How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

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

Fortunately replacing car keys lost can be relatively simple depending on the kind of key you have. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership you can have the most basic keys at your local hardware store.

Retract your Steps

The loss of your car keys can be stressful, especially if it happens at a hectic time of day and you need to get somewhere. However, it's not the end of the world and there are a number of ways to help you locate your lost car key replacement.

You should first retrace all your steps. This means going back to the places you've visited and taking a look around at home and work. This will give you a good idea of the last location you remember seeing your keys, and may guide you to the location they might be.

If you still can't locate your car keys, contact a locksmith or dealership in your area for help. They'll be able to make an entirely new key for you and also 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 from your vehicle's system, so even if someone does get their hands on it the key, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.

Before you contact a locksmith or dealer ensure you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) handy. It's located on your driver's dashboard or door, and it will let them know which vehicle you own so that they can make an appropriate key for your vehicle.

Using Your Memory

If you've lost your car keys, you might be frightened. But try to keep your cool. This will enable you to concentrate and thoroughly. Close your eyes and take a moment to relax. Then, use your memory to recall the last place you saw your keys. If you're struggling to remember the exact location, retrace your steps once more and look for any clues that could have surfaced.

If you're unable to solve the problem you can contact a local locksmith or dealer to get help. You'll need to provide them with specific details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll then create an original key that matches the security chip you have already installed. They can also give you advice on how to prevent future key losses.

Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

In the past, misplacing-or losing-your car keys wasn't a huge deal. Contact your local locksmith to find a replacement car key. As cars become more technological, so too have their keys, making them more difficult and expensive to replace. It's essential to have an extra car key, or to be aware of the cost of a replacement in case you lose yours.

The first thing you need to do when you lose a car key is to ensure that the key you lost is actually missing. This is done by checking the pockets of the clothing that you wore last time you used your car, or looking inside the back seat of your vehicle or even looking in areas you don't normally see like the inside of a shoe or a purse. Look through your owner's manual to see if it has any specific instructions on how to reset the key if it is dead.

If you've checked everything and still haven't found your car keys, then it's time to contact an expert to request a new key. The cost of a new key will vary from $50 to over $200 based on the type you have. If you have a traditional key, you can have the locksmith simply cut a new key and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is a cheaper alternative to paying a dealer, who could charge up to $320 for a new key.

If you want a key fob or switchblade key, you'll need to call your dealership and have your car towed in for them to request the new key for your vehicle based on the VIN. They will then have to connect your new key to the vehicle electronically. This can be a costly and time-consuming process. This is why it's a great idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you can have the help of a professional should you ever need to!

Check the security system of your car.

No secret is that many modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features to protect the vehicle's content from thieves. Although these features are typically a good thing, lost car key they can also make keys for cars more difficult to replace. There is still a possibility of getting a replacement key for these cars, however the process is more difficult and costly. The cost of a new key will depend on the type of vehicle you own. It is important to be aware of this prior to purchasing one.

The most straightforward type of car lost key key to make a spare for is the classic double-edged key that can be purchased at any hardware store, locksmith or car dealership. The cost is usually less than $10 and will work perfectly as a backup key or to start your car in an urgent situation. Transponder chips are utilized in the latest models of keys for cars to control various aspects of the vehicle, like locking and unlocking, turning on and off, and other functions. The chips have to be programmed with a special machine, which is usually only available through certain dealerships.

When you need to make an additional spare for these advanced models of automobiles, a locksmith in your area should be able to help. They will require the model and year of the car and other information (like your registration number or your title) to prove that they are the owner of the vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to make keys in-person which will save you the hassle of having to go to dealers.

If you don't have a spare, the alternative is the dealership. They are the best people to ask because they know the vehicle and what keys you require to start it. It can be expensive and they may not be able to provide roadside assistance.

Try an Bluetooth key tracker for an affordable alternative. These devices attach to your key ring and emit a signal you can transmit to an app on your smartphone. The app will show you where your keys are located, helping you locate them and prevent them from getting lost in the first place!

Find a New Key

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

There are, however, alternatives to purchase a new key in the event that you've lost the original. The procedure is dependent on the type of key you have and the car you drive.

If you have an ignition lock key that is a cylinder, like it's fairly easy to get a locksmith in your area to make a new one right on the spot. This is less than $200 and is much quicker than purchasing one from a dealership.

You'll need to go to the dealer if you own an electronic remote with an external transmitter. The dealership will be able to locate your information and issue you the right key at a lower cost than you would pay if you went to a locksmith.

If you have evidence of ownership, like an official title or registration or a certificate of ownership, a locksmith might be able to make an entirely new key with your VIN. This is a cheaper option to visiting a dealership. However, it might not be feasible in the case of a vehicle that is older or expensive.

The best way to prevent losing your keys is having a spare. Keep it in a safe location, such as your home and you won't have to worry about putting it in a place when you leave your vehicle. Be sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, particularly if you wear a coat or jacket with large pockets. Be sure to check places you wouldn't usually reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you wear runners. Check your trunk to see if you have left the keys there. It's easy to forget you put them there, and they could easily be stolen if someone else takes off in your vehicle.