How to Replace Stolen Car Keys

There's no telling when you will lose your car keys. It's possible to 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, however, some ways to make replacing your deactivate stolen car key fob car keys easier. Based on the type of key you own, you might have to call the dealership or an auto locksmith.

Verify the VIN

The VIN is a unique identifier to each vehicle. No two cars being stolen with keyless entry have 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 much more.

You are able to find the VIN number by looking over the papers of your car or online with an auto decoder such as VINCheck. You can make use of the VIN to determine if there are recalls and warranty claims on a vehicle. This is a great method to learn more about the background of a vehicle.

You can call an locksmith and ask them to make a key for you in a flash for a traditional key. But, if you're looking for a smart key (one that activates a proximity sensor in the car to allow you to start it with a push) it is necessary to go to the dealership. They've got the technology to connect your new key to the vehicle's system.

You can locate the VIN on documents such as your car's title or insurance documents. The VIN should be clearly displayed on those documents. If it's not, you can look on the front of your car on the driver's side near the windshield. You can also check for it on your dashboard or on the driver's door pillar.

If you have roadside insurance and they will pay to tow your car to a dealer and make keys with the VIN number. However, it's usually more expensive to replace a stolen key at the dealer than an independent shop.

Most car dealerships are equipped with the necessary technology to pair a new key with your vehicle. It could take a few more days, particularly if the dealer has to make an order and send a new key. It's best to always have an extra car key with you. Make copies of the keys and keep it in your wallet, so you won't need to purchase replacements if your vehicle is stolen.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Car thefts caused by unlocked keyless cars being stolen with keys inside are on the rise, so it's important to ensure you have a spare key somewhere. Finding and replacing keys for your car isn't as easy or as cost-effective as it used be. If you have comprehensive insurance on your car you may be able to file claims under your personal property coverage for keys stolen or lost. The best way to find out whether or not your policy covers this type of expense is to call and speak with an insurance agent.

When you are preparing to submit a claim to your insurance company, be sure that you record your vehicle's identification number (VIN). This number is on the driver's side dashboard and can assist the locksmith or the dealership determine how to create a new replacement key for your particular model.

Contact your insurance provider and inquire if they provide roadside assistance, which includes key replacement. If so the company will send locksmiths to get you back on the road in a hurry. They'll likely require you to pay the minimum deductible.

The first thing to do when you lose your car keys is to thoroughly examine your workplace and home. Empty your pockets and go through any bags you might have. You don't know if you've left them in a place or if someone has reached into your bag and knocked out keys. If you haven't already, it's worth checking the glove box of your vehicle.

If you have a standard key fob that is separate from the ignition key, it should be simple to replace it through an authorized locksmith or dealer. They can request an OEM key that will be connected to your car. If you have an electronic key however it's more difficult. You'll have to take your vehicle to a dealer or other service shop to reprogram a key. This can cost you hundreds of dollars and that's not even including the towing fee.

Contact for a locksmith

Losing your car keys is the first time you realize just how important they are. If your car keys get stolen, it's a huge inconvenience and a expensive experience to get them replaced. There are a variety of options available to those who have lost their car keys.

It's important to remain calm and thoroughly look for your car keys prior doing anything else. This can be done by checking your pockets, bags and any other place you might have put the keys. If you have searched everywhere and are still unable to find them, it's time to go to the next step.

The first thing you should do is to contact an locksmith. You'll need to find a mobile locksmith in your area who can provide a low-cost solution to replace your car keys. This will reduce the expense of having get your car towed to the dealer and could even be covered by your insurance company.

If you contact a locksmith, they will require the model and make of your car and the year it was made. This will enable them to determine the type of key your vehicle requires. They'll also require proof that you're the owner of the vehicle, for example an official driver's license 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 towing and the cost of labor at the dealership which can quickly add up. Instead, contact a locksmith in your area and ask them to make a new car key right on the spot.

Another option is to purchase an Bluetooth key tracker to connect to your key ring. These tiny devices emit a distinctive signature which can be detected by smartphones. They're a great way 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 emotions to find out that your car keys are missing. It's not just an inconvenience, but it can also put you and anyone else who may have the keys at risk of getting into your car without permission. It is crucial to report the loss immediately to ensure that your car can't be used by anyone else.

You may first think to contact the dealership, but it's worth making contact with locksmith. A locksmith could be more cost-effective in the long term than dealers, who could charge you higher prices for the service because of their higher costs of overhead. If, however, your car has a smart lock that activates a proximity sensor and allows you to open the car door or start it and start it up, only the manufacturer is able to replace it.

Find your keys carefully before contacting a locksmith or an auto dealer. You may have accidentally ripped your keys out of your bag or put them on the floor. Examine every surface you can reach. Remove everything from your bags, pockets and purses. Many people don't look behind their vehicles So ensure you check behind your car.

If you can't locate your car keys, contact a locksmith or a dealership to obtain an additional set. They'll likely require proof that you are the owner of the vehicle and you should be ready to show your registration and title, or purchase papers. If your car has an ordinary turn-key or electronic key fob, the dealership can reprogram your locks and ignition however this could cost you hundreds of dollars.

Contact your insurer If you have an extra key to determine if the cost of a replacement is covered under your policy. A lot of policies cover the cost of replacing stolen car keys, but the terms and conditions vary and you should review your policy thoroughly. It is recommended to contact your insurance provider immediately to ensure that they are on the lookout for keys that have been lost and notify you when they're found.