How to Find Your lost my car keys Car Key Replacement

Every car owner loses their keys at one point or another. It happens more often than people think however it is a huge hassle.

It is possible to replace lost car keys dependent on the type of key you have. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership you can have the most basic keys made at the local hardware store.

Retract Your Steps

The loss of your car keys can be difficult, especially when it happens at a hectic time of the day and you're required to travel. It's not the end of the world and there are a number of ways you can help you locate your lost car key replacement.

The first thing to do is go back to where you started. You can do this by going back to the places where you've been and looking around, both at home and at work. This will help you find the keys, letting you know where you last was able to see them.

If you are unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps you'll need to call an area locksmith or dealership for assistance. They'll be able to make a new key for you and decode the locks that are already in your vehicle to ensure that only the new key is able to start it. They'll also remove the old key so that if anyone manages to get it, they can't drive your vehicle.

Make sure you have your VIN handy prior to contacting an agent or locksmith. This is the number found on your driver's side dashboard or door panel, and it will let them know which car you drive so they can make keys that match.

Using Your Memory

If you've lost your car keys, you could feel panicky. Try to remain calm. This will allow you to think clearly and look more deeply. Close your eyes and take a moment to relax. Then you can use your memory to remember the last time you saw your keys. If you're having trouble remembering the exact location, retrace your steps and search for any clues that may have surfaced.

If you're experiencing issues, call an authorized locksmith or a dealership in your area to get help. They'll require information about your vehicle as well as its security system. They'll then create keys that match your security chip. They can also give you advice on how to prevent the loss of your keys in the future.

Verify Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

In the past, misplacing-or losing-your car keys wasn't a big problem. Contact your local locksmith to obtain a new car key. But as cars have become more advanced as well, so have keys becoming more expensive and difficult to replace. This is why it's essential to always have a spare key around, or at least know the amount your car dealership will charge for a replacement in the event that you lose one.

The first thing to do when you lose your car keys is to confirm that the key you lost is indeed missing. Check the pockets in your pants or jacket, the backseat, and other places that you may not normally go like the inside of a purse or shoe. Look through your owner's manual to determine if it contains specific instructions on how to reset the key if it is dead.

If you've checked everything but still cannot find your car keys, it's time to call a professional for an alternative. The cost of a new one will range from $50 to $200 depending 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 can charge up to $320 for a replacement key.

If you want a key fob or switchblade key, you'll need to call your dealership and have the vehicle towed to them to order an additional key for your vehicle based on the VIN. They'll then need to connect your new key to the vehicle electronically. This can be costly and a lengthy procedure. It's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to your policy so that you can get expert help if needed!

Check the security system of your car.

There is no doubt that modern cars are equipped with sophisticated security features to protect the vehicle's content from theft. While these features are usually a good thing but they can also make keys for cars more difficult to replace. However, it's not impossible to get a new key for these vehicles although the process is more complicated and costly than in the past. The cost will be 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 key can be made into a spare by visiting any hardware store or dealership. The price is typically less than $10, and it is perfect as a backup key or to start your car in a dire situation. Transponder chips are employed in more recent models of car keys to control different aspects of the vehicle, such as locking and unlocking, switching on and off, and other functions. The chips have to be programmed with a specific machine that is available only in some dealerships.

When you need to make an additional spare for these advanced models of cars, a locksmith local to you will be able to assist. They will need the model and year of the car and other information (like your registration number or title) to verify that they are the owner of the vehicle. Some locksmiths will be able to make these keys onsite and save you the hassle of going to dealers.

If you don't have a spare, the alternative is the dealership. They are the best person to talk to because they are familiar with your car and what keys you require to start it. This can be costly however, and they will not be able to provide roadside assistance.

For a much more affordable alternative, try using a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices attach to your key ring and emit a signal you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then display the location of your keys helping you locate the keys and preventing them from getting lost in the first instance!

Find a New Key

Everybody loses their keys at some moment in time. It can happen in the most inconvenient of times, such as at a gasstation or when taking groceries out of your trunk. It's not difficult to find your keys, but it can be stressful if do not have a spare set of keys at home or with a buddy.

Fortunately, there are still options for you to get new keys in the event that you've lost the original. The process depends on the type of key you have and your vehicle.

For example, if you have a key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder, it's relatively simple to get a locksmith to make an immediate replacement. This option costs less than $200 and is usually quicker than buying one from a dealership.

You will need to visit the dealer if you own an electronic remote with an external transmitter. The dealer will identify your details, and then send you the correct key for a lower cost than you would pay to locksmith.

A locksmith might also be able create a replacement key by using the VIN of your vehicle, so long as you have evidence of ownership like your registration or title. This is a cheaper option to visiting a dealership. However, it might not be feasible if your vehicle is newer or expensive.

The best way to avoid losing your keys is having an extra. Place it in a safe location, such as your home, so that you do not have to worry about losing it if you leave your car. It's also important to check your purses and pockets regularly particularly if you are wearing a coat or jacket with large pockets. Don't forget to check places you wouldn't normally reach, such as the inside of your shoes, especially if you're on runners. Check your trunk to see if you have left the keys there. It's easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They could be stolen when someone drives away in your vehicle.