What To Do (and What Not To Do) After Losing Your Car Keys
A step-by-step guide for Nashville drivers who just lost their car keys — including how to avoid the most expensive mistake.
1. Actually look — properly
The most common outcome of a 'lost keys' call is that the keys turn up. Check pockets, laundry, the gym bag, the car itself (jammed in a door lock or fallen between the seats), and the last store you visited.
2. Do not tow yet
If your keys are truly gone, do not immediately tow to the dealership. A tow to a Nashville dealer typically starts at $100+, and the dealer will still need a scheduled appointment. A mobile locksmith can originate a new key at your vehicle's current location for less total money and much less time.
3. Gather your paperwork
You will need a driver's license matching the registration on file. If the vehicle is in someone else's name, have them present or reachable by phone to authorise service.
4. Have the VIN ready
Photograph the VIN on the windshield or door-jamb sticker. Sharing it lets us cut your new key exactly to code before we arrive.
5. Consider a spare while we are there
The single cheapest car key you will ever buy is a spare made while you have a working key. If you are already paying for an all-keys-lost job, get a spare programmed the same visit so this never happens again.
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