Losing Your Truck Key? Here's What to Do
Your company could lose money and time when you lose your truck key. It can also cause stress and stop important workflow.
The most obvious cost is to purchase an entirely new key. Locksmiths can duplicate keys from the past however, for modern vehicles dealers need to purchase the key to electronically connect it to the computer chip in the car.
1. Retract your Steps
Sometimes, we misplace keys accidentally. We might forget our keys on the seat of the car when we get in to run a quick task. Or, maybe we're coming home after a long and tiring day and put them on the kitchen table where we never find them again. Remember that most items lost will eventually be found, so don't panic.
Instead, retrace your steps. Begin by going back to the last time you had the keys. This will give you a place to start your search prior to taking a frenzied approach such as hitting the door frame with a sharp object or purchasing a key extracting tool. If the key is broken off in the ignition, Fago recommends trying to insert a small wire, like paper clip or a length of wire hanger between the broken part and the cylinder that controls the ignition.
3. Call a tow truck
If you're still unable to locate your keys, it's time to contact a tow truck. Take some time to research the local companies that offer both towing and auto-locksmith services. Find out what fees they charge and the policies they have for lost keys. This will help you avoid being overcharged and mistreated during an emergency.
The cost of a replacement key will vary based on the model of your vehicle and the model you're replacing. The best method to get an idea of what it will cost is to ensure that you know your vehicle's VIN number which is typically located on the driver's side dashboard or on a metal plate within the engine bay. This number is essential for any company that is capable of providing a replacement key for your car or truck.
It is also important to determine if the loss your keys is covered by your car or truck insurance policy. Most roadside assistance providers will cover this type scenario, but the coverage is different. Hertz for instance will not keep duplicate keys on site for vehicles rented from their fleet, and will charge an additional fee to replace keys. new key for truck TheKeyLab , for example has a flat-rate charge to those who have lost keys, regardless of the location they were lost.
The best method to replace the car key that has been lost is to visit your dealer. This will ensure that you get an excellent key, and could be the most efficient method of replacing it. Be prepared to show evidence of ownership of your car, like your registration or title papers in the event you go to the dealership.
If you have lost your keys outside of the dealership, many hardware stores can make you a set of spare keys. This will allow you to drive home in your car and will also give you an extra set in case of unforeseen emergencies. If you have keys that need to be programmed to your car or truck it will usually require a trip to a dealership as these machines are not easily accessible at hardware stores.
4. Contact a locksmith
A professional locksmith will be able to unlock your car without damaging the lock. Furthermore, they can make keys for you on the spot. You will save a lot of money and time by not having to bring your vehicle to the dealer. The only drawback is that you may need to pay a little more than the dealer would charge.
Before calling a locksmith, you should do some research about the locksmith you are considering. You can read online reviews or browse the local business listings. You should choose an established company with many years of experience, and also one that offers outstanding customer service. They should also be insured and licensed. They must also have the proper equipment and tools to work on your car's locks.
Depending on the year of your vehicle, you may be required to prove that you are the owner of the vehicle. This can be done by providing the registration number or title of your vehicle. Your locksmith will need this information to order the right key for your vehicle.
If you lose your car keys in the middle of nowhere it's a good idea to have a spare at home. You won't have to pay for towing services or locksmith. If you have a spare, store it in a safe location like an unlocked box in your garage or with a trusted friend.
You should also make a habit of always putting your keys in the same location when you return home. This will make them easier to locate in the future. You could place them in a dish on your table at the entry point, or on a hook near your front door. It can take up to one month to establish this habit, but the outcomes will be worth it.
In the past, it was common for people to have difficulty finding their car keys. However this has changed with the introduction of transponder chips in all vehicles. These chips are not identical to those used on credit cards and must be programmed to work with your vehicle's system. It is a good idea for you to contact a locksmith if you own a transponder key. They can program keys for your car.