How to Find Your lost car keys cost Car Key Replacement

Everyone loses their car keys at one time or some other time. It happens more often than most people realize it can be a major hassle.

Fortunately the replacement of lost car keys with no spare car keys is relatively easy depending on the kind of key you have. The most basic keys can be made at an area hardware store, provided you have the VIN number or evidence of ownership.

Retract Your Steps

Losing your car keys is difficult, especially when it happens at a hectic time of day and you have to go somewhere. It's not the most unpleasant thing in the world. There are a variety of ways to locate your car key replacement.

You should first retrace all your steps. You can do this by returning to the places where you've been and taking a look around, both at your home and work. This will give you a good idea of where you've seen your keys, and may guide you to the location they might be.

If you are still unable to locate your car keys, you can call a locksmith or dealership nearby for assistance. They'll be able create an entirely new key for you and also decode the locks that are already in 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 even if someone does obtain it, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.

Make sure you have your VIN on hand prior to contacting the locksmith or dealer. This number is found on the door of the driver or on the dashboard. It will inform them of the car you own so they can create keys that match.

Memory Exercises

If you lose your car keys, you could be anxious. However, try to remain calm. This will help you think clearly and look more deeply. Close your eyes and relax. Then you can use your memory to recall the last time you viewed your keys. If you can't remember where your keys were, retrace the steps and search for clues.

If you are still having trouble, contact a locksmith or dealership near you for assistance. You'll be required to provide details about your car and the security system it has, and they'll be able to make a replacement key that will pair with your existing security chip. They'll also provide tips on how to avoid any future loss of keys.

Verify Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

Not too long ago losing or misplacing car keys wasn't a huge problem. You could just call your local locksmith and get a new key made. However, as cars have become more technological, so too have their keys, making them more expensive and difficult to replace. It is essential to have a spare car key or to be aware of the cost of a replacement in the event you lose yours.

The first thing to do when you lose your car keys is to make sure that the lost key is indeed missing. Check the pockets in your pants or jacket as well as the back of your car, and other places that you may not normally check like the inside of your purse or shoe. It is also advisable to go through your owner's manual and determine if there are specific instructions for the type of key you have, such as how to reset it in case it dies.

If you've tried everything but still cannot find your car keys, it's time to contact an expert to get an alternative. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional, key fob, or switchblade), it will cost of replacing lost car keys you between $50 to $200 to get new keys. If you have a standard key, the locksmith will typically cut a new key and change it's programming to match your car. This is a cheaper alternative to paying the dealer, who could charge up to $320 for a replacement key.

You'll need to contact your dealer and request that your car towed to them so they can obtain a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. Then, they will have to connect the new key to your vehicle's electronic key, which can be an expensive and lengthy procedure. It's a great idea include Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to your policy so that you can get expert help if needed!

Check Your Vehicle's Security System

It's not a secret that many modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features that help keep the contents of the vehicle safe from thieves. These security features can make it more difficult to replace the car keys. There is still a possibility of getting an alternative key for these cars, however the process is more complicated and expensive. The cost will be according to the type of key your car has, and this is something you need to be aware of prior to getting one made.

The classic double-edged car key can be turned into a spare by visiting any hardware store or at a dealership. It is usually less than $10 and serve as a backup or to start the car in case of emergency. Transponder chips are employed in more recent models of keys for cars to control various aspects of the vehicle, such as locking and unlocking, turning off and on, and other functions. These chips need to be programmed by replacing a lost car key special machine, which is generally only available at certain dealerships.

When you need to make an additional spare for these advanced models of cars, a locksmith local to you is likely to be able. They'll need the model and year of the car as well as other information (like your registration number or your title) to prove that they are the owner of the vehicle. Some locksmiths will be able to make these keys onsite and save you the hassle of having to visit an agent.

The dealership is the best option if you don't own an extra. They are the most familiar with your particular vehicle and the keys needed to get it started. It can be expensive, and they will not be available for roadside assistance.

Try an Bluetooth key tracker as an affordable alternative. These devices connect to your key ring and emit an audio signal that you can then connect with an app on your smartphone. The app will then provide you with the location of your keys helping you locate them and prevent them from getting replacing lost car keys in the first place!

Get a new key

Everyone loses their car keys at some point or another. It can happen in the most inconvenient of times such as at a gas station or while taking groceries out of your trunk. It is not difficult to locate your keys however it is stressful if you don't have an extra set of keys at home or with a buddy.

There are still ways to obtain a replacement key if you've lost your original. The process varies depending on your type of key and vehicle.

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

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

A locksmith might also be able to make an alternative key with the help of the VIN number of your car, as long as you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title. This is a much less expensive alternative to visiting 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. Keep it in a safe location, like your home, so that you do not have to be concerned about losing it when you leave your car. Make sure to check your purses and pockets often, especially if you wear a coat or jacket with large pockets. Be sure to check the places that you would not normally reach, like the inside of your shoes if you have on runners. Check your trunk to see if you have put your keys in there. It's easy to forget you left them there and they can easily get stolen if someone else leaves in your car.