The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Lost Truck Key
Losing Your Truck Key? Here's What to Do
Your company can lose money and time if you lose your truck keys. It could also create unnecessary stress and slow important work.
The most obvious expense is getting an entirely new key. Older keys can be duplicated by most locksmiths, but modern automobiles require a dealer to purchase the key and then electronically connect it to the car's computer chip.
1. Retract Your Steps
Sometimes, we lose our keys without meaning to. Maybe we jump into the car to run an errand, but forget they're in the seat. Maybe we forget they're there when we return home from a long day. Keep in mind that the majority of lost items will be found eventually So don't worry about it.
Instead, retrace your steps. Begin with the last time you had keys and work backwards. You can then start your search by going backwards from the last time you remember having the keys. If the key is broken off within the ignition, Fago recommends trying to insert a small wire, like paper clip or a length of wire hanger in between the damaged part and the cylinder that controls the ignition.
3. Call a Tow Truck
If you are unable to find your keys, then it's time to call a tow truck. Before you do this, however you should find out about the companies in your area that provide both towing and auto locksmith services. Find out what truck keys made charge and what policies they have for lost keys. This will prevent you from being ripped off or treated poorly in a crisis.
The cost of a replacement key can differ widely based on the kind of vehicle you have and the type of key you're trying to replace. You can determine the amount of the cost by identifying the VIN number of your vehicle. This is usually engraved on the metal plate or on the dashboard, which is located on the driver's side. This number will be necessary for any company capable of providing the replacement key for your car or truck.
You should also determine if the loss of your keys is covered under your truck or car insurance policy. While most roadside assistance providers will cover this type of situation, their coverage will vary. Hertz, for example will not keep duplicate keys on site for vehicles that are rented from their fleet and will charge an amount to replace keys. Enterprise, for example has a flat-rate charge for renters who lose keys, no matter the location they were lost.
The best way to replace keys that have been lost is to go to your dealer. This will ensure that you get a high-quality key, and may also be the fastest way to replace it. Make sure you have the proof of ownership of your vehicle, like your title or registration papers in the event you visit a dealership.
Most hardware stores can make you a set of spare keys in the event that you lose them outside of the dealership. This will allow you to drive your car home, but it will also give you an alternative for any emergencies that might occur. If you have keys that need to be programmed to your car or truck it will usually require the visit of a dealership because these devices are not easily accessible at hardware stores.
4. Contact a Locksmith
A reputable locksmith will be able to open your vehicle without damaging the lock. They can also design a new car key on the spot. You'll save lots of money and time by not having to bring your vehicle to the dealer. The only downside is that you may need to pay a little more than what the dealer would charge.
Do some research on the locksmith before you call them. You can read reviews online, or check out the local listings of businesses. You should seek out an established company with many years of experience and offers outstanding customer service. In addition, they should be licensed and insured. They must also have the proper tools and equipment for working on the locks in your car.
Depending on the model year of your car, you may have to prove you are the owner of the vehicle. This is done by providing the registration number or title of your vehicle. This information is needed by your locksmith to order the correct key for your vehicle.
If you lose your car keys in the middle of nowhere it's recommended to keep a spare at home. There's no need to pay for towing or locksmith. If you have a spare, keep it in a secure location such as a locked box in your garage, or with a trusted friend.
It is also advisable to make an habit of placing your keys in the same location after you return home. This will help you locate them in the future. You can place them in a dish on your entry table or on a hanger near your front door. It will take about a month to develop this habit, but the results will be worth it.
In the past, people frequently had difficulty finding their car keys. Transponder chips have revolutionized this. They differ from those on credit cards and need to be programmed to function with the car's system. It is a good idea for you to call a locksmith when you own a transponder key. They can program a key to your car.