How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

Every car owner loses their keys at some point or some other time. It happens more frequently than people realize, lost car key replacement however it can be a major problem.

Fortunately, replacing lost car keys is fairly simple depending on the kind 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

The loss of your car keys lost replacement keys can be stressful, especially if it happens at a hectic time of day and you need to get somewhere. However, it's not the end of the world and there are a variety of ways you can help you find your lost car key replacement.

It is recommended to retrace your steps. This can be done by returning to the places where you've been to and taking a look around, both at the workplace and at home. This will give you an idea of the last location you remember seeing your keys and can guide you to the location they might be.

If you still can't locate your car keys, contact a locksmith or dealership nearby for assistance. They'll be able to make the new key for you and also decode the locks that are already in your vehicle, so that only the new key is able to start it. They'll also remove the old key off the system of your vehicle, so if someone does manage to get their hands on it the key, they won't be able to drive your car.

Make sure you have your VIN on hand prior to contacting an agent or locksmith. The VIN is on the driver's door panel or on the dashboard. It will allow them to know what vehicle you drive so they can create keys that are compatible with.

Making Use of Your Memory

You may be tempted to panic at the thought of losing your car keys However, try to remain calm. This will allow you to think clearly and search more deeply. Relax your eyes, close your eyes and use the power of your memory to remember the exact location you last were last able to see your car keys. If you're having difficulty remembering where they were, go back your steps again and look for any clues that could have been discovered.

If you're still having issues, contact an authorized locksmith or a dealership in your area to get help. You'll need to provide them with details about your vehicle and the security system that it uses, and they'll be able create a replacement key that can be paired with your existing security chip. They'll also provide advice on how to prevent the loss of your keys in the future.

Verify Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car were not a big issue. You could contact your local locksmith and get a new key made. As cars become more sophisticated, so have their keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and costlier. This is why it's crucial to always have a spare key on hand or at a minimum, be aware of the price the dealership for your car will charge to replace it if you lose one.

You must first determine if the key is really missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the clothing that you wore last time you used your car, 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 a purse. It is also advisable to look through the owner's manual to determine if there are specific instructions for the kind of key you have for example, how to reset it in case it becomes dead.

If you've tried all the possibilities but are still unable to locate your car keys, it's time to get an expert to get the replacement. The cost of a new one will vary from $50 to over $200, based on the kind you own. If you own a traditional key, you can get the locksmith to make a new key and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is a less expensive alternative than paying the dealer, who could charge up to $320 for a new key.

You'll need to contact your dealer and get your vehicle towing by them to allow them to purchase a new VIN-based keys for your vehicle. Then, they'll need to pair your new key with the vehicle electronically. This could be costly and a lengthy procedure. This is why it's a great idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance, so you can have the help of a professional should you ever need to!

Check Your Vehicle's Security System

No secret is that many modern vehicles are fitted with sophisticated security features to ensure that the car's contents are safe from thieves. Although these features are typically an excellent thing however, they can make keys for the car more difficult to replace lost car keys. It is still possible to obtain an alternative key for these cars, but the process is more complicated and costly. The cost of a new key will depend on the type of vehicle you have. It is important to know this before ordering one.

The easiest type of car key you can make a spare key for is the classic double-edged key that can be replaced at any hardware store, locksmith, or car dealership. It typically costs less than $10 and will be a perfect backup or to start the car in an emergency. The latest models of cars, however, utilize transponder chips inside the keys to control various aspects of the vehicle from locking and unlocking to turning on and starting. These chips must be programmed using a specific machine, which is usually only available at some dealerships.

A local locksmith can help you with a spare key for these cars. They will need the model and year of the car and other details (like your registration number or your title) to prove that they are the owner. Some locksmiths can make these keys on the spot, saving you time from needing to visit a dealer.

If you don't have a spare car, the alternative is the dealership. They are the best people to speak to since they know your car and what keys you'll need to get started with it. It can be costly, and they will not be able to assist you on the road.

To get a more affordable alternative, you can try a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices clip onto your key ring and emit a signal that you can connect to an app on your phone. The app will display the whereabouts of your keys, helping you to find them and preventing them from getting lost in the first instance!

Find a new key

Everyone loses their car keys at one time or another. It can happen in the most inconvenient of times like at a gas station or while loading groceries into your car. It's not difficult to find your keys again, but it can be stressful if don't have an extra set of keys at home or with a friend.

There are, however, options for you to get a new key in the event that you've lost the original. The procedure varies based on your type of key and the vehicle you are using.

For instance, if you have a standard key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder it's relatively simple to have a locksmith create a replacement on the spot. This is less than $200 and is quicker than purchasing a new one from a dealership.

You'll need to visit the dealer if you own remote keys that have an external transmitter. The dealer will be able find your information and send you the correct key at a cheaper price than you would pay to locksmith.

A locksmith may also be able create an alternative key with the help of the VIN of your vehicle, so you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title. This is a less expensive alternative than visiting a dealership. However, it might not be feasible if your vehicle is newer or costly.

The best way to avoid losing your keys is having an extra. Keep it in a secure location, such as your home, so you do not have to be concerned about losing it when you leave your car. Make sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, especially if wear a coat or jacket with large pockets. Don't forget to look at places you'd never reach, like the inside of your shoes if you have on runners. Double-check your trunk if you have put your keys in there. It's easy for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be taken when someone steals your vehicle.