How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

Every car owner loses their keys at one point or another. It happens more often than most people realize it can be a major problem.

It is possible to replace lost car keys, depending on the type of key you have. The most basic keys can usually be made at a local hardware store if you can provide the VIN number or proof of ownership.

Retract your Steps

It's a hassle to lose your car keys, particularly when it happens during a busy period of time when you're required to be somewhere. However, it's not the end of the world and there are a variety of steps you can take to assist you in finding your car key replacement.

The first thing to do is go back to where you started. This means going back to the places you've visited and taking a look around, both at home and work. This will help you locate the keys by letting you know when you last was able to see them.

If you still can't locate your car keys, call a locksmith or a dealership in your area for help. They'll be able to create the new key for you and decode the locks that are already in your vehicle so that only the new key will be able to start it. They'll also erase the old key so that if anyone manages to obtain it, they aren't able to use your vehicle.

Before you call an expert locksmith or dealer, ensure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) handy. It's located on your driver's dashboard or door panel and will inform them of the car you drive so they can make an appropriate key for your vehicle.

Memory Exercises

If you lose your car keys, you could feel panicky. Try to keep your cool. This will allow you to think clearly and search more thoroughly. Close your eyes and relax. Then utilize your memory to recall the last time you saw your keys. If you're having difficulty remembering the exact location, retrace your steps once more and look for any clues that may have been discovered.

If you're experiencing issues, call an authorized locksmith or a dealership in your area to get help. You'll need to provide them with information about your vehicle and the security system that it uses and they'll create a replacement key that will pair with your existing security chip. They'll also be able to give you tips on how to avoid the loss of your keys in the future.

Make sure you have a valid vehicle Identification (VIN).

It wasn't long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car were not a huge problem. You could call your local locksmith and make a new key. But as cars have become more technological, so too have their keys, making them more difficult and expensive to replace. That's why it's important to always have an extra key in your car or at a minimum, be aware of the price the dealership for your car will charge you for a replacement if you lose one.

It is important to first find out if the key really missing. Check the pockets of your pants or jacket, the backseat, and other places that you may not normally look like the inside of a purse or shoe. Check your owner's guide to determine if it contains any special instructions on how to reset your key if it becomes dead.

If you've done everything you can and still haven't found your car keys, then you should contact an expert to request a new key. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional keys, key fobs or switchblade) it can cost you between $50 to $200 to buy an alternative one. If you have a standard key, the locksmith will usually cut a new one and reprogram it to fit your vehicle. This is a less expensive alternative to 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 your vehicle towed to them to order an additional key for your vehicle in accordance with the VIN. They'll then need to pair your new key with your vehicle electronically. This could be costly and a lengthy process. It's a great idea include 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

There is no doubt that modern vehicles are fitted with advanced security features that ensure that the car keys lost's contents are safe from theft. These features can make it difficult to replace car keys. However, it's not impossible to find an alternative key for these vehicles although the process is more involved and costly than in the past. The cost of the new key will be contingent on the kind of vehicle you own. You should be aware of this prior ordering one.

The classic double-edged car key can be made into a spare by visiting any hardware store or dealership. It is usually less than $10 and be a perfect backup or to start the car in an emergency. Transponder chips are used in the most recent models of keys for cars to control various aspects of the vehicle, including locking and unlocking, switching off and on, and other functions. The chips have to be programmed using a special machine that is only available at certain dealerships.

A local locksmith can help you if you require an extra key for these cars. They'll need the year and model of your vehicle and other details to confirm that you're the owner (like the registration number of your car or title). Certain locksmiths can create these keys on-site, saving you time from having to visit an agent.

The dealership is your best option if you don't own an extra. They will be the most knowledgeable about your car's model and the keys needed to get it started. This could be costly, however, and they won't be available for assistance on the road.

Try a Bluetooth key tracker as an affordable alternative. These devices are attached to your key ring, emitting a signal you can connect with an app on your smartphone. The app will display the location of your keys helping you locate them and preventing them from being lost in the first place!

Find a New Key

Everyone loses their car keys at one point or another. It can happen at the most inconvenient times, while at a gas station, or loading groceries into your trunk. It's not hard to find your keys again, but it can be stressful if don't have a spare set of keys at home or with a buddy.

There are still options to obtain a new key even if you've lost your original. The procedure varies based on the kind of key and your vehicle.

For example, if you have a standard key that fits into an ignition lock cylinder it's relatively simple to get a locksmith to make an immediate replacement. This is less than $200 and can be done much quicker than purchasing one from a dealer.

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

A locksmith may also be able to make an alternative key by using the VIN number of your car, as long as you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title. This is a much less expensive alternative to visiting an auto dealer however it's not always feasible if you own a newer or more expensive car.

The best way to prevent losing your keys is by having an extra. Place it in a secure location, like your home and you won't have to worry about putting it in a place when you leave your vehicle. It's also important to inspect pockets and purses regularly particularly if you are wearing an outerwear item with large pockets. Be sure to check the places that you would not 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 can be stolen when someone steals your vehicle.