What to Do When You’ve Lost Your Car Keys

Losing your car keys can be a frustrating and stressful experience. Whether you misplaced them at home or they got lost while you were out and about, it can leave you feeling stranded and helpless. In this blog post, we will guide you through the steps to take when it comes to lost car keys.

Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

The first thing to do when you realize that you have lost your car keys is to stay calm and assess the situation. Take a deep breath and try to remember the last time you had your keys. If you cannot recall where you might have misplaced them, don't panic.

Look for Spare Keys

If you have a spare key, it can save you a lot of trouble and expense. Check your home and office for any extra keys that you might have. If you have given a spare key to someone you trust, call them and ask if they can bring it to you.

Call a Locksmith

If you cannot find your spare keys, your next option is to call a locksmith. A car locksmith can save your day by cutting new keys for your car in no time at all. They'll bring their tools with them and get everything done right there on the spot. It's so much faster than having the dealership make new keys. Since they're professionals who do this kind of thing all day long, they'll be able to help with any other lock-related issues too, like installing new car locks or repairing broken locks.

Benefits of hiring a locksmith

When you lost your car keys, you can gain several benefits from hiring a locksmith. The benefits of hiring a locksmith include:

• Expertise: A professional locksmith has the knowledge and tools to open your car door without causing any damage.
• Convenience: A locksmith can come to your location, which is especially helpful if you are stranded somewhere.
• Quick turnaround: A locksmith can usually make a new set of keys within a few hours.

Call Your Insurance Company

If your car key is covered by your insurance policy, it may be worth calling your insurance company. Some policies include coverage for lost keys, which can help you avoid paying for a replacement out of pocket. Understanding insurance coverage for lost keys can save you a lot of money.

Understanding insurance coverage for lost car keys

When you are dealing with a car key replacement, there are many things to consider. You need to know what your insurance covers and how much it will cost you. The following information will help you understand your coverage options and make an informed decision about how to proceed with your claim.

• Comprehensive Coverage: Comprehensive coverage will typically cover lost or stolen car keys.
• Deductible: Depending on your policy, you may be required to pay a deductible before your insurance company covers the cost of a replacement key.
• Limits: Your insurance policy may have limits on the amount it will pay for a replacement key.

Contact the Dealership

If your car is still under warranty, you may be able to get a replacement key from the dealership. However, this can be an expensive option, and it may take several days for the dealership to get a new key made.

Consider the Cost and Convenience of Each Option

When deciding what to do when you have lost your car keys, it's essential to consider the cost and convenience of each option. Calling a locksmith can be the most cost-effective and convenient option, especially if you are stranded somewhere. However, if you have comprehensive insurance coverage, it may be worth contacting your insurance company first.

Tips to Avoid Losing Your Car Keys

Losing your car keys can be a hassle, but there are a few things you can do to prevent them from happening in the first place. Here are some tips to help you avoid losing your car keys:

• Create a designated spot for your keys: By designating a spot for your keys, you can ensure that they are always in the same place, making them easier to find.
• Use a keychain: Attaching a keychain to your keys can make them more visible and easier to find.
• Make copies of your keys: By making copies of your keys and keeping them in a safe place, you can avoid being stranded if you misplace your primary keys.
• Be mindful of where you place your keys: When you are out and about, be mindful of where you place your keys. Avoid leaving them in a public area where they can be easily stolen or misplaced.
• Invest in a tracking device: If you tend to misplace your keys frequently, investing in a tracking device can help you locate them quickly.

How much does it cost to replace a lost car key?

Replacing a lost car key can be an expensive ordeal. This is because of the high cost of programming and cutting new keys, as well as the need to replace parts in your ignition lock if they've been damaged by wear and tear over time. The cost of replacing a lost car key depends on several factors:

• Your car's make and model
• Where you live
• Whether or not your vehicle has remote entry
• How quickly you need the job done

How long does it take to make a new car key?

It takes around an hour to make a new car key. The process begins with the technician taking the key you gave them, as well as your vehicle’s VIN, and entering that information into the system.

The locksmith will then take a look at the information we have on file for your vehicle, including its make and model, year of manufacture, and any other information specific to your car. This is the information used to determine which type of key you need. For example, if you have a Ford Taurus from 1992, it will be a different type of key than one made for a 2008 Honda Civic. Once the information needed is completed, the locksmith will then start making your new car key.

Can a locksmith make a key for any car?

Yes, a locksmith can make a key for any car. All the locksmith needs to do is determine the type of ignition used in the car and then find out what type of lock mechanism it has. If they have access to the car, they can take measurements to determine which key will fit into its ignition and lock mechanism. If they don't have access to the car, they can use their tools to remove the door panel and look at the ignition and lock mechanism from there.

Overall, losing your car keys can be a frustrating and stressful experience, but it's important to stay calm and assess the situation. Whether you have spare keys or need to call a locksmith, there are options available to help you get back on the road. By understanding your insurance coverage and the cost and convenience of each option, you can make an informed decision about what to do when you've lost your car keys. Remember to be mindful of where you place your keys, and consider investing in a tracking device to avoid misplacing them in the future.

Do you need a replacement for Lost Car Keys?

Key on Spot Locksmith is here to help with all of your automotive locksmith needs. From key replacement and ignition repair to rekeying locks and making new keys for your business, we've got all bases covered. We offer services in Philadelphia, PA, and the nearby areas. Give us a call today at (267) 296-1026 or head over to our website for more information about how we can help make sure your life goes smoothly from here on out!