How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

Everyone loses their car keys at some point or some other time. It happens more often than most people realize it can be a major problem.

It is possible to replace lost car keys, dependent on the type of key that you own. The most basic keys can be made at an area hardware store, provided 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 the day when you need to be somewhere. Fortunately, it's not the end of the world and there are a number of steps you can take to help you find your lost car keys lost replacement key replacement.

It is recommended to retrace your steps. This means going back through the places you've been and looking around at home and work. This will give you a good idea of the last location you remember seeing your keys and could help you find the location they might be.

If you are unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps you'll need to call an area locksmith or dealership to get help. They'll be able to make the new key for you, and decode the existing locks on your vehicle, so that only the new key can start it. They will also delete the old key to ensure that if anyone does manage to steal it, they won't be able to use your vehicle.

Be sure to have your VIN in hand prior to contacting the locksmith or dealer. It's found on your driver's side dashboard or door, and it will let them know which car you drive so they can create a new key to match.

Making Use of Your Memory

If you lose your car keys, you could be anxious. However, try to remain calm. This will enable you to concentrate and search thoroughly. Relax your eyes, close your eyes and make use of your memory to recall the location where you last were last able to see your car keys. If you're having difficulty remembering where they were, retrace your steps again and look for any clues that may have surfaced.

If you're having no luck try contacting a locksmith in your area or dealership for assistance. You'll need to provide them with specific details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll then create keys that match your security chip. They'll also advise you on preventive measures to avoid future key loss.

Verify Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).

It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys was not a huge issue. You could simply contact your local locksmith and have a new key made. As cars evolved and sophisticated, so have keys. This makes them harder to replace lost Car key and more expensive. That's why it's important to always have an extra key in your car or at the very least know how much your car dealership will charge you for a replacement in the event that you lose one.

The first thing to do when you lose a car key is to ensure that the lost key is actually missing. Check the pockets in your pants or jacket along with the backseat and other places that you may not normally look, such as the inside of a purse or shoe. You should also go through your owner's manual and see if there are any special instructions for the kind of key you have, such as how to reset it in case it dies.

If you've tried everything but still can't find the car keys, then it's time to contact an expert to obtain an alternative key. The cost of a new key can vary from $50 to more than $200, based on the kind you have. If you own an old-fashioned key, you can usually have the locksmith simply cut a new key and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is less expensive than the dealer's rates which could be as high as $320 to replace the lost key.

For a key fob, or switchblade key, you'll need to call your dealership and have your car towed in for them to order the new key for your vehicle that is based on the VIN. Then, they will have to connect the new key with your vehicle's electronic key which could be a costly and time-consuming process. This is why it's a good idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance policy, so that you will have the assistance of a professional if you ever need to!

Verify the security system of your vehicle.

It's no secret that many modern cars have fancy security features that help keep the contents of the vehicle safe from thieves. While these security features are generally a good thing but they can also make keys for the car more difficult to replace. It is still possible to obtain an alternative key for these vehicles, but the process is more difficult and costly. The exact cost will vary depending on the kind of key your vehicle is using, and you must be aware of prior to having one made.

The classic double-edged car keys can be turned into a spare at any hardware store or dealership. It is usually less than $10 and work just fine as a backup or to start the car in an emergency. Transponder chips are employed in the most recent models of car keys to control different aspects of the vehicle, including locking and unlocking, switching on and off, and other functions. The chips have to be programmed with a specific machine that is available only in some dealerships.

A locksmith near you can assist you if you need an extra key for these cars. They'll need the year and model of your car, as well as some other details to confirm that you are the owner (like the registration number of your car or title). Certain locksmiths can create keys on site which will save you time from needing to visit an agent.

The dealership is the best option if you don't own an extra. They are the best people to speak to since they know the car and the keys you'll need to get started with it. This could be costly however, and they will not be able to provide assistance at the roadside.

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

Get a new key

Every car owner loses their keys at one time or another. It can happen at the most awkward of places like at a gasstation or when loading groceries into your car. It's not difficult to find your keys however it can be stressful if you don't have a spare set of keys at home or with a friend.

Fortunately, there are still options to obtain a new key even if you've lost your original. The procedure varies based on your type of key and vehicle.

If you have an ignition lock key for a cylinder, for instance it's fairly easy to get a locksmith in your area to make a new one immediately. This will cost less than $200, and it's typically quicker than purchasing one from the dealership.

If you have a key fob that has an external transmitter, however you'll need go to the dealer. The dealership will be able locate your information and issue you the right key for a much lower price than when you visit a locksmith.

A locksmith may also be able to make a replacement key by using the VIN number of your car, as long as you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title. This is a cheaper option to visiting a dealership. However, it might not be feasible if your vehicle is newer or has a high price.

The best method to avoid losing your keys is by having a spare. Keep it in a secure place, like your house and you won't need to think about leaving it in the event that you leave your vehicle. Check your pockets and purses frequently, particularly if you wear coats or jackets with large pockets. Be sure to check places you wouldn't usually reach, such as the inside of your shoe when you wear shoes. Check your trunk to see if you have left the keys there. It's easy for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They could be stolen when someone steals your vehicle.