How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

It's a fact of life that every car owner loses their keys at some time. It happens more often than people think, however, and it can be a big problem.

It is possible to replace lost car keys dependent on the type of key that you have. The most basic keys can usually be made at the local hardware store if you can provide the VIN number or evidence of ownership.

Retract your steps

It's a hassle to lose your car keys, particularly when it happens during a hectic period of time when you have to go somewhere. However, it's not the end of the world and there are a variety of ways to help you locate the replacement car key you lost.

The first thing you need to do is to retrace your steps. This involves going back through the places you've been to and looking around at home as well as at work. This will give you a good idea of where you've seen your keys and could lead you to where they could be.

If you still can't locate your car keys, you can call an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area for assistance. They will be able create an entirely new car key for you, and also decode the locks you have in place so that only the key is able to start the car. They will also delete the old key, so that if anyone does manage to get it, they aren't able to drive your car.

Before you call a locksmith or dealer ensure you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) handy. This is a number that's located on your driver's side door panel or dashboard and will inform them of the vehicle you own so that they can create an appropriate key for your vehicle.

Utilizing Your Memory

If you've lost your car keys, you may be frightened. Try to remain calm. This will allow you to think clearly and search more thoroughly. Relax your eyes and close them. Then, use your memory to recall the last time you saw your keys. If you're having difficulty remembering where they were, retrace your steps once more and look for any clues that may have been discovered.

If you are still having issues, contact a locksmith or dealership near you for assistance. You'll need to provide them with specific details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll then be able create keys that match your existing security chip. They'll also be able to guide you on preventive measures to avoid future key loss.

Verify Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).

It wasn't long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a huge problem. You could call your local locksmith to get a new key made. As cars become more sophisticated, so have their keys. This makes them harder to replace and also more expensive. This is why it's essential to keep a spare key on hand, or at least know how much the dealership for your car will charge for a replacement if you lose one.

It is important to first find out if the key really missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the pants or jacket that you wore last time you used your car, looking inside the back seat of your vehicle as well as checking out areas you don't normally see like the inside of a shoe or purse. Check your owner's guide to determine if it contains any specific instructions on how to reset your key in case it stops working.

If you've checked everything and still can't locate your car keys, it is time to contact an expert to get a new one. The cost of a new key will range from $50 to $200, based on the kind you own. If you have an old-fashioned key, you can have the locksmith simply cut a new one and reprogram it for your vehicle. This is a less expensive option than the dealer's prices which can be as much as $320 to replace keys that have been lost car keys replacement.

If you want a key fob or switchblade key, you'll have to call your dealership and have your car towing in to purchase a new key for your vehicle based on the VIN. Then, they'll need to connect the new key to your vehicle's electronic key, which is a costly and lengthy process. It's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy so that you can get expert help if needed!

Check Your Vehicle's Security System

It's not a secret that a lot of modern cars have fancy security features that help keep the vehicle's contents safe from thieves. While these features are usually beneficial but they can also make the car keys more difficult to replace. It's still possible to get an alternative key for these cars, but the process is more complicated and expensive. The cost of the new key will be contingent on the kind of vehicle you have. You should be aware of this prior to purchasing one.

The easiest type of car key to make a spare key for is the classic double-edged key that can be replaced at any hardware store, locksmith or car dealership. The price is typically less than $10 and will work perfectly as a backup key to start your car in a dire situation. Transponder chips are used in more recent models of car keys to control different aspects of the vehicle, such as locking and unlocking, turning off and on, and other functions. The chips have to be programmed by a special machine, which is usually only available at certain dealerships.

A locksmith near you can assist you if you need an extra key for these cars. They will need to know the year and model of your vehicle and other details to confirm that you are the owner (like your car registration number or title). Some locksmiths can make these keys on-site, saving you time from visiting an agent.

If you don't have a spare car, the next best option is the dealership. They will be the most knowledgeable about your car's model and the keys needed to get it started. This can be expensive however, and they will not be open for assistance at the roadside.

If you want a less expensive alternative, you can try a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices connect to your key ring, and emit signals that you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app can then show you where your keys are located, helping you find them and preventing them from being lost in the first place!

Get a new code

Everyone loses their car keys at one point or another. It can happen in the most awkward of places, such as at a petrol station or while loading groceries into your car. It is not difficult to find your keys again, but it can be stressful if do not have a spare set of keys at home or with a companion.

There are ways to get a new key if you've lost the original. The procedure varies based on your kind of key and your vehicle.

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

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

If you have evidence of ownership like an official title or registration, replace lost car keys a locksmith may be able create an entirely new key with your VIN. This is a less expensive alternative to going to a dealership however it's not always possible if you own a newer or more expensive vehicle.

It is best to have a spare set of keys. Keep it in a secure location, like your home, so that you do not have to be concerned about losing it when you leave your vehicle. Make sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, particularly if you have coats or jackets with large pockets. Don't forget to look at places you wouldn't normally reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you have on runners. Also, make sure to double-check the trunk of your car, if you've put keys there. It's easy for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be taken when someone drives away in your vehicle.