How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

Every car owner loses their keys at one time or some other time. It happens more than people think and is a huge hassle.

Fortunately the replacement of lost car key replacement cost car keys is relatively easy depending on the type of key you own. The most basic keys can be made at an area hardware store, provided you provide the VIN number or evidence of ownership.

Retract Your Steps

It's frustrating to lose your car keys, especially if it occurs during a busy period of time when you need to be somewhere. It's not the end of the world and there are a variety of steps you can take to help you find your lost car key replacement.

The first thing you have to do is to retrace your steps. This can be done by going back to the places where you've been to and taking a look around, both at your home and work. This will help you find the keys, letting you know the last time you seen them.

If you're unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll need to call an area locksmith or dealership for assistance. They will be able create a new car key for you, and will decode your locks to ensure that only the key lost in car is able to start the vehicle. They'll also erase the old key out of the system of your vehicle, so should someone manage to get their hands on it and steal it, they won't be allowed to drive your vehicle.

Make sure you have your VIN in hand before contacting an agent or locksmith. This number is found on the driver's door panel or on the dashboard. It will let them know what car you own, so they can make a key that matches.

Memory Exercises

You may be tempted to panic at the thought of losing your car keys However, keep your cool. This will help you think clearly and look more deeply. Close your eyes, relax and utilize the power of your memory to recall the location where you last found your car keys the last time. If you can't remember where you put your keys you were, go back to the steps and look for clues.

If you're still having issues, contact an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area to get help. You'll be required to provide information about your vehicle and the security system it has, and they'll be able to make a replacement key that will pair with your existing security chip. They'll also be able guide you on steps to prevent key loss.

Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

In the past losing or misplacing car keys wasn't a huge problem. Call your local locksmith and find a replacement car key. As cars evolved and so have their keys. This makes them harder to replace and costlier. This is why it's crucial to always keep an extra key in your car or at a minimum, know how much your car dealer will charge to replace it if you lose one.

The first thing you need to do when you lose a car key is to confirm that the key you lost is indeed missing. Check the pockets in your jacket or pants as well as the back of your car, and other places that you may not normally look, such as the inside of a purse or shoe. Check your owner's guide to determine if there are any specific instructions on how to reset the key if it becomes dead.

If you've tried everything but still haven't found your car keys, it's time to contact a professional to get an alternative key. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional, key fob, or switchblade) it could cost you anywhere from $50-$200 to purchase an alternative one. If you have a traditional key, you can have the locksmith simply cut a new key and reprogram it for your vehicle. This is a cheaper option than the dealer's price which could be as high as $320 to replace keys that have been lost key [why not try here].

For a key fob, or lost key switchblade key, you'll have to contact your dealer and have your car towing in to purchase a new key for your vehicle that is based on the VIN. Then, they'll need to connect the new key to your vehicle electronically, which can be an expensive and time-consuming procedure. This is why it's a good idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you can get the assistance of a professional if you ever need it!

Make sure your vehicle's security is checked.

There is no doubt that modern cars are equipped with advanced security features that protect the vehicle's content from theft. These features can make it difficult to replace car keys. It's still possible to get an alternative key for these cars, however the process is more complex and costly. The cost will be depending on the kind of key your vehicle has, and this is something you need to be aware of prior to getting one made.

The most straightforward type of car key you can create a spare key for is the traditional double-edged key which can be re-used at any locksmith, hardware store, or car dealership. The cost is typically less than $10 and will work perfectly as a backup key or to start your car in a dire situation. The latest models of cars, however use transponder chips in the keys to control different aspects of the vehicle including locking and unlocking to turning on and off. The chips have to be programmed with a special machine, which is generally only available at some dealerships.

If you're looking to create an additional spare for these advanced types of cars, a local locksmith will be able to assist. They will need to know the year and model of your car and other details to confirm that you are the owner (like the registration number of your car or title). Some locksmiths can make these keys on-site, saving you time from needing to visit a dealer.

If you don't have a spare, the alternative is to go to the dealership. They'll be the most knowledgeable about your particular vehicle and the keys required to start it. This can be expensive but they won't be able to provide assistance on the road.

Try using a Bluetooth key tracker as an alternative that is affordable. These devices are attached to your key ring and emit a signal that you can then connect to an app on your phone. The app will show you where your keys are, aiding you in finding them and preventing them from being lost in the first place!

Find a New Key

Everybody loses their keys at some moment in time. It could happen at the most awkward times, like at a station or loading groceries into your trunk. It's not hard to find your keys again, but it is stressful if you do not have an extra set of keys at home or with a friend.

There are, however, options for you to get an alternative key even if you've lost your original. The process varies depending on your kind of key and your vehicle.

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

You'll need to go to the dealer if you have a remote key with an external transmitter. The dealership will be able to find your details and provide you with the correct key at a cheaper price than what you would pay if you went to an locksmith.

A locksmith might also be able to create an alternative key using the VIN number of your car, as long as you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title. This is a much cheaper alternative to visiting a dealership. However, it may not be possible when your car is older or expensive.

It is best to have a spare set keys. Keep it in a secure location, like your home, so that you don't need to worry about losing it if you leave your car. It's also important to inspect pockets and purses regularly, especially if you wear a jacket or coat with large pockets. Be sure to check the places you wouldn't normally reach, such as the inside of your shoes, especially if you're on runners. Check your trunk to see if you have put your keys in there. It's easy to forget that you put them there, and they could easily be stolen if a driver leaves in your car.