How To Replace Car Keys When Lost to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

Every car owner loses their keys at some point or some other time. It happens more frequently than most people realize it can be a major trouble.

It is possible to replace a lost car key lost car keys dependent 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 proof of ownership.

Retract Your Steps

It's frustrating to lose your car keys, particularly when it happens during a hectic time of the day when you need to be somewhere. It's not the worst thing in the world. There are many ways to find your car key replacement.

You must first retrace your steps. You can do this by going back to the places where you've been to and taking a look around, both at home and at work. This will help you find the keys by noting when you last seen them.

If you are still unable to locate your car keys, contact a locksmith or dealership in your area for help. They'll be able to make a new car key for you, and also decode your existing locks so that only the key is able to start the car. They'll also erase the old key from your vehicle's system, so if someone does manage to get their hands on it and steal it, they won't be allowed to drive your car.

Be sure to have your VIN on hand before contacting a dealer 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 create keys that match.

Utilizing Your Memory

If you lose your car keys, you may be anxious. However, try to remain calm. This will enable you to think clearly and conduct a thorough search. Relax your eyes, close your eyes and make use of your memory to remember where you were last able to see your car keys. If you're struggling to remember the exact location, retrace your steps again and look for any clues that could have surfaced.

If you're unable to solve the problem, contact a local locksmith 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 create a replacement key that will pair with your existing security chip. They'll also advise you on preventive measures to avoid future key loss.

Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

Not too long ago losing or misplacing car keys was not a big deal. Call your local locksmith and get a new car key. As cars become more advanced as well, so have keys, making them more expensive and difficult to replace. It's important to have an extra car key or to be aware of the cost of replacing it in case you lose yours.

You must first find out if the key really missing. Examine the pockets of your jacket or pants, the backseat, and other places that you may not normally look like the inside of a purse or shoe. Look through your owner's manual to see if it has any specific instructions on how to reset your key in case it stops working.

If you have checked everything but still cannot find your car keys, it is time to get an expert to get a new one. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional or key fob or switchblade), it will cost you anything from $50 to $200 to buy new keys. If you own a traditional key, the locksmith can usually cut a new one and change it's programming to match your car. This is a much cheaper alternative to paying a dealer, who may charge up to $320 for a new key.

You'll have to contact your dealer and have your vehicle towing to them so they can order a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. They'll then need to connect your new key with the vehicle electronically. This could be costly and a lengthy process. This is why it's a good idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you will have the assistance of an expert if you ever need it!

Make sure your vehicle's security is checked.

No secret is that many modern vehicles are fitted with sophisticated security features to protect the vehicle's content from theft. While these security features are generally beneficial however, they can make keys for cars more difficult to replace. However, it's not impossible to find an alternative key for these vehicles although 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 ordering one.

The easiest type of car key you can make a spare key for is the traditional double-edged key which can be re-used at any hardware store, locksmith or car dealership. It will typically cost less than $10 and work just fine as a backup or to start the car in an emergency. Transponder chips are used in the latest models of keys for cars to control various aspects of the vehicle, how to replace car keys When lost including locking and unlocking, switching off and on, and other functions. The chips have to be programmed using a special machine that is only available at certain dealerships.

When you need to make an additional spare for these advanced models of cars, a locksmith local to you should be able to help. They will need to know the year and model of your vehicle and other information to verify that you are the owner (like your car registration number or title). Certain locksmiths can create these keys on the spot and save you the hassle of visiting a dealer.

The dealership is the best option if you don't own spare. They are the most familiar with your specific car and the keys required to get it running. This could be costly, however, and they won't be able to provide assistance at the roadside.

To get a more affordable alternative, try using a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices are attached to your key ring and emit a signal you can connect to an app on your phone. The app will then display the location of your keys helping you locate the keys and preventing them from getting lost in the first place!

Find a New Key

Everyone loses their keys at some time or another. It can happen in the most unavoidable of situations such as at a gas station or while loading groceries into your trunk. It's not difficult 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 friend.

There are still ways to get a new key in case you've lost your original. The process varies depending on the type of key and the vehicle you are using.

If you have an ignition lock key that is a cylinder, like it's fairly easy to have a locksmith local to make a replacement immediately. This will cost less than $200 and is much faster than buying one from a dealership.

You'll need to go to the dealer if you own remote keys that have an external transmitter. The dealer will locate your information, and will send you the right key for a lower cost than you would pay to locksmith.

A locksmith may also be able create keys for replacement using the VIN of your vehicle, so long as you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title. This is a much cheaper alternative than going to a dealer. However, it may not be possible when your car is older or expensive.

The best method to avoid losing your keys is by having an extra. Keep it in a secure location, such as your home and you won't have to worry about putting it in a place when you leave your vehicle. Make sure to check your purses and pockets often, especially if you wear a coat or jacket with large pockets. Don't forget to look at places you'd never reach, such as the inside of your shoes, especially if you're on runners. Check your trunk to see if you have left keys in there. It's easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They could be stolen when someone drives away in your car.