How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

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

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

Retract Your Steps

It's frustrating to lose your car keys, particularly when it occurs during a busy period of time when you have to go somewhere. It's not the end of the world and there are a number of ways to help you locate your car key replacement.

The first thing you need to do is retrace your steps. You can do this by returning to the places you've been and taking a look around, at both your home and work. This will give you a good idea of the last location you remember seeing your keys and can help you find the location they might be.

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

Be sure to have your VIN on hand before you contact an agent or locksmith. This number is located on the driver's door or dashboard. It will let them know what vehicle you own so they can create keys that match.

Memory Exercises

You might be tempted to be scared of losing your car keys, but be calm. This will allow you to concentrate and conduct a thorough search. Close your eyes, relax and make use of your memory to recall the exact location you last found your car keys the last time. If you are unable to remember the location of your keys you were, go back to the steps and search for clues.

If you're unable to solve the problem, contact a local locksmith or dealer to get help. You'll have to give them specific details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll then be able create an original key that matches your existing security chip. They'll also provide you with preventive measures to avoid future key loss.

Verify Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

In the past the idea of losing or misplacing your car keys was not a big problem. You could contact your local locksmith and have a new key made. As cars have become more sophisticated, so have their keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and also more expensive. It's essential to have an extra car key or to be aware of the cost of replacing it in the event you lose yours.

The first thing to do when you lose your car keys is to ensure that the lost keys for car key is not actually missing. Examine the pockets of your pants or jacket along with the backseat and other places you may not normally look like the inside of your shoe or purse. It is also advisable to look through the owner's manual to determine if there are specific instructions for the type of key you have, such as how to reset it in the event that it goes dead.

If you've checked everything and still can't find your car keys, it's time to contact a professional to get an alternative key. The cost of a new key can vary from $50 to more than $200, based on the kind you own. If you have a conventional key, the locksmith will usually cut a new one and change it's programming to fit your vehicle. This is a cheaper option than the dealer's prices, which can be as much as $320 to replace the lost key.

For a key fob or switchblade keys, you'll need to contact your dealer and have the car towing in to order an additional key for your vehicle based on the VIN. Then, they will have to connect the new key to your vehicle's computer this can be an expensive and time-consuming procedure. It's a good idea to add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to your policy to ensure that you receive assistance from a professional if needed!

Make sure your vehicle's security system is working

No secret is that many modern cars are equipped with sophisticated security features to safeguard the contents of the car from thieves. These features can make it difficult to replace keys for your car. It's not difficult to obtain an alternative key for these vehicles although the process is more complex and costly than in the past. The exact cost will vary depending on the type of key your vehicle is using, and you must be aware of prior to having one made.

The classic double-edged car key can be converted into a spare by visiting any hardware store or dealer. The cost is usually less than $10, and it will work perfectly as a backup key or to start your car in an emergency situation. The latest models of automobiles, however, use transponder chips in the keys to control different aspects of the vehicle from locking and unlocking to turning on and starting. The chips have to be programmed with a specific machine that is only available in some dealerships.

A locksmith in your area can assist you if you need a spare key for these cars. They will require the model and year of the vehicle, along with some other details (like your registration number or title) to prove that they are the owner. Certain locksmiths can create these keys on the spot, saving you time from needing to visit a dealer.

If you don't have a spare, the alternative is to go to the dealership. They will be the most knowledgeable about your particular vehicle and the keys needed to get it started. This can be expensive however, and they will not be open for roadside assistance.

Try using a Bluetooth key tracker for an affordable alternative. These devices attach to your key ring, emitting an audio signal that you can then connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then provide you with the location of your keys, aiding you in finding the keys and preventing them from being lost in the first instance!

Get a new code

Everyone loses their car keys at some point or another. It happens at the most inconvenient times, while at a gas station or loading groceries into your trunk. It's not hard to locate your keys however it can be stressful if you don't have an extra set of keys at home or with a buddy.

There are still ways to get a new key if you've lost your original. The process is different based on your type of key and the vehicle you are using.

If you own an ignition lock key for a cylinder, for instance it's fairly easy to have a local locksmith create a new one right on the spot. This option costs less than $200, and it's usually quicker than buying one from the dealer.

You'll need to visit the dealer if you have a remote key with an external transmitter. The dealer will be able locate your information and issue you the correct key at a lower cost than what you would pay for an locksmith.

If you have evidence of ownership like an official title or registration, a locksmith may be able to make keys using your VIN. This is a less expensive alternative to going to a dealership however, it's not always possible when you own a brand new or more expensive vehicle.

It is advisable to have a spare set of keys. Keep it in a secure place, such as your home, so that you don't need to be concerned about losing it when you leave your car. It's also important to check pockets and purses regularly, especially if you wear an outerwear item with large pockets. Don't forget to look at places that you would not normally reach, such as the inside of your shoes, especially if you're on runners. Double-check your trunk if you have put your keys in there. It's easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They could be stolen when someone drives away in your vehicle.