In your efforts to multitask, you notice that you misplaced your four-wheeler keys. As common as this situation is, losing your car keys can disrupt your routine and put a dent in your plans for the day.
As a smart vehicle owner, you should ideally carry a spare set of keys with you and a car key replacement insurance policy that can be of great help in times such as these.
However, if you don’t have an alternative set of keys, things can begin to get challenging. But fret not! You can still fix the problem. You can order a car key replacement and store it in a safer place. However, the process will depend on the type of car that you have and the key it uses.
Listed below are a few steps that you can follow in such a situation:
- Determine the key type
- Figure out the ideal car key replacement method, in keeping with your vehicle and budget
- Keep necessary information ready, including the make of the car and model
- Test the new set of keys to make sure everything is in order
Table of Contents
Determine the type of car keys
Conventional keys
These are standardized for older four-wheelers or their basic models. Replacing this kind of a key is relatively inexpensive and easy, considering it does not need any electronic re-programming. Should you have a spare set of keys, you can consider duplicating them at a local locksmith store, hardware store, or any key-cutting kiosk.
Key fobs
These are used for keyless and remote entry, relying on frequencies to lock and unlock the doors to your car. All you have to do is press the button on the key fob. Though these keys are paired and unique to your vehicle, a significant advantage is that even if you lose it, you can start your car using the traditional set of keys.
Transponder keys
Also called chip keys, this variant is an ignition key by design, and comes with a computer chip in it. These are electronically paired to your four-wheeler’s ignition set-up. Therefore, in case you lose them, starting your vehicle can be problematic. That’s because only a key that is programmed to match your car can start the ignition.
Smart keys
With these proximity-based keys, you can unlock the car door without having to push a button physically. Once your four-wheeler detects the smart key, you can unlock the door and start your car. In case you lose your smart key, you will have to take your car to the dealership and request a second set of keys — something that can result in a hefty replacement cost.
How much will car key replacement cost?
Usually, it will be more expensive if you get your car key replacement done at your dealership store. However, in this case, you will not have to do any troubleshooting as the dealership will take prompt care of the replacement. Remember that smart keys can only be replaced by your dealership store; but other key types have other options.
Calling a locksmith will be a cheaper alternative. But you will have to make sure that the locksmith services the exact key that your car uses.
No matter the alternative you choose, you must keep necessary documents – car make, model number, vehicle identification number (VIN), car registration number, license – handy.
Are you losing your keys frequently?
In case you frequently misplace your car keys, it is advisable to get a spare set of keys at the earliest. It can save you from being stranded, while saving towing and car key replacement costs as well.
It is also prudent to invest in a car key replacement insurance plan. For instance, key replacement insurance from Bajaj Finserv pocket insurance and subscriptions can come to your rescue in an emergency – theft/loss of keys to your car or residence.
Besides an easy claims process, this key replacement plan offers you comprehensive coverage for the expenses you incur on creating a duplicate set of keys. Further, you also get recompensed for the labour costs of the locksmith. Moreover, if the job takes more than 24 hours and you have a rented car, this car key replacement insurance will reimburse the rentals.
