How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

It's a fact that every car owner loses their keys at some time. It happens more often than people think, however, and it can be a big problem.

It is possible to replace lost car key how to replace car keys dependent on the type of key that you own. The most basic keys can be made at the local hardware store if you have the VIN number or evidence of ownership.

Retract Your Steps

It's extremely frustrating to lose your car keys, especially if it happens during a hectic period 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 locate your car key replacement.

You should first retrace all your steps. This can be done by returning to the places you've been and looking around, at both home and at work. This will help you locate the keys by telling you where you last seen them.

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

Be sure to have your VIN in hand prior to contacting the locksmith or dealer. This is the number located on your driver's side dashboard or door, and it will allow them to know what vehicle you own so that they can create keys that match.

Making Use of Your Memory

If you've lost your car keys, you may feel panicky. However, try to remain calm. This will allow you to think clearly and conduct a thorough search. Close your eyes, relax and make use of your memory to recall where you were last able to see your car keys. If you're struggling to remember where they were, retrace your steps and search for any clues that may have been discovered.

If you're having no luck try contacting a locksmith in your area or dealership for assistance. You'll need to provide them with details about your vehicle and the security system that it uses and they'll be able make a replacement key that will pair with your security chip. They'll also be able to give you suggestions on how to prevent any future loss of keys.

Verify Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

A few years ago losing or misplacing car keys wasn't a huge issue. You could just call your local locksmith and have a new key made. However, as cars have become more advanced as well, so have keys becoming more expensive and difficult to replace. It's important to have an extra car key or to know the cost of a replacement in the event that you lose yours.

It is important to first see if the key is really missing. This can be done by checking the pockets of the jacket or pants you wore when you last used your car, or looking at the back of your vehicle, and even checking places that you would not normally look like the inside of a shoe or purse. Also, you should check your owner's manual to determine if there are specific instructions for the type of key you have, such as how to reset it in the event that it goes dead.

If you've tried everything but still haven't found the car keys, then it's time to call a professional to get an alternative key. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional or key fob or switchblade) it can cost you anywhere from $50 to $200 to get new keys. If you have a traditional key, you can get the locksmith to make a new key and reprogram it for your vehicle. This is a much cheaper alternative to paying a dealer, who could charge up to $320 for a replacement key.

For a key fob or switchblade keys, you'll need to call your dealership and have the car towing in to purchase the new key for your vehicle based on the VIN. Then, they'll need to pair your new key to the vehicle electronically. This could be a costly and time-consuming procedure. This is why it's a great idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, 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 a lot of modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features that help keep the vehicle's contents safe from theft. These features make it harder to replace the car keys. It's not difficult to get an alternative key for these vehicles, though the process is more involved and expensive than in the past. The cost will be depending on the type of key your vehicle uses, which you should be aware of before getting one made.

The easiest kind of car key to create a spare key for is the classic double-edged key that can be replaced at any hardware store, locksmith, or car dealership. It is usually less than $10 and be a perfect backup or to start the car in case of emergency. More recent models of cars, however utilize transponder chips inside the keys to control various aspects of the car, from locking and unlocking to turning on and starting. These chips must be programmed with a specific device that is only available at certain dealerships.

When you need to make an extra for these more sophisticated cars, a locksmith local to you should be able to help. They will require the model and year of the car, along with some other details (like your registration number or your title) to verify that they are the owner. Certain locksmiths can create keys on site, saving you time from needing to visit an agent.

The dealership is your best option if there isn't spare. They are the best person to speak to since they know your car and what keys you need to start it. It can be costly and they may not be available for roadside assistance.

To get a more affordable alternative, try using a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices clip onto your key ring and emit a signal that you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then inform you where your keys are, aiding you in finding them and prevent them from being lost in the first place!

Get a New Key

Everybody loses their keys at some point. It can happen at the most inconvenient of times like at a gasstation or when loading groceries into your car. Although it's easy to find your keys again, it could be a very stressful situation when you don't have an extra set at home or with your family.

Fortunately, there are still alternatives to purchase new keys even if you've lost key what To do your original. The process is different based on the kind of key and your vehicle.

For instance, if you have a traditional key that is inserted into an ignition lock cylinder, it's easy to get a locksmith to make a replacement on the spot. This will cost less than $200, and it's usually quicker than buying one from a dealership.

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

A locksmith might also be able create keys for replacement by using the VIN of your vehicle, Lost key What To do so you have evidence of ownership like your registration or title. This is a less expensive alternative to going to an auto dealer however it's not always possible when you own a brand new or more expensive vehicle.

It is advisable to keep a spare set of keys. Place it in a secure location, such as your home in order to not have to worry about leaving it in a place when you leave your vehicle. It's also important to check the pockets and purses frequently especially if you're wearing a jacket or coat with large pockets. Examine places that you may not usually reach, such as the inside of your shoe if you wear runners. Make sure you check your trunk if have put your keys in there. It's easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be taken if someone drives away in your car.