What happens if I lose my car keys?

Author: Yesenia Leuschke  |  Last update: Sunday, June 15, 2025

If you don't have an extra key, you'll likely need to get a replacement at a dealership and provide proof of ownership, according to Carfax. The dealership will then program a new key to work with your car. This may take a few days, during which they will need to hold onto the car.

What do you do if you lost your car keys?

Contact a Locksmith: If you cannot find the key, a locksmith can create a new key for you. They may need to access your vehicle's lock or ignition system. Visit the Dealership: If your car uses a transponder key or keyless entry system, it's often best to go to the dealership.

Can AutoZone make a key without the original?

Though AutoZone no longer offers key cutting, you can still get assistance with your vehicle needs with service such as battery testing, fix finder, and other services at your local AutoZone store.

Does car insurance cover lost keys?

Typically, no. Roadside assistance coverage can make things easier if your keys are lost or stolen, but the cost of replacing them usually falls to you. Comprehensive coverage will cover a stolen car, including its keys, but it won't cover lost keys.

What is the price to replace lost car keys?

Costs of replacing a car key

Replacing a basic key can cost as little as $10, whereas replacing a smart key fob can run up to $500, according to Carfax. The determining factor is likely how specialized the process of replacing the key is and whether it can only be done by a dealership.

Lost Your Car Keys and Have No Spare? (Here is What To Do)

Can my employer charge me for lost keys?

No, your employer cannot legally make such a deduction from your wages if, by reason of mistake or accident a cash shortage, breakage, or loss of company property/equipment occurs.

Should I report lost car keys?

If you suspect your car keys were stolen, you should file a police report and work on getting your locks changed. Here are a few steps you can take if you've lost your house or car keys. Retrace your steps. If you think you've lost your keys, you should first retrace your steps.

How long does it take to replace a lost car key?

Somewhere in the 20 to 30 minute range.

This varies between vehicles and some could take up to an hour to get a car key replacement cut and programmed. Most modern car keys and fobs today have transponder chips in them which may require the key or fob to be programmed to the vehicle.

Can I claim for lost car keys?

If your keys have been lost or stolen, you should call your insurer and they'll ask you for the details. If your claim is accepted, your insurer will cover the cost of replacing your keys and provide you with any other benefits your policy comes with (such as a courtesy car).

How can I get a key made for a car without a spare?

Call a Locksmith or Roadside Assistance

They will drive to you and make a car key on the spot, even if you don't have the original. If you need a more technologically advanced key, like a key fob, key fob with switchblade key, transponder key or smart key, call roadside assistance instead of a locksmith.

Can you make a key with the VIN number?

Most vehicles in the United States from 1990 and up have key codes that are saved on file with the manufactures. As long as you can prove ownership of your vehicle a car key can be made with the Vehicle Identification Number aka VIN number. Once a key code is pulled from the VIN number a car key can be cut.

Can a minute key make car keys?

Looking for a car key replacement near you? Minute Key keeps you in the driver seat with easy, affordable car key duplication. From purchasing to programming, we've got all of your automotive key needs covered.

What happens if you lose your car keys and have no spare?

You can call your car dealership or call an automotive locksmith. The first method isn't an easy one since it will take you longer. To get a replacement car key quickly and on-site, you need a locksmith. Using a mobile service van, the technician can reach out to you and replace your key without delay.

What to do if you've lost your keys?

First thing you need to do when you discover you have lost your keys, is to inform your local police authority and give a description of your lost keys, including any notable features such as a keyring. This will help you get your keys back if they are found and handed in.

How do I get a replacement key for my car if its broken?

You need a car-key-replacement expert, and an automotive locksmith will usually travel to wherever your car is stranded, and, in most cases, make you a new key on the spot, often within an hour.

How expensive is it to replace a car key?

Replacement usually costs around $125. Transponder key. A computer chip-based ignition key that leverages a wireless connection to validate that the key has the proper code to turn on the vehicle. This added security measure comes with increased technology and, as a result, an increased cost at $200-$250 to replace.

How much does it cost if you lose all your car keys?

How much does it cost to replace car keys? The cost to replace the key can range from as low as £25 to well over £200, the price will depend on the following factors: Vehicle Model – The make, model & age of the vehicle you have, this will include what immobiliser system the vehicle has.

How do you start a car if you lost the key fob?

There are several methods you can try to start your car without a key fob in case of an emergency: the screwdriver-hammer method, hotwiring the engine, or looking for the red coil wire. You can also try to use the mobile app (if applicable) or locate the secret switch that's usually located in the steering column.

Should I be worried if I lose my car keys?

Losing your car keys is a stressful experience for any driver, so it is important to keep calm and sort the problem as soon as possible. If you don't have a spare set, then it can mean that you are locked out of your vehicle. However, if you believe that it has been stolen, contact the police immediately.

Does my car insurance cover lost car keys?

Most car insurance policies will not cover lost keys. The specifics will vary depending on your own insurance policy, but in general keys do not fall under comprehensive or collision coverage. While expensive to replace, most modern car key fobs will not cost more than your comprehensive coverage's deductible.

Can lost car keys be tracked?

Most car keys cannot be tracked unless they have a tracker on the key ring. Some keys from newer, more modern cars have GPS tracking devices incorporated into the car keys and the car, allowing you to track them, but this is very rare, so it's unlikely you should rely on your car to have this feature.

Can I be fired for losing a key?

Many employees worry that they will be fired for losing their work key. While it is true that some employers may take this action, it is not always the case. In most instances, misplacing these is considered to be a minor infraction and will not result in termination.

How much should I charge for a lost key?

Average Cost Estimates

Traditional keys – Replacement costs typically range from $25 to $100. There's no programming involved, although you may need to have AutoZone, a locksmith, or dealership cut the key for you. Transponder keys – Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $250 for a transponder key replacement.

How do I claim a lost key?

Here you go:
  1. Inform the insurance company. ...
  2. In case of theft, a Police FIR is necessary to register the claim.
  3. You can get your car keys replaced or repaired. ...
  4. Submit the claim form along with the required documents. ...
  5. In case of a cashless claim, the settlement is done directly with the garage by the insurance company.

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