most traumatic feeling to discover that your car keys are missing. It's not just a huge inconvenience and anyone with keys could gain access to your vehicle without permission. If this happens, it's crucial to report the loss right away to ensure that no one else can use your vehicle.
Your first inclination may be to contact your dealer however, you may think about making contact with a locksmith before you make this call. Locksmiths can be more cost-effective in the long run than dealers, who could offer higher rates for the service due to their higher costs of overhead. If your car comes with a smart-key that activates the proximity sensor to allow you to open the door or start the car, only the manufacturer is able to replace it.
Before contacting an auto locksmith or a dealership, more info make sure you search for your keys to your car. They could have been set down somewhere or accidentally knocked them out of your bag. Examine every surface you can reach. Remove everything from your bags, pockets and purses. Many people don't look behind their vehicles So make sure you do.
If you still can't find the car keys, call a locksmith or the dealership to get an alternative. They'll likely require proof that you are the owner of the vehicle, so be prepared to provide your registration, title or purchase paperwork. If your car is equipped with the standard key or electronic keys the dealer will reprogram your ignition and locks. But, this could cost hundreds of dollars.
If you have an extra key, call your insurer to see whether the replacement will be covered under your insurance policy. Many policies do cover the cost of replacing stolen vehicle keys, but the terms and conditions differ and you should read your policy carefully. Calling your insurance company is recommended so that they will keep an eye out for keys that have been lost and notify you when they are found.