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What to do if you lose your car keys?

Are you locked out of your vehicle? Don’t worry There’s a method to return to driving when you’ve lost the keys to your car

Lost car keys could be a major hassle, and in the end, it could be a staggeringly costly process to find replacement keys. There’s more than one option to gain access to your vehicle if your keys are lost or, in the event that you’re smart in your choices you could save some cash. Here are five strategies for getting keys back that were stolen or lost as well as some helpful tips for making the procedure as simple as you can.

The first step is to write the VIN number of your car. This is useful for both parts and dealer to locate replacement keys. For newer vehicles it will be located on a plaque placed on the dashboard, and is visible through the windshield. For older vehicles check your vehicle’s Log book (V5C).

Purchase a new set keys from an authorized dealer

This is, of course, the most expensive and time-consuming option, however it assures you’ll receive the replacement keys that will unlock your carthe first time. You can expect to pay up to £200 and, based on the local dealer’s is equipped with the right tools and know-how the wait time could be as long as 10 , working days.

Locate a locksmith for your car

You can locate your closest locksmith for your automobile by doing an easy Google search or looking up the Master Locksmiths Association website. Automotive locksmiths can supply key replacements for all vehicles swiftly, and also changing your car’s programming to stop the keys you have already purchased from being used again in the future in the event that they are stolen by thieves.

Additionally that automotive locksmiths are usually mobile, which means they are able to arrive at your damaged motor and give it new keys to your driveway, provided you can prove the ownership of the vehicle as well as an ID with a photo.

Make a claim on your insurance policy

Certain insurance companies offer key protection in their standard policies, and can help you save a significant personal cost. Based on the insurer you choose and the amount of coverage you are paying for the service you receive can be anything from a straightforward key replacement, to a complete aftercare plan, including the use of a rental car while waiting for your key to be fixed.

Make sure you read the small print of your policy. If filing a claim for keys lost on your insurance could affect the no-claims discount it might be more financially to purchase keys replacement from your personal pockets to keep your car insurance rates lower.

Have a spare key cut at the corner store

If you’ve lost all keys to your vehicle the advice given here won’t be useful. If you’ve has one key in your possession and are looking for an extra key in case of emergency (like having it stolen) you should consider going to a key cutter. Typically, they will provide key replacements in just a few hours and provide significantly lower prices that franchised retailers.

Contact your breakdown assistance

Certain breakdown service providers provide an option for mobile key replacement and typically the services offered by them will be included in their coverage. This option is faster and less expensive than going to an auto dealer and works particularly well for people who reside in rural areas where locksmiths for mobile vehicles aren’t as widespread.