20 Questions You Should ASK ABOUT Lost Truck Key Before Purchasing It
How to Deal With a Lost Truck Key
It's not easy to lose your truck key. It can disrupt the process and cause it to stall for hours.
It is best to keep a spare key handy and to practice good habits.
The majority of car dealerships require proof of ownership before purchasing an exchange. They will then pair the new chip to your vehicle.
Duplicate Keys
A duplicate key is your best defense against losing your car keys. Keep truck keys made in a location that is not with your regular keys, like a drawer in the kitchen or in your car's glove compartment. Also, make sure to check your car's warranty to see if key replacement is covered. It's usually cheaper than visiting the dealership. However, it can take a long time and you'll have to be prepared to drive your car to the dealer.
Call a Tow truck
The first step to getting back on the road is to call a tow truck. It is vital to locate one that has experience and offers professional services. You should take the time to do some research and save their numbers in your phone under emergency services. This will save you the frustration of having to pay for their services and the cost of a new lock and key set.
Once you have a list of potential tow truck companies, begin narrowing your choices. It is important to remember that not all tow trucks are created identical. Prices as well as experience, coverage and even the technology used to replace the most critical components will differ. Be sure to choose a company that offers services in your neighborhood or close to the route you travel to work. You can then be assured that they will be available to you in the event that you lose your keys again.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the kind of key you have will determine how much it costs to replace it. Some keys can be bought from a local locksmith, other keys may have to be ordered from the dealership (if the key is not in stock) and then paired with the car. It can cost as much as $300, including towing charges.
Always make sure you receive receipts for any tow-truck services you receive and keep copies of all correspondence you receive from them via email or mail. These documents will be essential in the event that you need to file a complaint against a company or appear in court. Keep a record of your expenses should you have to submit an appeal or go to court. This will help ensure that you are not charged for extra or unnecessary services and you will not face any misunderstandings when you settle the bill.
Call an expert locksmith
If you've lost your car keys at home, it's time to call an expert locksmith. These professionals can help you with keys for your truck that are lost, whether you have a regular key or a smart one. They can also fix ignition switches and re-key locks when they have been damaged. They have the latest tools and technology to make a new fob or key, so they can usually finish the work immediately. You'll need to supply the year and make of your vehicle, as well as evidence that you are the owner. This could be a duplicate of your registration or title.
If your vehicle is equipped with an ignition key fob you'll need the serial number, too. This will permit the locksmith to create a key that is compatible with the one you have. The technician will pair your smart key to your truck using an in-car diagnostics device if you have one.
This process can take several hours and will be contingent on the type of key you own. If you have a traditional key it is easier to replace than an advanced one.
Adding roadside assistance to your auto insurance policy can save you money if you ever lose your keys to your car. However, it might take longer than calling a locksmith and you could have to pay for any services that aren't covered under your policy.
Always leave an extra set of keys at your house or in a safe or with a trusted person to ensure you don't lose them. Also, empty your pockets, particularly if wearing a jacket, before leaving the home. You should also make it a habit to place your keys in the same location every time you leave so that they're easily accessible when you're running behind. If you have kids learn the importance of putting their car keys in a specific spot so they don't end up in the trunk of a vehicle belonging to someone else.