How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

It's a fact that every car owner loses their keys at some moment in time. It happens more often than most people realize, and it can be a major problem.

Fortunately replacing car keys lost is fairly simple depending on the type of key you have. The most basic keys can usually be made at the local hardware store if you can provide the VIN number or evidence of ownership.

Retract Your Steps

Losing your car keys can be stressful, especially if it happens at a hectic time of day and you need to get somewhere. However, it's not the end of the world and there are a variety of ways to help you find your lost car key replacement.

The first thing to do is retrace your steps. This means going back through the places you've been to and taking a look around at home as well as at work. This will help you find the keys by noting the last time you was able to see them.

If you're unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps you'll need to call a local locksmith or dealership for assistance. They'll be able create the new key for you and decode the locks on your vehicle to ensure that only the new key can start it. They'll also erase the old key from your vehicle's system, meaning that if someone does manage to get their hands on it, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.

Be sure to have your VIN handy prior to contacting the locksmith or dealer. This is a number that's located on your driver's door panel or dashboard and will let them know which car you drive so they can design a new key to match.

Utilizing Your Memory

You may be tempted to panic at the thought of losing your car keys, but keep your cool. This will allow you to think clearly and search more thoroughly. Close your eyes and take a moment to relax. Then utilize your memory to recall the last time you viewed your keys. If you're struggling to remember where they were, go back your steps again and look for any clues that could have been discovered.

If you're having no luck you can contact a local locksmith or dealership for assistance. You'll need to provide them with details about your car and its security system, and lost keys to Car they'll be able to make a replacement key that can be paired with your security chip. They'll also be able to give you suggestions on how to prevent future key losses.

Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

It wasn't long ago that losing keys to your car were not a major problem. Contact your local locksmith to find a replacement car key. As cars become more sophisticated and so have their keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and also more expensive. This is why it's essential to always keep a spare key on hand or at a minimum, know the amount your car dealer will charge you for a replacement lost car keys if you lose one.

You must first find out if the key really missing. This can be done by checking the pockets of the pants or jacket that you wore last time you used your car, looking in the backseat of your car as well as checking out places you wouldn't usually look like the inside of a shoe or purse. Go through the owner's manual to determine if it contains any specific instructions on how to reset your key if it becomes dead.

If you've checked everything but still cannot find your car keys, it is time to call a professional for the replacement. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional, key fob or switchblade), it will cost you between $50 to $200 to get new keys. If you own a traditional key, the locksmith can typically cut a new key and modify it to fit your vehicle. This is a much cheaper alternative to paying a dealer, who could charge up to $320 for a new key.

You'll need to contact your dealer and get your vehicle towing by them to allow them to obtain 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 to include Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy to allow you to receive assistance from a professional if needed!

Make sure your vehicle's security is checked.

It's no secret that a lot of modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features that are designed to keep the contents of the vehicle safe from theft. These security features can make it difficult to replace the car keys. However, it's not impossible to get an alternative key for these cars, though the process is more involved and costly than in the past. The exact cost will vary depending on the type of key your vehicle is using, and you must be aware of before getting one made.

The easiest type of car key to create a spare key for is the classic double-edged car key that can be replaced at any hardware store, locksmith, or car dealership. The cost is usually less than $10, and it will work perfectly as a backup key to start your car in a dire situation. Transponder chips are used in more recent models of car keys to control different aspects of the vehicle, such as locking and unlocking, switching off and on, and other functions. The chips have to be programmed by a special machine, which is typically only available at certain dealerships.

A local locksmith can help you if you require a spare key for these advanced cars. They'll need the model and year of the car, along with some other information (like your registration number or your title) to confirm that they are the owner of the vehicle. Some locksmiths are able to make keys in-person which will save you the hassle of going to a dealer.

If you don't have a spare, the next best option is the dealership. They are the best place to speak to since they know the vehicle and what keys you need to start it. It could be costly and they may not be available for roadside assistance.

If you want a less expensive alternative, consider a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices attach to your key ring and emit a signal you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app can then show you where your keys are located, aiding you in finding them and preventing them from being lost keys to car (try this out) in the first place!

Find a New Key

Everyone loses their keys at some time 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 again, but it can be stressful if you don't have a spare set of keys at home or with a companion.

There are still alternatives to purchase new keys in the event that you've lost keys in car the original. The procedure will depend on the type of key you own and your vehicle.

For example, if you have a key that fits into an ignition lock cylinder it's easy to have a locksmith create an immediate replacement. This will cost less than $200, and it's usually quicker than buying one from the dealership.

You'll need to go to the dealer if you have an electronic remote with an external transmitter. The dealer will be able identify your details, and send you the correct key at a cheaper price than you'd pay locksmith.

If you have proof of ownership, like a registration or title or a certificate of ownership, a locksmith might be able create keys using your VIN. This is a much less expensive alternative to going to a dealership however it's not always feasible if you own a brand new or more expensive car.

The best way to avoid losing your keys is by having a spare. Place it in a safe place, such as your home, so you don't have to be concerned about losing it when you leave your car. It's also important to check the pockets and purses frequently, especially if you wear a jacket or coat with large pockets. Don't forget to look at places that you would not normally reach, such as the inside of your shoes, especially if you're on runners. Finally, be sure to double-check the trunk of your car if you have put the keys in there. It's easy for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be taken if someone drives away in your car.