Published on September 13, 2023. EST READ TIME: 3 MIN
Cars today are loaded with features, some fancy and some basic. The basic features are the ones that are found in most cars of all segments and also these are something everyone wants. One such feature that comes in most modern cars is that of a keyless entry. These allow the car to be locked and unlocked by being in the vicinity of the car keys.
Now the question comes what happens to the feature in case of lost car keys? This can result in a problem as without the key you do not have access to your car. When you lose the keys, you need to get replacement car keys but this requires a process to be followed. Many people think that getting a replacement from the car company is a big task, but this is not true as this is comparatively simpler as long as you know what needs to be done.
Usually, the car company gives two keys and thus, if you lose one you have the other one. But there can be situations where both are not there and getting a replacement is the only solution.
What to do if you have lost your car keys?
Once you have realised that you have lost your car keys, there are some important things you need to do.
1. Check if your car insurance policy covers lost car keys. This will not be covered in third party insurance but in own damage car insurance or a comprehensive car insurance policy. This will help you to pay for the key. This could be an add-on cover for which you would have paid extra. There are many add-on covers one can opt for and this one is a must-have like zero depreciation car insurance .
2. If you are stranded somewhere, you should check for the breakdown cover in your car insurance policy. This will ensure you get help from the insurer.
3. Contact the dealer of the car company as this ensures you get a proper key and will work as properly as the old one. This will also support all the features given by the manufacturers.
4. If you do not have access to a dealership immediately, you can call the local locksmith who specialises in car keys. They will help in deactivating the old key and giving a new one which can be programmed.
What do you need to get a replacement car key?
There is a process that one needs to follow to be able to get a replacement key from the company. Once you follow all the steps carefully, this becomes an easy way and you can get it easily without much issue. Let us list them down for ease of understanding:
1. Check
Before giving in the request, always double-check where you went and where possibly you could have lost the keys. Sometimes, you can find them in the most unexpected places. Going through the process and stressing without checking is not a good idea.
2. Get all information
Before you go to file the request for a new car key, ensure you have all the information that you will need for the same. You should have the model, make, and year of manufacture of the car. All this information is available in your Registration Certificate. Apart from this, you will need a Vehicle Identification Number. If you do not know this, you can easily locate it on the door jamb of the driver’s side or on the dashboard.
3. Get in touch with the dealership or manufacturer
As soon as you have all the information, you should get in touch with the closest dealer of your car. You will need to give them all the details and explain the concern about lost car keys.
4. Provide identity and ownership proof
Before you can get replacement car keys you will need to prove the car ownership and your identity to the dealer. The dealer will confirm the car ownership with the papers and take identity proof like a driver's license or aadhaar card.
5. Choose the replacement option
You will need to get a transponder key or a standard key as a replacement. The former needs to be programmed for the car as per the security system whereas the latter is a new key based on ownership and other details.
How much does it cost to replace lost car keys?
The process to get a replacement for the lost keys for your car is not very tough but it comes at a cost. There are several factors which affect the cost of the replacement key in India. Some of these are the model and make of the car and also the type of key. On average, the cost varies from Rs. 1500 to Rs. 35,000. The more premium the car, the more expensive the key and thus, it is important to have the lost key add-on insurance cover in your car insurance policy. The price that you pay also depends on the programming, key cutting and if something else is needed in the new key. Some dealerships also charge for urgent delivery of keys and the location will also have an impact on the cost.
FAQs: Lost car keys
1. Can you get a duplicate for lost car keys?
Yes, you can get a duplicate car key but it depends on the key type and also the security system of the car. A dealership or a professional locksmith should be able to help you.
2. Can damaged car keys be repaired?
If there is minor damage or there is an issue with the key fob, it is possible to repair the car keys. But if there is an issue in the transponder or there is a lot of damage, it might get tough to repair it and replacement will be needed.
Conclusion
Getting a replacement key is not a big deal in India. All that is needed is a systematic approach and also checking if there is coverage in the car insurance policy. You should get in touch with a professional locksmith or the dealership so that you get something that is not difficult to use and does not hamper the usage of the car. Always give complete information at the time of getting a replacement key and also compare costs from different sources to ensure you pay the correct price and are not overcharged. Knowing all options will always help you make a well-informed decision.
Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.
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