How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

Every car owner loses their keys at one time or another. It happens more frequently than people realize, however, and it can be a huge hassle.

Fortunately, replacing 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 get the most basic keys made at the local hardware store.

Retract your steps

It's a hassle to lose your car keys, especially when it happens during a hectic time of the day when you need to be somewhere. It's not the most frustrating thing that can happen. There are several ways to locate your car key replacement.

The first thing to do is go back to where you started. This means going back through the places you've been and taking a look around at home and work. This will give you a good idea of where you've seen your keys, and may help you find where they could be.

If you can't find your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll need to contact an auto locksmith or a local locksmith to get help. They'll be able create a 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 wipe the old key off your vehicle's system, meaning that should someone manage to obtain it, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.

Before you call a locksmith or dealer ensure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) available. This number is located on the driver's door panel or on the dashboard. It will let them know what car you own so they can create keys that match.

Utilizing Your Memory

If you've lost your car keys, you may feel panicky. Try to remain calm. This will allow you to think clearly and look more deeply. Close your eyes, relax and make use of your memory to remember the exact location you last found your car keys the last time. If you can't remember the location of your keys, retrace the steps and search for clues.

If you're unable to solve the problem, contact a local locksmith or dealership to get help. They'll require specific details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll be able to create keys that match the security chip you have already installed. They'll also provide advice on how to prevent any future loss of keys.

Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

Not too long ago the idea of losing or misplacing your car keys was not a big problem. You could contact your local locksmith and make a new key. However, replacing lost car keys as cars have become more technological and sophisticated, so have their keys, making them more difficult and expensive to replace. This is why it's crucial to always keep an extra key in your car, or at least know how much your car dealer will charge you to replace it if you lose one.

You should first check to find out if the key really missing. Examine the pockets of your pants or jacket along with the backseat and other places that you may not normally check like the inside of a purse or shoe. Also, you should check your owner's manual to find out if there are special instructions for the kind of key you own, such as how to reset it in case it dies.

If you've checked everything but still cannot find your car keys, it is time to contact an expert for an alternative. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional keys, key fobs or switchblade) it can cost you anywhere from $50 to $200 to get an alternative one. If you have a standard key, Replacing Lost Car Keys a locksmith can usually cut a new one and modify it to work with your vehicle. This is a cheaper option than the dealer's prices, which can cost as much as $320 to replace keys that have been lost.

For a key fob or switchblade key lost, you'll have to call your dealership and have the vehicle towed to them to purchase an additional key for your vehicle that is based on the VIN. Then, they'll need to pair the new key to your vehicle electronically, which can be an expensive and lengthy procedure. This is why it's a good idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you will have the assistance of a professional should you ever need to!

Verify the security system of your vehicle.

There is no doubt that modern vehicles are fitted with advanced security features that ensure that the car's contents are safe from thieves. Although these features are typically a good thing however, they can make keys for the car more difficult to replace. It's not difficult to find an alternative key for these vehicles although the process is more complicated and costly than it was in the past. The cost of a new key will depend on the type of vehicle you own. It is important to be aware of this prior ordering one.

The most straightforward kind of car key to make a spare for is the classic double-edged key that can be replaced at any hardware store, locksmith or car dealership. The cost is typically less than $10, and it can be used as a backup key to start your car in a dire situation. Transponder chips are employed in the latest models of car keys to control different aspects of the vehicle, such as locking and unlocking, turning on and off, and other functions. These chips need to be programmed with a specific device that is only available at certain dealerships.

A locksmith in your area can assist you if you require a spare key for these vehicles. They will need the model and year of the car as well as other information (like your registration number or title) to prove that they are the owner of the vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to make keys in-person, saving you the time of going to a dealer.

The dealership is your best option if you don't own a spare. They are the most knowledgeable about your particular vehicle and the keys that are needed to get it started. It can be costly and they won't be able to assist you on the road.

Try using a Bluetooth key tracker for an alternative that is affordable. These devices connect to your key ring, and emit a signal you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then provide you with the whereabouts of your keys, aiding you in finding them and prevent them from being lost the keys to my car 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, such as at a gas station, or loading groceries into your trunk. It's not difficult to find your keys again however it is stressful if you do not have a spare set of keys at home or with a companion.

Fortunately, there are still options to obtain a new key in the event that you've lost the original. The process varies depending on the type of key and the vehicle you are using.

If you own an ignition lock key for a cylinder, for instance it's fairly easy to have a locksmith local to create a new one immediately. This is less than $200 and can be done much quicker than purchasing one from a dealership.

You will need to visit the dealer if you own an electronic remote with an external transmitter. The dealer will be able find your information and send you the correct key at a cheaper price than you would pay to locksmith.

If you have evidence of ownership, such as a registration or title or registration, a locksmith might be able to create a new key using your VIN. This is a cheaper alternative to visiting an auto dealer however it's not always possible if you own a brand new or more expensive car.

It is advisable to keep a spare set of keys. Keep it in a safe place, like your house and you won't need to think about leaving it somewhere when you leave your vehicle. Be sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, particularly if you have coats or jackets with large pockets. Be sure to check the places that you would not normally reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you are on runners. Be sure to double-check the trunk of your car if you have put the keys in there. It's easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be stolen when someone drives away in your car.