How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

It's a fact of life that everyone loses car keys at some point. It happens more than people think and can be a big trouble.

Fortunately, replacing lost car keys can be relatively simple, depending on what type of key you own. The most basic keys can usually be made at the local hardware store if you can provide the VIN number or proof of ownership.

Retract Your Steps

It's frustrating to lose your car keys, particularly when it happens during a busy time of the day when you need to be somewhere. Fortunately, it's not the end of the world, and there are several steps you can take to help you find the replacement car key you lost.

You must first retrace your steps. This means going back through the places you've been to and looking around at home as well as at work. This will give you a good idea of the last location you recalled seeing your keys, and may lead you to where they could be.

If you're unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps you'll need to call an area locksmith or dealership for assistance. They'll be able create a new key for you, and decode the locks that are already in your vehicle so that only the new key is able to start it. They'll also erase the old key so that if anyone does manage to obtain it, they aren't able to drive your vehicle.

Before you speak to a locksmith or dealer make sure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) available. It's found on your driver's side door panel or dashboard and will inform them of the car you drive so they can make keys that match.

Memory Exercises

You might be tempted to be scared of losing your car keys however, be calm. This will enable you to concentrate and thoroughly. Relax your eyes and close them. Then utilize your memory to recall the last time you viewed your keys. If you can't remember where you put your keys you were, go back to the steps and look for clues.

If you're having no luck, contact a local locksmith or dealer for assistance. You'll need to provide them with information about your vehicle as well as its security system. They'll then create an original key that matches the security chip you have already installed. They can also give you tips on how to avoid any future loss of keys.

Verify Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).

In the past losing or misplacing car keys was not a big problem. You could simply call your local locksmith to get a new key made. As cars become more high-tech and sophisticated, so have their keys becoming more expensive and difficult to replace. This is why it's essential to always keep a spare key around, or at least know the amount your car dealer will charge to replace lost keys it if you lose one.

You must first find out if the key really missing. Examine the pockets of your pants or jacket as well as the back of your car, and other places you might not normally go for, like the inside of your shoe or purse. Look through your owner's manual to determine if there are any special instructions on how to reset your key if it becomes dead.

If you've checked everything and still can't find the car keys, then it's time to call an expert to obtain a new key. The cost of a new key will range from $50 to $200 based on the type you have. If you have a traditional key, you can usually get the locksmith to cut a new one and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is a less expensive alternative to paying a dealer, who may charge up to $320 for a replacement key.

For lost car key replacement a key fob or switchblade key, you'll need to contact your dealer and have the car towed in for them to order a new key for your vehicle in accordance with the VIN. Then, they'll need to connect your new key with the vehicle electronically. This could be a costly and time-consuming procedure. This is why it's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance, so you can have the help of a professional should you ever need to!

Check Your Vehicle's Security System

It's not a secret that many modern cars have fancy security features that help protect the contents of the car from thieves. These security features make it harder to replace car keys. It's still possible to get a replacement key for these vehicles, but the process is more difficult and expensive. The cost of a new key will depend on the type of vehicle you own. You should know this before ordering one.

The classic car key with a double edge can be made into a spare at any hardware store or at a dealership. The price is typically less than $10, and it will work perfectly as a backup key to start your car in a dire situation. Modern models of cars, however, incorporate transponder chips into the keys to control various aspects of the vehicle from locking and unlocking to turning on and off. These chips must be programmed using a special machine that is available only at certain dealerships.

A local locksmith can help you if you need a spare key for these vehicles. They'll need the model and year of the car and other information (like your registration number or title) to verify that they are the owner. Certain locksmiths are capable of making keys in-person, saving you the time of having to go to dealers.

If you don't have a spare car, the next best option is the dealership. They are the most familiar with your particular vehicle and the keys required to start it. It can be expensive and they won't be available for roadside assistance.

To get a more affordable alternative, you can try a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices attach to your key ring, and emit a signal you can connect with an app on your smartphone. The app will provide you with the location of your keys helping you locate them and preventing them from being lost car keys with no spare in the first instance!

Find a new key

Everyone loses their keys at some moment in time. It can happen in the most awkward of places like at a gasstation or when loading groceries into your car. It's not hard to find your keys however it can be stressful if don't have an extra set of keys at home or with a companion.

There are ways to obtain a replacement key in case you've lost your original. The process varies depending on the kind of key and your vehicle.

For instance, if you have a traditional key that fits into an ignition lock cylinder it's fairly easy to get a locksmith to make an immediate replacement. This is less than $200 and is quicker than purchasing a new one from a dealership.

If you have a key fob with an external transmitter,, you'll need to visit the dealer. The dealer will be able to find your information and send you the correct key at a cheaper price than you'd pay a locksmith.

A locksmith may also be able create a replacement key using the VIN of your vehicle, so long as you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title. This is a less expensive alternative to visiting a dealership. However, it may not be feasible in the case of a vehicle that is older or has a high price.

It is advisable to have a spare set keys. Place it in a safe location, like your home, so you do not have to be concerned about losing it when you leave your vehicle. Make sure to check your purses and Lost Car Key Replacement pockets frequently, particularly if you have an outer garment or jacket that has large pockets. Don't forget to look at places that you would not normally reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you are on runners. Be sure to check the trunk of your car if you have put keys there. It's easy for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be taken when someone drives away in your vehicle.