12 Companies Leading The Way In How To Replace Stolen Car Keys
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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 they were on the seat, or if you accidentally drop keys in a crowded parking lot.
Thankfully, there are some ways to make replacing the keys to your car that were stolen easier. Based on the kind of key you have you may need an auto locksmith or contact your dealership.
Verify the VIN number of the vehicle.
The VIN is an identifier unique to each vehicle. There are no two cars with the same VIN. It gives you a wealth of information about the vehicle including the manufacturer, year and model of engine, size, assembly plant, and more.
You are able to find the VIN number by looking through the paperwork of your car or on the internet 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, you'll usually call a locksmith and get an entirely new key for your vehicle on the spot. For a smart key, you will need to visit a dealership. This is because it activates the proximity sensor so that you can start your vehicle with just a single touch. This is due to the fact that they have the technology needed to pair the new key with your vehicle's system.
To determine the type of vehicle you have, you can look for the VIN on your vehicle's documentation, such as its title or liability insurance documents. The VIN should be clearly printed on these documents. If not, you can look at the front of the car on the driver's side close to your windshield. You can also look for it on your dashboard or on the pillar of the driver's door.
If you have roadside assistance insurance that covers roadside assistance, they will sometimes pay to tow your car to the dealer and make an entirely new key with the help of the VIN number. However, it's generally more expensive to replace a stolen key at the dealer than an independent shop.
Most car dealerships are equipped with the technology necessary to match a new car key with your vehicle. It could take a few additional days, particularly if the dealer is required to order and ship the new key. This is why it's ideal to have a spare key which you must ensure to carry with you at all times. A good tip is to make a copy and put it in your wallet to ensure that you don't need to purchase a new key in the event of a vehicle being stolen.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Car thefts triggered by unlocked cars with keys inside are increasing, so it's important to ensure you have a spare car key. However, with more sophisticated keys for cars replacing and finding them isn't quite as simple or inexpensive as it once was. If you have comprehensive car insurance, you might be able make claims under your personal property coverage for keys that are stolen or lost. Contacting your agent to inquire whether your policy covers these expenses is the best way to find out whether it does.
If you're planning to file a claim with your insurance company, make sure that you record your vehicle's identification number (VIN). It's located on the dashboard of the driver's side and can help the locksmith or dealership 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 covers key replacement. If it does, they'll send a locksmith out to assist you in getting back on the road. However, they'll likely ask you to pay the cost-sharing.
The first thing you should do in the event that you lose your car keys is to thoroughly look over your home and work. Make sure to empty your pockets and check inside any bags you carry on you. You never know if you've left them in the wrong place or if somebody has gotten into your bag and pulled out the keys. It's also worth checking your vehicle's glove box if you don't have one yet.
It is possible to replace a standard fob, which is separate from the ignition keys, by contacting a locksmith or dealer. They can order an OEM key that can be linked with your vehicle. It's more difficult if you own an "smart key". You'll need to tow your vehicle to the dealership or another shop which can reprogram a smart key. This can cost hundreds of dollars, and that's not even counting the cost of towing.
Contact a locksmith
Nobody thinks about how much they rely on their car keys until they lose them. It can be costly and time-consuming to replace your car keys in the event that they are stolen. There are several options for those who've lost their car keys.
It's important to remain calm and search for your car keys before taking any further action. You can do this by examining your purses, pockets and any other places you might have put them down. If you've searched all over and still cannot locate them, then you're ready to move to the next step.
The first step is to call an locksmith. You'll need to find a locksmith on the move within your local area who can offer you an affordable solution to replace your car keys. This will prevent you from having to tow your car to the dealer, and could even be covered by your insurance policy.
If you contact a locksmith, they'll require the make and model of your car, as well as the year it was made. This information will help them determine which type of key you're looking for. They will also need proof that you're the owner of the vehicle, like a copyright or registration.
If you're in a hurry most people will contact the dealership. However it can be extremely expensive. You'll often have to pay for a tow as well as the cost of labor at the dealership which can quickly add up. You can instead call an area locksmith and ask them to make an entirely new car key right on the spot.
Another option is to buy an Bluetooth key tracker to connect to your key ring. These small devices emit a unique signature that can be detected by your smartphone. They're a great way to keep track of your car keys and are a great way to locate them when you're looking to return to your vehicle.
Visit the Dealership
It's one of the most depressing feeling to discover that your car keys are missing. Not only is it a major issue, but it could also put you and anyone else who could have the keys at risk of being able to enter your vehicle without your permission. If this happens, it's important to report the loss promptly so that no one can use your vehicle.
It is tempting to contact the dealership, but it's worth calling a locksmith. A locksmith could be more cost-effective in the long run than dealers, who might offer higher rates for the service because of their higher overhead. If your car has a smart-key that activates the proximity sensor to allow you to open the doors or start the car, only the manufacturer is able to replace it.
Search for your keys thoroughly before calling a locksmith or an auto dealer. They could have been set down somewhere, or perhaps accidentally ripped them out of your bag. Check under every surface you are able to reach. Take everything out of your pockets, bags and purses. Many people don't look behind their vehicles So ensure you check behind your car.
If you are still unable to locate your car keys, call a locksmith or the dealership to request a replacement. They'll likely require evidence that you're the owner of the car and will require you to show your registration or title documents, or purchase documentation. If your car is equipped with the standard key or electronic keys, the dealer can reprogram your ignition and locks. However, this can cost hundreds of dollars.
Contact your insurance company if you have an extra key and find out whether the cost of a replacement is covered under your policy. The majority of policies will cover the cost of replacing a stolen car key, however the terms and conditions vary. Be sure to go check here over the policy thoroughly. It is also a good idea to call your insurance company as soon as possible, so they can be on the lookout for keys that have been lost and notify you when they are located.