How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

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

Fortunately replacing car keys lost is relatively easy, depending on what 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 a hassle to lose your car keys, especially if it occurs during a busy period of time when you need to be somewhere. However, it's not the end of the world and there are a number of steps you can take to help you find your lost car key replacement.

It is recommended to retrace your steps. This means going back through the places you've been and looking around at home as well as at work. This will give you an idea of the last location you've seen your keys and could guide you to where they could be.

If you can't find your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll want to call an area locksmith or dealership to get help. They'll be able to make an entirely new key for you and also decode the locks on your vehicle to ensure that only the new key can start it. They'll also remove the old key, so that if anyone manages to steal it, they aren't able to drive your vehicle.

Before you call a locksmith or dealer ensure you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) in your pocket. This number is found on the door of the driver or on the dashboard. It will inform them of the car you own and they will be able to create keys that match.

Utilizing Your Memory

You might be tempted to fear losing your car keys However, keep your cool. This will enable you to think clearly and thoroughly. Relax your eyes, close your eyes and utilize the power of your memory to recall where you saw your car keys last. If you're having difficulty remembering where they were, retrace your steps and search for any clues that could have been discovered.

If you are experiencing issues, call an authorized locksmith or a dealership near you for assistance. You'll have to give them specific details about your vehicle and keys lost its security system. They'll then create an original key that matches your existing security chip. They'll also provide advice on how to prevent any future loss of keys.

Make sure you have a valid vehicle Identification (VIN).

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing or losing your car keys was not a huge problem. You could call your local locksmith and have a new key made. As cars become more sophisticated, so have their keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and costlier. This is why it's essential to keep an extra key in your car, or at least know how much your car dealer will charge you to replace it if you lose one.

You should first check to determine if the key is really missing. This is done by checking the pockets of the clothing that you wore last time you used your car, or looking at the back of your vehicle or even looking in areas you don't normally see like the inside of a shoe or a purse. You should also go through your owner's manual and see if there are any specific instructions for the kind of key you have for example, how to reset it if it goes dead.

If you've checked everything and still can't find your car keys, you should contact an expert to request an alternative key. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional keys, key fobs, or switchblade), it will cost you anything from $50 to $200 to buy an alternative one. If you own an old-fashioned key, you can get the locksmith to make a new key and reprogram it to 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 call your dealer and get your vehicle towed by them to allow them to purchase a new VIN-based keys for your vehicle. Then, they'll need to connect your new key to the vehicle electronically. This could be a costly and lengthy procedure. It's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy to ensure that you receive assistance from a professional if needed!

Verify the security system of your vehicle.

It's not a secret that a lot of modern cars come with fancy security features that are designed to protect the contents of the car from theft. These features can make it more difficult to replace car keys. Fortunately, it's not impossible to get an alternative key for these vehicles, though the process is more complex and expensive than in the past. The cost will be depending on the type of key your vehicle has, and this is something you need to be aware of before getting one made.

The classic double-edged car key can be made into a spare by visiting any hardware store or dealership. The cost is usually less than $10 and will work perfectly as a backup key or to start your car in a dire situation. More recent models of automobiles, however, utilize transponder chips inside the keys to control various aspects of the vehicle including locking and unlocking to switching on and turning off. These chips need to be programmed with a specific device that is only available at certain dealerships.

When you need to make an additional spare for these sophisticated cars, keys lost a local locksmith is likely to be able. They will need the model and year of the car and other details (like your registration number or your title) to verify that they are the owner. Certain locksmiths are capable of making these keys onsite, saving you the time of having to go to a dealer.

The dealership is your best option if there isn't a spare. They are the best place to talk to because they are familiar with the car and the keys you'll need to get started with it. It can be expensive and they won't be able to assist you on the road.

Try an Bluetooth key tracker as an alternative that is affordable. These devices clip onto your key ring and emit a signal that you can then connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will display the location of your keys helping you to find them and preventing them from being lost in the first instance!

Get a New Key

Every car owner loses their keys at one time or another. It happens at the most inconvenient times, while at a gas station or loading groceries into your trunk. Although it's easy to find your keys once again, it can be a stressful experience in the event that you don't have a spare set in your home or with friends.

There are still alternatives to purchase an alternative key in the event that you've lost car key with no spare the original. The process varies depending on your type of key and vehicle.

If you own an ignition lock cylinder key, for example, it is relatively easy to have a locksmith local to make a new one right on the spot. This will cost less than $200, and it's typically quicker than purchasing one from the dealer.

You will need to visit the dealer if you have an electronic remote with an external transmitter. The dealer will locate your information, and send you the correct key at a cheaper price than you'd pay locksmith.

A locksmith may also be able to make a replacement key using the VIN of your vehicle, so long as you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title. This is a less expensive alternative to visiting a dealership however, it's not always feasible if you have a newer or more expensive vehicle.

The best method to avoid losing your keys is by having an extra. Place it in a safe location, such as your home, so you don't have to worry about losing it if you leave your vehicle. Be sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, particularly if you have a coat or jacket with large pockets. Check places you might not normally reach, like the inside of your shoes when you wear shoes. Be sure to check the trunk of your car, if you've put the keys in there. It's easy for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be stolen if someone drives away in your car.