How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

Every car owner loses their keys at one time or some other time. It happens more frequently than people think, but it is a huge hassle.

Fortunately the replacement of lost car keys is relatively easy, depending on what type of key you have. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership then you can get the most basic keys made at the local hardware store.

Retract Your Steps

Losing your car keys is frustrating, especially when it happens at a busy time of the day and you have to go somewhere. It's not the end of the world, and there are several ways to help you find the replacement car key you lost.

The first thing you need to do is go back to where you started. This involves going back through the places you've been and taking a look around at home and work. This will help you locate the keys, telling you when you last was able to see them.

If you are still unable to locate your car keys, call a locksmith or dealership nearby for assistance. They'll be able to make a new car key for you, and decode your locks to ensure that only the key is able to start the vehicle. They'll also erase the old key to ensure that if anyone manages to obtain it, they won't be able to drive your car.

Be sure to have your VIN in hand before contacting a dealer or locksmith. This number is located on the driver's door panel or dashboard. It will let them know what vehicle you drive so they can create keys that match.

Using Your Memory

You might be tempted to be scared of losing your car keys, but be calm. This will help you think clearly and look more deeply. Close your eyes, relax and use the power of your memory to remember where you were last able to see your car keys. If you can't remember the location of your keys then retrace your steps and look for clues.

If you're not getting any luck, contact a local locksmith or dealership to get help. You'll be required to provide information about your vehicle and the security system that it uses, and they'll be able to create a new key that will pair with your security chip. They'll also be able provide you with preventive measures to avoid future key loss.

Check Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).

A few years ago the idea of losing or misplacing your car keys wasn't a big problem. You could call your local locksmith to have a new key made. However, as cars have become more high-tech and sophisticated, so have their keys become more difficult and expensive to replace. It is essential to have an extra car key, or to be aware of the cost of replacing it in the event that you lose yours.

The first thing you need to do when you lose your car keys is to ensure that the key you lost is indeed missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the clothing you were wearing when you last used your car, looking at the back of your vehicle or even looking in places you wouldn't usually look like the inside of a shoe or a purse. Check your owner's guide to determine if it contains specific instructions on how to reset the key if it becomes dead.

If you've tried everything but you are still unable to locate your car keys, then it's time to contact a professional to get new keys. The cost of a new key will vary from $50 to more than $200, based on the kind you own. If you own an old-fashioned key, you could have the locksmith simply cut a new key and reprogram it for your vehicle. This is a cheaper alternative to paying the dealer, who may charge up to $320 for a replacement key.

You'll need to contact your dealer and request that your vehicle towed by them to allow them to order a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. Then, they'll need to pair your new key with your vehicle electronically. This could be a costly and time-consuming process. It's a great idea add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy so that you can get expert help if needed!

Make sure your vehicle's security system is working

It's not a secret that a lot of modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features that help keep the contents of the vehicle safe from theft. These features can make it more difficult to replace keys for your car. It's still possible to get an alternative key for these vehicles, but the process is more complex and expensive. The cost of a new key will vary on the type of vehicle you own. It is important to know this before ordering one.

The easiest kind of car key to create a spare key for is the traditional double-edged key that can be replaced at any hardware store, locksmith or car dealership. It typically costs less than $10 and be a perfect backup or to start the car in case of emergency. Transponder chips are employed in more recent models of car keys to control different aspects of the vehicle, including locking and unlocking, turning off and on, and other functions. The chips have to be programmed with a specific machine that is only available at certain dealerships.

If you're in need of an extra for these more sophisticated cars, a local locksmith is likely to be able. They will need to know the model and year of your car, as well as some other details to confirm that you're the owner (like your car registration number or title). Some locksmiths are able to make these keys onsite which will save you the hassle of having to go to dealers.

The dealership is the best option if you don't own an extra. They are the best place to speak to since they know the vehicle and what keys you'll need to get started with it. It can be costly and they may not be able to provide roadside assistance.

For a much more affordable alternative, try using a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices are attached to your key ring and emit a signal that you can then connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then display the whereabouts of your keys, helping you locate the keys and preventing them from being lost car key service in the first instance!

Get a new code

Everybody loses their keys at some time or another. It can happen at the most inconvenient of times, such as at a gas station or while taking groceries out of your trunk. It's not hard to find your keys again however it can be stressful if do not have an extra set of keys at home or with a buddy.

There are still ways to get a replacement key if you've lost the original. The process varies depending on your kind of key and your vehicle.

If you have an ignition lock key for a cylinder, for instance it's relatively simple to get a locksmith in your area to make a new one on the spot. This will cost less than $200 and is usually quicker than buying one from the dealership.

If you have a key fob with an external transmitter, you'll have go to the dealer. The dealer will be able to locate your information, and then send you the correct key at a cheaper price than you would pay to a locksmith.

If you have evidence of ownership like a registration or title, a locksmith may be able create a new key using your VIN. This is a less expensive alternative to going to the dealership however it's not always possible when you own a newer or more expensive car.

The best way to avoid losing your keys is having an extra. Place it in a safe location, such as your home, so that you do not have to be concerned about losing it when you leave your vehicle. Be sure to check your purses and pockets often, especially if you have an outer garment or replacing a lost car key jacket that has large pockets. Check places you might not normally reach, like the inside of your shoe if you wear runners. Also, make sure to check the trunk of your car key lost no spare if you have put keys there. It's easy to forget you put them in there and they're easily stolen if a driver leaves in your car.