How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

It's a fact of life that we all lose car keys at some time. It happens more often than people think, but it can be a big trouble.

It is possible to replace lost car keys depending on the type of key that you own. The most basic keys can be made at an area hardware store, provided you provide the VIN number or evidence of ownership.

Retract Your Steps

It's extremely frustrating to lose your car keys, particularly if it happens during a hectic period of the day when you need to be somewhere. However, it's not the end of the world and there are a variety of ways you can help you locate your lost car key replacement.

You should first retrace all your steps. This can be done by returning to the places where you've been to and taking a look around, at both your home and work. This will give you an idea of where you remember seeing your keys and can help you find where they might be.

If you still can't locate your car keys, contact a locksmith or a dealership in your area for assistance. They'll be able to create a new key for you, and decode the existing locks on your vehicle so that only the new key will be able to start it. They'll also remove the old key so that if anyone does manage to get it, they won't be able to drive your car.

Before you call an expert locksmith or dealer, make sure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) in your pocket. This is a number that's found on your driver's side door panel or dashboard and will inform them of the car you own so they can design an appropriate key for your vehicle.

Memory Exercises

If you lose your car keys, you might be frightened. However, try to remain calm. This will allow you to think clearly and search thoroughly. Close your eyes, relax and use the power of your memory to recall the exact location you last saw your car keys last. If you're struggling to remember the exact location, retrace your steps again and look for any clues that may have surfaced.

If you're having no luck try contacting a locksmith in your area or dealer for assistance. You'll be required to provide details about your car and the security system it has and they'll be able create a replacement key that is compatible with your existing security chip. They'll also be able to advise you on ways to prevent future key loss.

Make sure you have a valid vehicle Identification (VIN).

It wasn't long ago that losing keys to your car was not a major problem. You could contact your local locksmith and have a new key made. As cars become more sophisticated and so have their keys. This makes them harder to replace and costlier. That's why it's important to always have a spare key on hand, or at least be aware of the price the dealership for your car will charge for a replacement if you lose one.

The first thing to do when you lose a car key is to ensure that the key you lost keys to car no spare is not actually missing. Check the pockets of your pants or jacket along with the backseat and other places you might not normally look like the inside of your shoe or 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 done everything you can and still haven't found your car keys, lost car key replacement then it's time to call an expert to request new keys. The cost of a new key will vary from $50 to over $200 based on the type you own. If you own a traditional key, the locksmith will usually cut a new one and change it's programming to fit your vehicle. This is a less expensive alternative than paying the dealer, who may charge up to $320 for a new key.

If you want a key fob or switchblade key, you'll need to contact your dealer and have the car towed in for them to order a new key for your vehicle in accordance with the VIN. They will then have to pair your new key with the vehicle electronically. This can be a costly and lengthy procedure. It's a great idea to include Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to your policy so that you can get expert help if needed!

Check your vehicle's security system

No secret is that many modern cars are equipped with sophisticated security features to protect the vehicle's content from thieves. While these security features are generally an excellent thing however, they can make the car keys more difficult to replace. It is still possible to obtain an alternative key for these cars, but the process is more difficult and expensive. The cost of the new key will be contingent on the kind of vehicle you own. It is essential to know this before ordering one.

The most straightforward kind of car key to make a spare for is the classic double-edged car key which can be re-used at any locksmith, hardware store, or car dealership. The cost is usually less than $10, and it is perfect as a backup key or to start your car in an emergency situation. The latest models of automobiles, however, incorporate transponder chips into the keys to control various aspects of the vehicle including locking and unlocking to turning on and starting. These chips need to be programmed by a special machine, which is typically only available at certain dealerships.

A local locksmith can help you with an extra key for these cars. They will need the model and year of the vehicle as well as other details (like your registration number or title) to verify that they are the owner. Some locksmiths can make these keys on-site, saving you time from needing to visit dealers.

The dealership is your best option if you don't own an extra. They will be the most familiar with your specific car and the keys that are needed to get it started. This can be costly however, and they won't be able to provide assistance at the roadside.

For a much more affordable 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 smartphone. The app can then show you where your keys are, helping you find them and preventing them from being lost in the first place!

Get a new code

Everyone loses their keys at some time or another. It can happen in the most awkward of places like at a gasstation or when loading groceries into your trunk. It's not difficult to find your keys again, but it is stressful if you do not have a spare set of keys at home or with a buddy.

There are, however, options to obtain new keys even if you've lost your original. The process depends on the type of key you have and the vehicle you are using.

If you have an ignition lock cylinder key, for example, it is relatively easy to have a locksmith local to make a replacement on the spot. This is less than $200, and it's usually quicker than buying one from a dealership.

If you have a key fob equipped with an external transmitter, however, you'll need go to the dealer. The dealer will be able locate your information and send you the right key at a cheaper price than for locksmith.

A locksmith may also be able to create a replacement key using your car's VIN, as long as you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title. This is a much cheaper alternative than visiting a dealership. However, it might not be a possibility in the case of a vehicle that is older or expensive.

The best method to avoid losing your keys is having an extra. Place it in a safe location, such as your home, so 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 an outer garment or jacket that has large pockets. Don't forget to check places that you would not normally reach, like the inside of your shoes if you are on runners. Double-check your trunk if you have left the keys there. It's easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be stolen when someone steals your vehicle.