How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

It's a fact of life that we all lose car keys at some point. It happens more than people think however it can be a major hassle.

Fortunately replacing lost car keys car keys lost is fairly simple, 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

It's a hassle to lose your car keys, especially if it happens during a hectic time of the day when you need to be somewhere. It's not the end of the world and there are a variety of steps you can take to help you locate your lost car key replacement.

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

If you're still having trouble finding your car keys, call an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area for help. They'll be able to create a new key for you, and decode the locks on your vehicle so that only the new key will be able to start it. They'll also erase the old key out of your vehicle's system, meaning that even if someone does obtain it, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.

Be sure to have your VIN in hand prior to contacting an agent or locksmith. This is a number that's found on your driver's side dashboard or door panel and will allow them to know what car you own so they can design keys that match.

Using Your Memory

You might be tempted to be scared of losing your car keys however, try to remain calm. This will allow you to think clearly and search more thoroughly. Relax your eyes, close your eyes and use the power of your memory to remember where you saw your car keys last. If you're having trouble remembering where they were, retrace your steps once more and look for any clues that might have surfaced.

If you're still having trouble, contact an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area for help. You'll be required to provide information about your vehicle and the security system it has and they'll be able make a replacement key that will pair with your existing security chip. They'll also be able to provide you with steps to prevent key loss.

Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

In the past the idea of losing or misplacing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. Contact your local locksmith to obtain a new car key. But as cars have become more advanced as well, so have keys become more difficult and keys lost expensive to replace lost key. It's essential to have an extra car key or to know the cost of a replacement in the event that you lose yours.

The first thing to do when you lose your car keys is to make sure that the lost key is not actually missing. Check the pockets in your pants or jacket along with the backseat and other places you might not normally look for, like the inside of a purse or shoe. Go through the owner's manual to determine if there are any specific instructions on how to reset the key if it becomes dead.

If you've done everything you can and still can't find your car keys, you should contact a professional to get a new key. The cost of a new one will range from $50 to $200, based on the kind you own. If you own an old-fashioned key, you can get the locksmith to cut a new one and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is a less expensive alternative to paying a dealer, who could charge up to $320 for a replacement key.

For a key fob, or switchblade keys, you'll need to call your dealership and have the car towed in for them to order a new key for your vehicle that is based on the VIN. Then, they'll need to connect the new key with your vehicle's electronic key which could be a costly and time-consuming process. This is why it's a good idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you will have the assistance of an expert if you ever require it!

Make sure your vehicle's security is checked.

No secret is that many modern vehicles are fitted with advanced security features that protect the vehicle's content from theft. While these features are usually a good thing however, they can make keys for cars more difficult to replace. It's still possible to get an alternative key for these cars, but the process is more complex and expensive. The exact cost will differ depending on the kind of key your vehicle has, and this is something you need to be aware of prior to having one made.

The easiest type of car key you can create a spare key for is the classic double-edged key which can be re-used at any hardware store, locksmith, or car dealership. It will typically cost less than $10 and work just fine as a backup or to start the car in the event of an emergency. The latest models of cars, however use transponder chips in the keys to control various aspects of the vehicle, from locking and unlocking to turning on and off. These chips need to be programmed using a specific machine, which is generally only available through certain dealerships.

A locksmith in your area can assist you if you need a spare key for these cars. They'll need the model and year of the car and other information (like your registration number or your title) to confirm that they are the owner. Some locksmiths can make keys on site, saving you time from having to visit an agent.

If you do not have a spare, the next best option is the dealership. They are the best people to ask because they know your car and what keys you need to start it. This can be costly, however, and they will not be available for roadside assistance.

If you want a less expensive alternative, you can try a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices are attached to your key ring and emit a signal that you can transmit to an app on your phone. The app will display the whereabouts of your keys, helping you to find the keys and preventing them from getting lost in the first instance!

Find a New Key

Every car owner loses their keys at one time or another. It can happen in the most inconvenient of times such as at a petrol station or while taking groceries out of your trunk. It's not difficult to locate your keys however it is stressful if you don't have a spare set of keys at home or with a friend.

There are, however, options to obtain an alternative key even if you've lost your original. The process varies depending on your type of key and the vehicle you are using.

For instance, if have a standard key that is inserted into an ignition lock cylinder, it's relatively simple to have a locksmith create an immediate replacement. This option is less than $200 and can be completed much faster than buying one from a dealership.

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

A locksmith may also be able create a replacement key by using your car's VIN, as you have evidence of ownership like your registration or title. This is a cheaper alternative to visiting a dealership however it's not always possible if you own a newer or more expensive vehicle.

The best way to prevent losing your keys is having an extra. Place it in a secure location, like your home, so that you don't need to think about leaving it somewhere when you leave your vehicle. It's also important to inspect your purses and pockets regularly especially if you're wearing a coat or jacket with large pockets. Be sure to check places you wouldn't usually reach, such as the inside of your shoe if you wear runners. Double-check your trunk if you have left the keys there. It's easy to forget that you put them in there and they can easily get taken away if someone else takes off in your vehicle.