How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

It's a fact that everyone loses car keys at some moment in time. It happens more frequently than people think, but it is a huge hassle.

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

Retract Your Steps

It's frustrating to lose your car keys, especially if it happens during a hectic time of the day when you're required to be somewhere. Fortunately, it's not the end of the world, and there are several ways to help you find your car key replacement.

You should first retrace all your steps. This involves going back through the places you've visited and taking a look around at home and work. This will give you an idea of where you remember seeing your keys and could help you find where they might be.

If you can't find your car keys after retracing your steps you'll need to call a local locksmith or dealership to get help. They will be able create a new car keys for you, and decode the locks you have in place so that only the key can start the vehicle. They'll also erase the old key to ensure that if anyone does manage to obtain it, they can't drive your vehicle.

Make sure you have your VIN handy before you contact a dealer or locksmith. This is the number located on your driver's side dashboard or door and will allow them to know what car you drive so they can create keys that match.

Memory Exercises

You may be tempted to be scared of losing your car keys, but be calm. This will allow you to concentrate and search thoroughly. Relax your eyes and close them. Then, use your memory to remember the last time you saw your keys. If you're having trouble remembering the exact location, retrace your steps once more and look for any clues that may have surfaced.

If you're unable to solve the problem, contact a local locksmith or dealership to get help. You'll have to provide them with information about your vehicle and the security system it has and they'll be able to make a replacement key that can be paired with your existing security chip. They'll also be able to give you advice on how to prevent future key losses.

Verify Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

A few years ago the idea of losing or misplacing your car keys was not a big issue. Call your local locksmith and obtain a new car key. As cars become more sophisticated and sophisticated, so have keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and costlier. It is essential to have an extra car key or to know the cost of a replacement in the event you lose yours.

You should first check to find out if the key really missing. This can be done by checking the pockets of the clothing you wore when you last used your car, or looking inside the back seat of your car, and even checking places you wouldn't usually look like the inside of a shoe or purse. You should also go through your owner's manual and see if there are any specific instructions for the type of key you own for example, how to reset it in case it goes dead.

If you've tried everything but you are still unable to locate your car keys, then you should contact an expert to request new keys. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional, key fob or switchblade) it could cost you anything from $50 to $200 to buy a new one. If you have 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 rates which can cost as much as $320 to replace a lost key.

You'll need to call your dealer and have your vehicle towed to them so they can purchase a new VIN-based keys for your vehicle. They'll then need to pair your new key with your vehicle electronically. This could be costly and a lengthy procedure. It's a good idea to include Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy so that you can receive expert assistance if you need it!

Check your vehicle's security system

It's no secret that many modern cars have fancy security features designed to keep the contents of the vehicle safe from theft. Although these features are typically beneficial however, they can make keys for the car more difficult to replace. Fortunately, it's not impossible to obtain an alternative key for these vehicles however, the process is more complicated and costly than in the past. The exact cost will vary 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 easiest type of car key to make a spare for is the traditional double-edged key that can be purchased at any hardware store, locksmith or car dealership. The price is typically less than $10, and is perfect as a backup key to start your car in an urgent situation. Transponder chips are employed in the latest models of car keys to control different aspects of the vehicle, Replacing Lost Keys To A Car such as locking and unlocking, switching off and on, as well as other functions. The chips have to be programmed using a special device that is only available in some dealerships.

A locksmith near you can assist you if you need an extra key for these vehicles. They'll need the model and year of the vehicle as well as other information (like your registration number or title) to confirm that they are the owner of the vehicle. Certain locksmiths are capable of making keys on the spot which will save you the hassle of having to go to dealers.

If you don't have a spare car, the alternative is the dealership. They are the best place to speak to since they know your car and what keys you require to start it. This can be expensive however, and they won't be open for assistance at the roadside.

If you want a less expensive alternative, you can try a Bluetooth key tracker. 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 show you where your keys are located, helping you locate them and prevent them from being replacing lost keys to a car in the first place!

Get a New Key

Every car owner loses their keys at one time or another. It happens at the most awkward times, like at a gas station, or Replacing Lost Keys To A Car loading groceries into your trunk. Even though it is easy to locate your keys again, it can be a very stressful situation if you don't have a spare set at home or with your friends.

There are ways to get a replacement key in case you've lost keys in car your original. The procedure is dependent on the type of key you have and the vehicle you are using.

If you own an ignition lock cylinder key, for example it's relatively simple to have a locksmith local to create a new one right on the spot. This is less than $200, and it's often quicker than getting one from the dealer.

You will need to visit the dealer if you own a remote key with an external transmitter. The dealership will be able to locate your information and issue you the right key at a cheaper price than what you would pay if you went to a locksmith.

If you have proof of ownership, such as the title or registration or a certificate of ownership, a locksmith might be able to make keys using your VIN. This is a cheaper alternative to going to the dealership however, it's not always possible when you own a newer or more expensive car.

The best way to avoid losing your keys is by having an extra. Keep it in a secure location, like your home, so that you don't need to worry about losing it if you leave your car. It is also essential to check your purses and pockets regularly particularly if you are wearing a coat or jacket with large pockets. Check places you might not normally reach, like the inside of your shoes when you wear shoes. Also, make sure to double-check the trunk of your car if you put keys there. It's easy to forget that you left them there and they could easily be taken away if someone else leaves in your car.