How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

Everyone loses their car keys at some point or another. It happens more often than people think, but it can be a major trouble.

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

Retract Your Steps

The loss of your car keys can be stressful, especially if it happens at a busy time of the day and you have to go somewhere. It's not the worst thing in the world. There are a variety of ways to locate your car key replacement.

You should first retrace all your steps. This involves going back through the places you've been to and looking around, both at home and work. This will give you an idea of the last place you remember seeing your keys and could lead you to where they might be.

If you're unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll need to call an area locksmith or dealership to get help. They'll be able create the new key for you and decode the existing locks on your vehicle so that only the new key is able to start it. They'll also remove the old key so that if anyone manages to steal it, they aren't able to use your vehicle.

Make sure you have your VIN in hand before you contact an agent or locksmith. It's found on your driver's side dashboard or door panel, and it will let them know which car you own so they can design keys that match.

Memory Exercises

If you've lost your car keys, you may be anxious. But 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 are unable to remember where you put your keys you were, go back to the steps and look for clues.

If you're unable to solve the problem try contacting a locksmith in your area or dealer to get help. You'll have to give them information about your vehicle as well as its security system. They'll then create a new key that matches your existing security chip. They'll also be able to advise you on preventive measures to avoid future key loss.

Verify Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car were not a major issue. You could call your local locksmith to get a new key made. However, as cars have become more technological and sophisticated, so have their keys becoming more difficult and expensive to replace. That's why it's important to always have a spare key around, or at least know the amount your car dealership will charge for a replacement if you lose one.

It is important to first determine if the key is really missing. Examine the pockets of your pants or jacket as well as the back of your car, and other places that you may not normally go, such as the inside of a purse or shoe. You should also look through the owner's manual to determine if there are specific instructions for the type of key you own like 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 is time to contact an expert for an alternative. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional keys, key fobs, or switchblade), it will cost you between $50 to $200 to get new keys. If you own a traditional key, the locksmith will usually cut a new one and change it's programming to match your car. This is less expensive than the dealer's rates that could be as high as $320 to replace a lost key.

You'll have to contact your dealer and have your car towed to them so they can obtain a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. Then, they'll have to connect the new key to your vehicle electronically which is a costly and time-consuming process. This is why it's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance, so you can get the assistance of a professional should you ever require it!

Make sure your vehicle's security system is working

It's no secret that many modern cars come with fancy security features designed to protect the contents of the car from thieves. These features make it harder to replace the car keys. However, it's not impossible to obtain a new key for these cars although the process is more complex and expensive than it was in the past. The exact cost will vary according to the kind of key your vehicle is using, and you must be aware of before getting one made.

The classic double-edged car keys can be made into a spare key at any hardware store or dealership. It will typically cost less than $10 and be a perfect backup or to start the car in case of 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 switching on and turning off. These chips must be programmed using a special machine that is available only at certain dealerships.

A locksmith near you can assist you with a spare key for these cars. They'll need the model and year of the car, along with some other information (like your registration number or your title) to verify that they are the owner of the vehicle. Some locksmiths can make keys on site which will save you time from having to visit an agent.

If you do not have a spare, the alternative is the dealership. They will be the most familiar with your particular vehicle and the keys that are needed to get it started. It can be expensive and they won't be available for roadside assistance.

To get a more affordable alternative, try using a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices are attached to your key ring and emit a signal that you can connect to an app on your phone. The app will provide you with the location of your keys, helping you to find them and preventing them from getting lost in the first place!

Get a New Key

Everyone loses their car keys at some point or another. It can happen at the most awkward of places, such as at a petrol station or while loading groceries into your trunk. Even though it is easy to find your keys again, it could be a very stressful scenario when you don't have a spare set at home or with friends.

There are, however, options for you to get an alternative key if you have lost my car keys no spare the original. The procedure is dependent on the kind of key you have and the car you drive.

For instance, if have a key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder it's fairly easy to have a locksmith create a replacement on the spot. This is less than $200 and is much quicker than purchasing one from a dealer.

If you have a key fob equipped with an external transmitter, you'll need go to the dealer. The dealer will be able identify your details, lost car key replacement and send you the correct key at a cheaper price than you would pay to locksmith.

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

The best method to avoid losing your keys is having an extra. Place it in a safe place, such as your home, so that you don't have to worry about losing it when you leave your vehicle. It's also important to inspect your purses and pockets regularly particularly if you are wearing 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. Finally, be sure to double-check the trunk of your car if you have put the keys down there. It's easy to forget you left them there and they're easily stolen if a driver leaves in your car.