How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

Everyone loses their car keys at one time or some other time. It happens more frequently than people think, but it can be a major inconvenience.

It is possible to replace lost car keys, dependent on the type of key you own. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership then you can get the most basic keys at your local hardware store.

Retract Your Steps

Losing your car keys can be stressful, especially if it happens at a hectic time of the day and you need to get somewhere. It's not the worst thing in the world. There are a variety of ways to locate your car key replacement.

You must first retrace your steps. You can do this by going back to the places you've been and looking around, at both the workplace and at home. This will help you locate the keys by letting you know where you last seen them.

If you are still unable to locate your car keys, you can call a locksmith or dealership in your area for assistance. They'll be able to create a new key for you and decode the existing locks on your vehicle, so that only the new key can start it. They'll also remove the old key, so that if anyone does manage to obtain it, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.

Make sure you have your VIN handy prior to contacting the locksmith or dealer. This number is located on the door of the driver or dashboard. It will let them know what vehicle you own and they will be able to create keys that match.

Memory Exercises

You might be tempted to be scared of losing your car keys, but be calm. This will enable you to concentrate and search thoroughly. Relax your eyes and close them. Then utilize your memory to remember the last time you viewed your keys lost for car. If you're having difficulty remembering where they were, retrace your steps again and look for any clues that could have surfaced.

If you're not getting any luck you can contact a local locksmith or dealership for assistance. They'll require specific details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll then be able create a new key that matches your existing security chip. They'll also provide suggestions on how to prevent future key losses.

Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

Not too long ago the idea of losing or misplacing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could just call your local locksmith and get a new key made. As cars have evolved and so have their keys. This makes them harder to replace and also more expensive. This is why it's crucial to always have a spare key on hand or at the very least be aware of the price the dealership for your car will charge for a replacement if you lose one.

It is important to first determine if the key is really missing. Check the pockets of your jacket or pants as well as the back of your car, and other places you may not normally check like the inside of your shoe or purse. Check your owner's guide to determine if it contains any special instructions on how to reset your key if it is dead.

If you've tried everything and still can't locate your car keys, it is time to get an expert to get a new one. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional, key fob, or switchblade) it could cost you anything from $50 to $200 to buy an alternative one. If you own a traditional key, you can usually have the locksmith simply cut a new key and replace lost car keys reprogram it to your vehicle. This is a cheaper alternative than paying the dealer, who may charge up to $320 for a replacement key.

You'll need to call your dealer and request that your vehicle towing by them to allow them to order a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. They'll then need to connect your new key to the vehicle electronically. This can be costly and a lengthy procedure. It's a great idea include Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy to ensure that you receive expert assistance if you need it!

Verify the security system of your vehicle.

It's no secret that many modern vehicles are fitted with sophisticated security features to ensure that the car's contents are safe from thieves. These security features can make it difficult to replace the car keys. Fortunately, it's not impossible to obtain an alternative key for these vehicles, though the process is more complex and costly than in the past. The cost of the new key will be contingent on the type of vehicle you have. It is important to be aware of this prior to purchasing one.

The classic double-edged car keys can be converted into a spare by visiting any hardware store or dealer. It is usually less than $10 and will be a perfect backup or to start the car in an emergency. Transponder chips are utilized in more recent models of keys to control various aspects of the vehicle, like locking and unlocking, switching on and off, and other functions. The chips have to be programmed by a special machine, which is generally only available at certain dealerships.

A local locksmith can help you if you need a spare key for these vehicles. They'll need the year and model of your vehicle and other details to confirm that you are the owner (like the registration number on your car or title). Certain locksmiths can create these keys on the spot, saving you time from visiting an agent.

The dealership is your best option if there isn't an extra. They are the most familiar with your car's model and the keys needed to get it started. This can be expensive, but they won't be able to provide assistance on the road.

Try using a Bluetooth key tracker for an affordable alternative. These devices attach to your key ring and emit a signal that you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app can then show you where your keys are, aiding you in finding them, and stop them from getting lost in the first place!

Get a new key

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

There are, however, options for you to get new keys in the event that you've lost the original. The procedure is dependent on the kind of key you have and the vehicle you are using.

If you have an ignition lock key for a cylinder, for instance, it is relatively easy to have a locksmith local to make a new one right on the spot. This option costs less than $200 and is often quicker than getting one from the dealer.

You will need to visit the dealer if you have a remote key with an external transmitter. The dealer will find your information and send you the correct key for a lower cost than what you would pay locksmith.

If you have evidence of ownership like a registration or title, a locksmith may be able to make an entirely new key with your VIN. This is a less expensive alternative to visiting a dealership, but it's not always possible if you have a newer or more expensive car.

It is recommended to keep a spare set of keys. Keep it in a safe location, like your home, so that you don't need to worry about losing it 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 places you wouldn't typically reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you wear runners. Be sure to check the trunk of your car, if you've put the keys down there. It's easy to forget you left them there and they can easily get taken away if someone else drives off in your car.