How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

It's a fact of life that every car owner loses their keys at some time. It happens more than people think and can be a big trouble.

Fortunately the replacement of lost car keys cost car keys can be relatively simple depending on the kind of key you own. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership you can have the most basic keys at the local hardware store.

Retract your steps

The loss of your car keys can be frustrating, especially when it happens at a busy time of the day and you're required to travel. It's not the end of the world and there are a number of ways 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 visited and looking around at home and work. This will help you find the keys by noting when you last was able to see them.

If you are unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps you'll need to contact a local locksmith or dealership to get help. They'll be able to create an entirely new car key for you, and decode your existing locks so that only the key can start the vehicle. They'll also erase the old key off the system of your vehicle, so should someone manage to gain access to it the key, they won't be able to drive your car.

Before you speak to an expert locksmith or dealer, ensure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) available. This number is located on the driver's door panel or on the dashboard. It will allow them to know what vehicle you drive and they will be able to create keys that match.

Memory Exercises

If you lose your car keys, you could be anxious. However, try to keep your cool. This will enable you to think clearly and thoroughly. Close your eyes, relax and make use of your memory to recall where you were last able to see your car keys. If you are unable to remember the location of your keys, retrace the steps and search for clues.

If you're not getting any luck, contact a local locksmith or dealership for assistance. You'll need to provide them with specific details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll then be able create keys that match your security chip. They'll also provide tips on how to avoid future key losses.

Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

Not too long ago the idea of losing or misplacing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. Contact your local locksmith to find a replacement car key. As cars evolved and so have their keys. This makes them harder to replace and more expensive. It's important to have a spare car key or to be aware of the cost of replacing it in the event that you lose yours.

The first thing you need to do when you lose your car keys is to make sure that the key you lost is actually missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the clothing that you wore last time you used your car, looking in the backseat of your vehicle or even looking in places that you would not normally look like the inside of a shoe or a purse. You should also go through your owner's manual and determine if there are specific instructions for the kind of key you own, lost car key replacement such as how to reset it in the event that it dies.

If you've tried everything but still haven't found your car keys, then it's time to contact a professional to get a new key. The cost of a new key can range from $50 to $200 based on the type you own. If you have a conventional key, the locksmith can typically cut a new key and change it's programming to match your car. This is less expensive than the dealer's prices, which can cost as much as $320 to replace lost car key the lost key.

For a key fob or switchblade key, you'll need to contact your dealer and have your vehicle towed to them to order the new key for your vehicle in accordance with the VIN. Then, they'll have to connect the new key with your vehicle electronically this can be an expensive and time-consuming procedure. This is why it's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance policy, so that you can get the assistance of an expert if you ever require it!

Verify the security system of your vehicle.

It's no secret that a lot of modern cars come with fancy security features that are designed to keep the vehicle's contents safe from theft. Although these features are typically beneficial, they can also make the car keys more difficult to replace. There is still a possibility of getting an alternative key for these cars, but the process is more difficult and expensive. The exact cost will vary based on the type of key your car uses, which you should be aware of prior to getting one made.

The easiest type of car key to make a spare for is the classic double-edged key that can be purchased at any locksmith, hardware store, or car dealership. It is usually less than $10 and work just fine as a backup or to start the car in an emergency. Transponder chips are utilized in more recent models of keys to control various aspects of the vehicle, such as locking and unlocking, switching off and on, and other functions. The chips have to be programmed with a specific device that is only available in some dealerships.

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

If you don't have a spare car, the alternative is the dealership. They are the best person to speak to since they know the car and the keys you need to start it. This can be costly, but they won't be available for roadside assistance.

If you want a less expensive alternative, consider a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices are attached to your key ring and emit signals that you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will display the location of your keys helping you to find them and prevent them from getting lost in the first instance!

Find a New Key

Everybody loses their keys at some moment in time. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as at a station or loading groceries into your trunk. It is not difficult to locate your keys, but it can be stressful if don't have a spare set of keys at home or with a companion.

There are still options to obtain new keys if you have lost the original. The procedure varies based on your type of key and the vehicle you are using.

For example, if you have a traditional key that fits into an ignition lock cylinder it's relatively simple to have a locksmith make an immediate replacement. This will cost less than $200, and is often quicker than getting one from a dealership.

If you have a key fob that has an external transmitter, however you'll have to go to the dealer. The dealer will be able to find your information and send you the right key at a lower cost than if you went to an locksmith.

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

It is advisable to have a spare set keys. Place it in a secure location, such as your home, so that you don't have to worry about leaving it in a place when you leave your vehicle. It is also essential to check your purses and pockets regularly particularly if you are wearing a coat or jacket with large pockets. Examine places that you may not typically reach, such as the inside of your shoes in the event that you wear runners. Also, make sure to check the trunk of your car if you put keys there. It's easy to forget that you put them in there and they're easily stolen if someone else takes off in your vehicle.