Lost Car Keys: What To Do
Losing your car keys can be a stressful experience, especially if you’re in a hurry or far from home. It’s important to stay calm and know the steps to take to get back on the road quickly. In this guide, we’ll explain what to do if you lose your car keys, including the options available for getting a new set of keys.
How to Handle Being Locked Out of Your Car
Losing your car keys is an inconvenience, to say the least. Besides disrupting your plans, it can also pose safety risks if you’re in an unfamiliar or unsafe area. Taking immediate action is crucial to get yourself back on the road quickly.
It’s essential to not panic so that you can approach this situation rationally. Assess your surroundings to make sure you are in a safe location. If necessary, move to a nearby public place like a cafe or shop so that you have a secure spot to call for help.
If you have a spare key at home, contact a trusted friend or family member so that they can bring it to you. If you can’t access your spare key or don’t have one, it’s time to call for professional help.
What to Do If You Lose Your Car Keys
When faced with a lost car key, you will need to get a replacement car key. A replacement car key is a duplicate key made to match your vehicle’s original key. It works by being cut and programmed to your car’s specific lock and ignition system.
Replacing your car key requires specific information. You will need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN), vehicle make, model, and year, and proof of identity. You may also need to provide proof of ownership. This documentation ensures that the new key is issued to the rightful owner.
Options for Getting a New Set of Keys
Here are some different options for replacing lost car keys:
Contact an Automotive Locksmith
An auto locksmith is your best option for quickly and easily replacing your lost car key. They use specialized tools and software to cut and program a new key for your vehicle. By accessing your car’s lock and key code, they can ensure the new key works perfectly.
Automotive locksmiths are the convenient solution. They often have mobile technicians, allowing them to come to you and replace the keys on the spot. This saves you the hassle of towing your car to a dealership or waiting for an appointment.
At Car Keys Solutions, we pride ourselves on our efficient key replacement service. Our skilled technicians are ready to assist you wherever you are. Trust us to get you back on the road with minimal delay.
Purchase from a Dealer
Another option is to purchase a new key from your car dealer. Dealers have access to the exact specifications and programming needed for your car, guaranteeing they can provide a replacement key that will work with your vehicle
Getting a key from a dealer can be time-consuming. You might need to wait a few days for the new key to be ready, which can be problematic if your car is stranded in an unfamiliar area. It’s also common for dealers to charge high prices for replacement keys, making this option more expensive.
Claim Through Your Insurance
Some car insurance policies cover the cost of a lost auto key. Check with your insurance provider to see if this is included in your policy. If it is, filing a claim can help offset the cost of a new key.
Keep in mind that making a claim might affect your insurance premiums. It’s important to weigh the cost of the deductible against the cost of replacing the key out-of-pocket.
Costs of Replacing Lost Keys
Lost car keys replacement cost UK will depend on various factors. Your vehicle’s make and model will impact the car key replacement prices. For example, an Audi Q7 2005-2013 remote car key replacement can cost £250, while a Mercedes E-Class 2014-2020 remote car key can cost £360.
The type of key you need will also impact the replacement price. For example, a Ford Fiesta 2009-2016 remote key can cost £155, while a manual key for this same car can cost £125.
Whether you choose to replace your key with a dealer or auto locksmith will also impact the costs. Locksmiths can offer competitive pricing with a quicker service. For example, a dealer may charge £330 and take 7-10 days to replace a key for a Mercedes A-Class (2013), while an auto locksmith might offer the same key for £180 with same-day service.
FAQs
Can I track my car keys?
Unfortunately, most car keys do not have tracking capabilities unless you attach a tracking device. These devices can help you locate your keys using a smartphone app.
How do I deactivate a lost car key?
To deactivate a lost car key, contact your car dealer or a professional locksmith. They can reprogram your car’s system to prevent the lost key from being used. This is crucial for ensuring your car’s security.
What do I do if both keys are lost?
If you lose both keys, your best option is to contact an automotive locksmith or your car dealer. They can create and program new keys for you.
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