How to Find Your lost key what to do Car Key Replacement

Every car owner loses their keys at one point or some other time. It happens more often than most people realize it can be a big problem.

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 hectic time of the day when you need to get somewhere. Fortunately, 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. You can do this by going back to the places you've been and taking a look around, both at home and at work. This will help you find the keys by telling you when you last saw them.

If you are still unable to locate your car keys, contact an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area for assistance. They'll be able to make a new key for you and decode the locks on your vehicle to ensure that only the new key is able to start it. They'll also erase the old key to ensure that if anyone manages to get it, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.

Be sure to have your VIN handy before contacting a dealer or locksmith. This is the number located on your driver's dashboard or door panel, and it will allow them to know what vehicle you own so that they can design an appropriate key for your vehicle.

Utilizing Your Memory

You may be tempted fear losing your car keys, but try to remain calm. This will allow you to think clearly and look more thoroughly. Close your eyes and relax. Then utilize your memory to remember the last place you saw your keys. If you're having trouble remembering where they were, go back your steps once more and look for any clues that might have been discovered.

If you are experiencing issues, call an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area to get help. You'll have to provide them with details about your vehicle and the security system it has, and they'll be able make a replacement key that can be paired with your security chip. They'll also be able to advise you on preventive measures to avoid future key loss.

Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

In the past losing or misplacing car keys was not a big issue. You could simply call your local locksmith and have a new key made. As cars become more advanced and sophisticated, so have their keys becoming more expensive and difficult to replace. That's why it's important to always have an extra key in your car or at a minimum, know how much your car dealership will charge you for a replacement in the event that you lose one.

You should first check to see if the key is really missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the clothing you wore when you last used your car, looking at the back of your car, and even checking areas you don't normally see like the inside of a shoe or a purse. It is also advisable to look through the owner's manual to see if there are any special instructions for the kind of key you own for example, how to reset it in case it goes dead.

If you have checked everything but still cannot find your car keys, it's time to call an expert to get an alternative. The cost of a new key will vary from $50 to over $200 based on the type you own. If you own an old-fashioned key, you could get the locksmith to cut a new key and reprogram it for your vehicle. This is a cheaper option than the dealer's price which can cost as much as $320 to replace the lost key.

For a key fob or switchblade keys, you'll need to call your dealership and have your car towed in for them to request a new key for your vehicle based on the VIN. Then, they will have to connect the new key to your vehicle's electronic key, which can be an expensive and time-consuming procedure. This is why it's a good idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you can have the help of a professional should you ever require it!

Check Your Vehicle's Security System

It's no secret that many modern cars have fancy security features that help protect the contents of the car from thieves. While these security features are generally a good thing, they can also make the car keys more difficult to replace. It's still possible to get an alternative key for these cars, however the process is more complicated and costly. The exact cost will vary depending on the kind of key your vehicle uses, which you should be aware of prior to getting one made.

The classic double-edged car key can be converted into a spare key at any hardware store or at a dealership. It will typically cost less than $10 and serve as a backup or to start the car in an emergency. More recent models of cars, however utilize transponder chips inside the keys to control various aspects of the car including locking and unlocking to turning on and off. These chips need to be programmed with a specific machine that is available only in some dealerships.

When you need to make an additional spare for these sophisticated automobiles, a locksmith in your area should be able to help. They will need the model and year of the vehicle, along with some other details (like your registration number or title) to verify that they are the owner of the vehicle. Some locksmiths will be able to make keys in-person and save you the hassle of having to visit an agent.

If you do not have a spare, the alternative is the dealership. They'll be the most knowledgeable about your car's model and the keys that are required to start it. This can be costly however, and they won't be able to provide roadside assistance.

For a much more affordable alternative, consider a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices clip onto your key ring and emit a signal you can connect to an app on your phone. The app will then show you the whereabouts of your keys, helping you locate them and prevent them from getting lost in the first instance!

Find a New Key

Every car owner loses their keys at one point or another. It could happen at the most inconvenient times, while at a gas station, or loading groceries into your trunk. It is not difficult to find your keys, but it can be stressful if you do not have a spare set of keys at home or with a companion.

Fortunately, there are still options to obtain a new key in the event that you've lost the original. The procedure is dependent on the kind of key you have and the car you drive.

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

You will need to visit the dealer if you have remote keys that have an external transmitter. The dealer will be able to locate your information, and then send you the correct key for a lower cost than you would pay to locksmith.

If you have proof of ownership, such as the title or registration or a certificate of ownership, a locksmith might be able create a new key using your VIN. This is a cheaper alternative to visiting the dealership however, it's not always possible if you own a newer or more expensive vehicle.

It is advisable to have a spare set keys. Keep it in a safe location, like your home, so that you don't need to be concerned about losing it when you leave your car. It's also important to inspect pockets and purses regularly especially if you're wearing a jacket or coat with large pockets. Be sure to check the places you wouldn't normally reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you are on runners. Be sure to check the trunk of your car if you have put the keys in there. It's easy to forget that you put them in there and they could easily be stolen if a driver drives off in your car.