How to Replace Stolen Car Keys

There's no telling when you will lose your car keys. It's possible to lose your keys after running an errand, forgetting them in the car seat, or accidentally throwing them into a busy parking area.

There are, however, some things you can do to help make replacing your stolen car keys simpler. Based on the type of key you own, you might have to call the dealership or an auto locksmith.

Check the Vehicle Identification Number

The VIN is a unique identifier that's like the car's fingerprint; no two vehicles share the same one. It provides a wealth of information about the vehicle like the manufacturer, year and model and engine size, as well as the assembly plant, and more.

You will usually find the VIN number by looking through the paperwork of your car or online using an auto decoder, such as VINCheck. You can utilize the VIN to determine if there are recalls and warranty claims on a vehicle. It's a great way to get a more detailed background of the vehicle.

For traditional keys, it's possible to call a locksmith and get an original key for your vehicle immediately. However, for a smart key (one that activates a proximity sensor within the car, allowing you to start it by pressing a button) it is necessary go to a dealership. They've got the technology to connect your new key with the vehicle's system.

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

If you have roadside assistance coverage and you have roadside assistance, they may offer to tow your vehicle to the dealer and make new keys using the VIN number. However, it's generally more expensive to replace a stolen key at the dealer as opposed to an independent shop.

Most car dealerships have the necessary technology to connect a replacement key with your car's system. It can take a few days, particularly if the dealer needs to order the new key and have it shipped to them. This is why it's always recommended to keep a spare key in your possession, which you ought to have on hand at all times. Make copies of the keys and keep it in your wallet so you won't need to pay for replacements if your vehicle is stolen.

Contact Your Insurance Company

The amount of car thefts that result from unlocked cars with keys inside is on the rise. It's therefore important to always keep a spare. Finding and replacing keys for your car isn't as simple or affordable as it used to be. If you have extensive auto insurance, you might be eligible to make a claim for lost or stolen keys to your car under your personal property coverage. Contacting an agent to inquire whether your policy covers these expenses is the best method to determine if it does.

If you're planning to submit a claim to your insurance company, be sure you record the vehicle identification number (VIN). The VIN is located on the dashboard of the driver's side. It will help the locksmith or dealer determine how to replace stolen car keys to make an appropriate replacement key for your model.

It is also recommended to contact your insurance company to find out whether roadside assistance covers key replacement. If they do, they'll send a locksmith out to assist you in getting back on the road. However, they'll probably ask you to pay the cost-sharing.

The first step to take in the event that you lose your keys to your car is to thoroughly look over your home and work. Make sure to empty your pockets and look inside any bags you carry on you. You don't know where you may have set them down or if someone walked in your bag to grab something and then smashed keys loose. It's also worth checking your car's glove box, if you haven't yet.

If you have a standard key fob that is separate from the ignition key, it will be easy to replace through an auto locksmith or dealer. They can order the key from the manufacturer that will be connected with your vehicle. It will be more difficult if you have a "smart key". You'll need to tow your vehicle to a dealership or another shop that can reprogram your smart key. This can cost hundreds of dollars and that doesn't include towing costs.

Contact a locksmith

Nobody really thinks about how much they rely on their car keys until they lose them. If your car key stolen from house keys get stolen, it could be a huge inconvenience and a costly experience to get them replaced. But, it's important to keep in mind that there are solutions for those who have lost their car keys and require urgent help.

It's important to remain calm and thoroughly look for your car keys prior making any further moves. You can do this by looking in your bags, pockets or any other place you may have deposited them. If you've looked everywhere but still can't find them, it's time to move on to the next step.

The first thing you must do is call a locksmith. You'll need an emergency locksmith in your area who will come to you and provide a reasonable alternative to have your car keys replaced. This will help you avoid having to tow your car to the dealer, and could even be covered under your insurance plan.

When you call locksmiths, they'll require the model and make of your vehicle, as well as the year it was manufactured. This will enable them to determine the kind of key your vehicle requires. They'll also require proof of ownership of the vehicle, such as an official driver's license or registration.

If you're in a hurry there are many who will contact the dealership. However it can be extremely expensive. You will often be charged for a tow along with the dealership's labour, which can quickly become costly. Instead, you can contact a locksmith in your area and let them make an entirely new key on the spot for half the price.

Another option is to buy an Bluetooth key tracker that you can attach to your key ring. These tiny devices emit a unique signature that can be recognized by your smartphone. They're a great method to keep the track of your car keys and also to locate them if you're required to return to your car keys stolen from house.

Visit the Dealership

It's among the most traumatic feeling what to do if car key is stolen discover that your car keys are missing. It's not only a big inconvenience and anyone with the key could get into your vehicle without your permission. It is crucial to immediately report the loss to ensure that your car can't be used by someone else.

The first thought is to contact your dealership, but you might think about calling a locksmith before you make that call. The dealer may have higher overhead and will charge you more for the service, therefore it might be cheaper to call a locksmith in the long in the long run. If your car has an electronic key that activates the proximity sensor, allowing you to open the doors or start the car, only the manufacturer is able to replace it.

Search for your keys thoroughly before contacting a locksmith an auto dealer. They could have been set down somewhere or accidentally knocked them out of your bag. Take everything out of your pockets and bags and examine every surface you are able to reach. Oftentimes, people forget to look at the back of their cars being stolen with keyless entry too, so make sure to check the back of your car too.

If you still can't find your car keys, contact an auto locksmith or the dealership to request an alternative. You will need to show evidence that you own the car. Bring your registration or title, or purchase papers. If your vehicle is equipped with a standard key or electronic keys, the dealer can reprogram your ignition and locks. However, this can cost you hundreds of dollars.

If you have a spare key, contact your insurance company to determine whether or not the replacement will be covered under your insurance policy. A lot of policies cover the cost of replacing stolen car keys, however the terms and conditions vary and it is important to review your policy thoroughly. It is recommended to contact your insurance company as soon as possible, so they can be on the lookout for your keys missing and notify you if they are found.