How to Replace Stolen Car Keys

You never know when you'll lose your keys to your car. It could happen after running an errand, and then forgetting them on the seat, or when you accidentally throw them in a busy parking lot.

There are, however, some ways you can make replacing your stolen car keys simpler. Based on the type of key you have, you may need to contact the dealership or an auto locksmith.

Verify the VIN

The VIN is an individual identifier, similar to the car's fingerprint. No two vehicles have the same one. It tells you a lot of information about the my car key was stolen like its manufacturer, year and model of engine, size, assembly plant, and much more.

You are able to locate the VIN number by looking over the paperwork of your car or on the internet 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 way to know more about the background of a vehicle.

For traditional keys, you'll usually call a locksmith to make a new key for your vehicle right there and then. However, if you want a smart key (one that activates a proximity sensor within the car to allow you to start it by pressing a button), you'll need go to the dealer. They have the technology to pair your new key with the vehicle's security system.

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

If you have roadside insurance that covers roadside repairs, they can bring your vehicle to the dealer and then create keys with the VIN number. It's more expensive to replace a key with a dealership than an independent shop.

Most keyless car stolen dealerships are equipped with the necessary technology to match a new car key with your vehicle. It could take a few days particularly if the dealer needs to purchase a new key and then get it delivered to them. It is best to keep an extra car key on hand. One good idea is to create a duplicate and keep it in your wallet to ensure that you don't need to pay for a replacement if the vehicle is stolen.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Car thefts that are caused by locked cars stolen with keyless entry with keys inside are on the rise It's essential to make sure you always have a spare key somewhere. However, with more sophisticated car keys getting replaced isn't as easy or cost-effective as it once was. If you have extensive auto insurance, you may be in a position to claim for stolen or lost keys to your vehicle under your personal property coverage. The best way to determine whether your policy covers this type of expense is to contact and speak to an insurance representative.

When you are preparing to submit a claim to your insurance company, make sure to record the vehicle identification number (VIN). It's located on the dashboard of the driver's side and will assist the locksmith or the dealership determine the best method to create an appropriate replacement key for your specific model.

It is also advisable to contact your insurance provider to inquire whether roadside assistance covers key replacement. If it does the company will send a locksmith to get you back on the road in a hurry. However, they'll probably ask you to pay a deductible.

If you have lost your keys, the first thing you must do is thoroughly inspect your house and office. Take out your pockets and go through all bags you may have. You don't know where you may have set them down or if someone reached inside your bag to grab something, and then knocked the keys loose. If you haven't before, you should check the glove box in your car.

If you have a standard fob that's distinct from the ignition key, it will be easy to replace through an authorized locksmith or dealer. They can request the key from the manufacturer that will be connected to your car. If you own an electronic key however it's more difficult. You'll need to take your vehicle to the dealership or another service shop which can reprogram a smart key. This can cost hundreds of dollars and that doesn't include towing costs.

Call a Locksmith

Losing your car keys is the first time you realize how important they are. It can be expensive and inconvenient to replace your car keys in the event that they are stolen. However, it's important to be aware of the solutions for those who have lost their car keys and require urgent help.

It is important to remain calm and look for your car keys prior to taking any further action. You can do this by looking in your bags, pockets and any other places you might have left them. If you have searched all over and still cannot find them, then it's time to go to the next step.

The first step is to call the locksmith. You'll need a mobile locksmith who will come to you and provide an affordable alternative to have your car key replaced. This will save you the expense of having to have your car towed to the dealer and could even be covered by your insurance company.

You'll need to inform the locksmith the model, make and year of your vehicle when you contact them. This information will help them determine the type of key you're looking for. They'll also require evidence that you are the owner of the vehicle, like a driver's license or registration.

If you're in a rush most people will contact the dealership. However this can be quite expensive. It's common to pay for a tow as well as the cost of labor at the dealership which can quickly add up. Instead, you can contact a local locksmith and have them design a new key in a matter of minutes for half as much.

A Bluetooth key tracker can be affixed to your keyring. These small devices emit a distinct signature that can be recognized by your smartphone. These devices are a great tool to keep track of your car keys. They can also be used to find them when you want to access your car.

Visit the Dealership

It's one of the worst feelings to realize that your car keys are missing. It's not just an enormous inconvenience, but it can also put you and anyone else who could be carrying the key at risk of gaining entry to your car without permission. It is essential to report the loss immediately so that your vehicle can't be used by someone else.

Your first inclination may be to call your dealership, but you might be thinking about calling a locksmith before you do this. A locksmith may be more affordable in the long run than dealers, who could charge you higher prices for the service because of their higher overhead. If, however, your car has a smart lock that triggers a proximity sensor and allows you to open the door or start it up and start it up, only the manufacturer is able to replace the key.

Search for your keys thoroughly before calling a locksmith or a dealership. You may have put them down in a place or accidentally ripped them out of your bag. Take everything out of your bags and pockets and examine every surface you are able to reach. Many people don't check behind their cars, so make sure you check.

If you are unable to find your car keys, contact a locksmith or a dealer to get a new set. They will likely need proof that you are the owner of the car and will require you to provide your registration and title, or purchase papers. If your car has an electronic or standard turn-key key fob, a dealership can reprogram your ignition and locks however, this can cost you hundreds of dollars.

If you have a spare car key stolen (More hints) key, contact your insurer to see whether the replacement is covered by your insurance policy. Many policies do cover the replacement of stolen car keys, however the terms and conditions are different, so be sure to read your policy carefully. Contacting your insurance company an excellent idea to ensure that they will keep an eye out for keys missing from your car, and alert you when they are found.