How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

It's a fact that we all lose car keys at some time. It happens more frequently than people realize, however, and it can be a major problem.

It is possible to replace lost car keys, depending on the type of key you own. The most basic keys can be made at a local hardware store if you have the VIN number or proof of ownership.

Retract your steps

It's frustrating to lose your car keys, particularly if it happens during a busy time of the day when you have to go somewhere. Fortunately, it's not the end of the world, and there are several ways you can help you find your car key replacement.

The first thing you need to do is retrace your steps. This involves going back through the places you've visited and looking around at home as well as at work. This will help you find the keys by telling you where you last seen them.

If you're unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps you'll want to call a local locksmith or dealership for assistance. They'll be able to create an entirely new car key for you, and will decode your locks to ensure that only the key will be able to start the car. They'll also remove the old key off your vehicle's system, so should someone manage to gain access to it and steal it, they won't be allowed to drive your car.

Before you contact an expert locksmith or dealer, ensure you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) in your pocket. It's located on your driver's dashboard or door, and it will let them know which car you own so they can create an appropriate key for your vehicle.

Using Your Memory

You might be tempted to fear losing your car keys however, be calm. This will allow you to think clearly and search thoroughly. Close your eyes, relax and make use of your memory to remember the location where you last saw your car keys last. If you can't remember where you put your keys you were, go back to the steps and search for clues.

If you're having no luck, contact a local locksmith or dealership for assistance. You'll have to provide them with details about your car and the security system that it uses, and they'll create a replacement key that will pair with your existing security chip. They'll also provide you with steps to prevent key loss.

Verify Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

In the past, misplacing-or losing-your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could call your local locksmith and have a new key made. But as cars have become more advanced as well, so have keys, making them more difficult and expensive to replace. That's why it's important to keep an extra key in your car or at the very least know the amount the dealership for your car will charge to replace it if you lose one.

The first thing you need to do when you lose your car keys is to confirm that the key you lost is actually missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the clothing you wore when you last used your car, or looking in the backseat of your vehicle or even looking in places that you would not normally look like the inside of a shoe or purse. Check your owner's guide to see if it has any special instructions on how to reset your key if it is dead.

If you've tried everything and still can't locate your car keys, it's time to call an expert for a new one. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional, key fob or switchblade), it will cost you anything from $50 to $200 to buy a new one. If you have a standard key, the locksmith will typically cut a new key and reprogram it to match your car. This is a much cheaper alternative than paying the dealer, who could charge up to $320 for a new key.

You'll need to call your dealer and have your vehicle towing for them to purchase a new VIN-based keys for your vehicle. Then, they'll need to pair your new key to the vehicle electronically. This could be a costly and time-consuming procedure. This is why it's a great idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance, so you will have the assistance of a professional if you ever require it!

Check the security system of your car.

It's not a secret that many modern cars come with fancy security features that are designed to keep the vehicle's contents safe from thieves. These features can make it more difficult to replace car keys. However, it's not impossible to obtain a new key for these cars although the process is more involved and expensive than it was in the past. The exact cost will vary based on the type of key your car is using, and you must be aware of before getting one made.

The classic car key with a double edge can be converted into a spare by visiting any hardware store or dealership. It is usually less than $10 and work just fine as a backup or to start the car in case of emergency. Transponder chips are used in the latest models of keys to control various aspects of the vehicle, like locking and unlocking, switching off and on, as well as other functions. These chips need to be programmed with a specific machine that is available only at certain dealerships.

If you're looking to create an additional spare for these advanced models of cars, a local locksmith will be able to assist. They will require the model and year of the car and other information (like your registration number or title) to confirm that they are the owner. Certain locksmiths can create these keys on the spot and save you the hassle of visiting dealers.

The dealership is your best option if there isn't an extra. They are the best place to talk to because they are familiar with the vehicle and what keys you need to start it. This can be expensive however, local and they won't be available for assistance on the road.

To get a more affordable alternative, try using a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices attach to your key ring and emit a signal that you can then connect to an app on your phone. The app will then inform you where your keys are, aiding you in finding them and preventing them from getting lost car key service in the first place!

Get a New Key

Everyone loses their car keys at one point or another. It happens at the most inconvenient times, while at a gas station or loading groceries into your trunk. Although it's simple to locate your keys again, it can be a very stressful situation in the event that you don't have a spare set at home or with friends.

There are still ways to get a replacement key if you've lost the original. The process is different based on your type of key and vehicle.

If you have an ignition lock cylinder key, for example it's fairly easy to have a local locksmith make a new one immediately. This will cost less than $200 and is quicker than purchasing a new one from a dealer.

You'll need to go to the dealer if you have an electronic remote with an external transmitter. The dealership will be able locate your information and send you the right key for a much lower price than for a locksmith.

If you have evidence of ownership like an official title or registration, a locksmith may be able create a new key using your VIN. This is a much cheaper alternative than going to a dealer. However, it might not be feasible when your car is older or expensive.

The best way to prevent losing your keys is by having an extra. Keep it in a secure location, such as your home, so you don't have to worry about losing it if you leave your car. It's also important to inspect your purses and pockets regularly, especially if you wear a jacket or coat with large pockets. Don't forget to check places you'd never reach, like the inside of your shoes if you are on runners. Also, make sure to double-check the trunk of your car if you have put the keys down there. It's easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They could be stolen when someone steals your car.