How to Avoid Overpaying For Lost Car Key Replacement
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing or losing your car keys wasn't a big issue. But today automobiles have become more technologically advanced and replacing keys lost can be a hassle and quite expensive.
In the beginning, you must repeat your steps. Then take a thorough look through your pockets, bags and other areas where they might have been. The next step is to call a locksmith.
Retract your Steps
If your RV steps don't retract/extend, first check to ensure that the engine is shut off. It's possible that the electronic components in your steps have failed and they're ignoring instructions from the ignition key to retract when doors are closed. If this is the situation, simply flipping the switch to "auto" or "on" and you'll be able to fix the issue.
Be sure to look around the steps for any items that might be stuck. Then, thoroughly clean the steps and lubricate them. Listen to the sound and figure out whether it's coming from the motor, or the gear.
You can program some steps to your car yourself. Follow the directions included with your keys or the owner's guide for more information. Sometimes, the procedure involves closing and opening the doors, turning lights and other electronics on and off, and then pressing the appropriate buttons.
Call Your Insurance
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing the car key wasn't a big deal. It could be annoying, but in the event that you had a spare you were all set. It's not as easy to find your keys in modern vehicles. It's important to be prepared for this situation.
If you have roadside assistance coverage, you can call your insurance company and they will send a locksmith to get you back into your vehicle. The cost to do this will depend on the type of key your car uses. You can also check the owner's manual to find out the procedure for reprogramming new keys to work with your vehicle. The key needs to be programmed into the car's computer system. This can be accomplished by closing and opening doors, switching lights and other electronic devices on and off, or by pressing a few buttons.
It's also a good idea to check all the obvious places to keep your keys. You may have put them in a purse, pocket or in the trunk of your car. If you're still unable locate them, it's recommended to contact your dealer. The dealer can create a key for you and then program it into your vehicle. They'll need proof of ownership as well as the original key to accomplish this, and the price of a new key will differ from dealership to dealer.
The main point is that the more sophisticated and high-tech the car's entry system is, the more expensive it will be to replace a lost key. Older mechanical keys are generally the cheapest to replace as they're not as complicated. If your car is a recent model that has a smart key, fob or remote lock and unlock function, you'll most likely have to file an insurance claim for the cost of replacement.
If auto car key replacement 're not able to file a claim for car key replacement because of the policy or coverage and other warranties or insurance policies might be able to cover the cost. Make sure to record your vehicle identification number (VIN) to find someone that can assist you. It is usually located on the driver's side dashboard or in the windshield, and you may be able to look for it in the owner's manual or in the section on information about your vehicle in your insurance policy.
Visit the dealer
The loss of car keys isn't just costly, but also very frustrating. They can make your entire day turn upside down and leave you retracing your steps to see if they fell into the crack that you didn't even notice. In these situations, it is best to call your car's dealer or manufacturer. They'll be able provide you with a new key faster than any other service provider.
Based on the model you have, the type of key you have and your roadside assistance plan, dealerships may differ in the speed at which they can make a brand new key for you. They will have the best knowledge about your vehicle and will be able to make use of genuine parts for your vehicle.
If you own an older vehicle with the traditional double-edged key you can still have an alternative made at any hardware store, provided you have the key code or VIN number to be used as a reference. If you have an older model that has a key fob that locks your car and then starts it at the dealership, only the dealer is able to create an appropriate replacement.
You'll need to go in person and present proof of ownership, as well as a valid photo ID and the 17-digit number of your vehicle identification (VIN) to get a new key created for your vehicle. If you're not able to go to the dealer for any reason, your roadside assistance insurance should be able to pay to have someone visit your location and create copies for you. However, that can take some time, and you'll need to pay the replacement cost while waiting. It's important to have an extra key in your possession in these scenarios.
Contact a locksmith
It's more costly to lose your keys to your car than it used to be. Based on the model and make of your vehicle, getting replacement keys can cost you up to $500. There are several ways to reduce the cost of replacing your car key. Making contact with a Brooklyn locksmith is the first step. You can then be confident that the job will get completed correctly.
A locksmith will be able to find an alternative key quicker than a dealership and probably at a lower price. They'll also be able to cut and program your new key right on the spot, unlike a dealership who may need to purchase the key from the manufacturer.
Be sure to identify the year model, make, and year of your car before you contact. You'll also need to provide proof ownership like your registration or title. Be prepared with this information prior to losing your keys will save time and money.
The most commonly used kind of car key is the classic metal key. The key is fitted into an ignition cylinder and allows the start of the engine. This type of key can be changed by the majority of locksmiths for cars but they'll need to obtain a copy of the key code for your car from the manufacturer. Most modern vehicles have this code, however older keys might not.
The remote-control car key can be used to open your doors and start the engine. They emit an electronic signal that is recognized by the car however, they only be used if they're within the range of your car. This kind of key is able to be replaced by locksmiths who are experts or a car dealer however, it's better to have a backup key and keep it somewhere safe.
If you don't have a spare, the last option is to make use of the Bluetooth tracker to locate your key. These tiny devices cost only couple of dollars, and they attach to your keyring. The device will send a message to your phone when the key is in the range, so you can find it.