How to Find Your Lost Car Key replacement lost car keys

Every car owner loses their keys at one time or some other time. It happens more frequently than people think, however it can be a major hassle.

Fortunately replacing car keys lost is relatively easy, depending on what type of key you own. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership, you can get the most basic keys made at the local hardware store.

Retract your steps

It's frustrating to lose your car keys, particularly when it occurs during a busy period of time when you have to go somewhere. It's not the most unpleasant thing that can happen. There are a variety of ways to find your car key replacement.

The first thing you need to do is retrace your steps. You can do this by returning to the places you've been and taking a look around, at both your home and work. This will give you a good idea of the last place you recalled seeing your keys, and may guide you to where they might be.

If you're unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll want to call an area locksmith or dealership for assistance. They'll be able to create a new car keys for you, and decode your existing locks so that only the key is able to start the vehicle. They'll also erase the old key out of your vehicle's system, meaning that if someone does manage to gain access to it the key, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.

Be sure to have your VIN on hand Car keys lost prior to contacting an agent or locksmith. It's located on your driver's side dashboard or door panel and will allow them to know what vehicle you own so that they can create an appropriate key for your vehicle.

Utilizing Your Memory

If you've lost your car keys, you could be anxious. But try to remain calm. This will enable you to think clearly and search thoroughly. Close your eyes and relax. Then you can use your memory to remember the last time you saw your keys. If you're unable to recall where you put your keys then retrace your steps and look for clues.

If you are still having trouble, contact an authorized locksmith or a dealership in your area for help. You'll be required to provide details about your vehicle and the security system it has and they'll be able make a replacement key that will pair with your existing security chip. They can also give you tips on how to avoid the loss of your keys in the future.

Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big problem. Call your local locksmith to find a replacement car key. However, as cars have become more high-tech, so too have their keys, making them more expensive and difficult to replace. This is why it's crucial to keep an extra key in your car or at a minimum, know how much the dealership for your car will charge for a replacement if you lose one.

The first thing to do when you lose a car key is to ensure that the key you lost is indeed missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the pants or jacket you were wearing when you last used your car, or looking inside the back seat of your vehicle as well as checking out areas you don't normally see like the inside of a shoe or a purse. It is also advisable to go through your owner's manual and see if there are any specific instructions for the type of key you own, such as how to reset it in the event that it goes dead.

If you have checked everything and still can't locate your car keys, it's time to call a professional for the replacement. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional or key fob or switchblade) it can cost you anywhere from $50 to $200 to get an alternative one. If you have a conventional key, a locksmith can usually cut a new one and reprogram it to fit your vehicle. This is a cheaper alternative to paying the dealer, who could charge up to $320 for a replacement key.

You'll need to contact your dealer and have your vehicle towing for them to order a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. They'll then need to connect your new key with your vehicle electronically. This can be costly and a lengthy procedure. This is why it's a great idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance policy, so that you can get the assistance of a professional if you ever require it!

Make sure your vehicle's security is checked.

It's no secret that many modern vehicles are fitted with sophisticated security features to safeguard the contents of the car from thieves. These security features can make it more difficult to replace car keys. However, it's not impossible to obtain a new key for these vehicles, though the process is more complicated and costly than it was in the past. The cost of the new key will be contingent on the type of vehicle you own. It is important to be aware of this prior ordering one.

The most straightforward type of car key you can make a spare key for is the traditional double-edged key that can be replaced at any hardware store, locksmith, or car dealership. It is usually less than $10 and will be a perfect backup or to start the car in case of emergency. Transponder chips are utilized in more recent models of car keys to control different aspects of the vehicle, such as locking and unlocking, turning on and off, and other functions. The chips have to be programmed with a special machine, which is typically only available at certain dealerships.

A local locksmith can help you with a spare key for these cars. They will need to know the year and model of your car as well as other information to verify that you're the owner (like the registration number of your car or title). Some locksmiths are able to make keys on the spot, saving you the time of having to visit an agent.

If you don't have a spare, the alternative is the dealership. They are the best place to ask because they know your car and what keys you need to start it. This can be costly, however, and they will not be open for assistance on the road.

Try a Bluetooth key tracker for an alternative that is affordable. These devices are attached to your key ring and emit an audio signal that you can then connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then provide you with the location of your keys helping you locate them and preventing them from getting lost in the first place!

Get a new key

Everyone loses their keys at some moment in time. It can happen at the most inconvenient times, such as at a station or loading groceries into your trunk. Although it's simple to find your keys again, it could be a very stressful situation if you don't have an extra set at home or with your family.

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

If you own an ignition lock key that is a cylinder, like it's relatively simple to have a local locksmith create a new one immediately. This will cost less than $200 and is often quicker than getting one from a dealership.

You'll need to go to the dealer if you have an electronic remote with an external transmitter. The dealer will be able find your information and will send you the right key at a cheaper price than what you would pay a locksmith.

A locksmith may also be able to make a replacement key using the VIN of your vehicle, so long as you have evidence of ownership like your registration or title. This is a less expensive alternative to going to the dealership however, it's not always possible when you own a newer or more expensive vehicle.

It is recommended to have a spare set keys. Keep it in a secure place, like your house and you won't have to worry about leaving it somewhere when you leave your vehicle. 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 you wouldn't normally reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you have on runners. Be sure to double-check the trunk of your car if you put the keys in there. It's easy to forget you put them there, and they're easily stolen if a driver leaves in your car.