How to Find Your lost key what to do Car Key Replacement

Everyone loses their car keys at some point or another. It happens more often than most people realize, and it can be a major problem.

Fortunately the replacement of lost key to car 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 get the most basic keys made at the local hardware store.

Retract your Steps

The loss of your car keys can be frustrating, especially when it happens at a hectic time of the day when you need to get somewhere. However, it's not the end of the world and there are a number of ways to help you locate your car key replacement.

The first thing you have to do is retrace your steps. This means going back to the places you've visited and looking around at home and work. This will help you locate the keys by noting where you last seen them.

If you are unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll need to contact an area locksmith or dealership for assistance. They'll be able create a new key for you, and decode the existing locks on your vehicle so that only the new key is able to start it. They'll also remove the old key to ensure that if anyone does manage to get it, they aren't able to drive your car.

Before you call an expert locksmith or dealer, make sure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) available. It's located on your driver's dashboard or door panel and will inform them of the car you own so they can create keys that match.

Using Your Memory

If you lose your car keys, you could be anxious. But try to keep your cool. This will help you think clearly and search more thoroughly. Relax your eyes and close them. Then you can use your memory to recall the last time you saw your keys. If you're struggling to remember where they were, retrace your steps once more and look for any clues that could have been discovered.

If you're experiencing issues, call an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area to get help. You'll have to provide them with details about your vehicle and the security system it has and they'll be able make a replacement key that will pair with your security chip. They'll also provide tips on how to avoid any future loss of keys.

Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

It wasn't long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a major issue. You could just call your local locksmith and get a new key made. As cars have become more sophisticated, so have their keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and more expensive. It's important to have an extra car key or to be aware of the cost of Replacing Lost Car Key it in case you lose yours.

The first thing to do when you lose a car key is to make sure that the key you lost is actually missing. This can be done by checking the pockets of the clothing that you wore last time you used your car, or looking at the back of your car as well as checking out areas you don't normally see like the inside of a shoe or a purse. Look through your owner's manual to see if it has any specific instructions on how to reset your key if it becomes dead.

If you've tried all the possibilities but are still unable to locate your car keys, it's time to call a professional for the replacement. The cost of a new one will range from $50 to $200 depending on the type you have. If you own a traditional key, the locksmith will usually cut a new one and change it's programming to fit your vehicle. This is a much cheaper alternative than paying the dealer, who may charge up to $320 for a new key.

For a key fob or switchblade key, you'll have to call your dealership and have your vehicle towed to them to purchase a new key for your vehicle that is based on the VIN. Then, they'll need to connect your new key to the vehicle electronically. This can be a costly and time-consuming procedure. This is why it's a good idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance, so you can get the assistance of an expert if you ever need it!

Verify the security system of your vehicle.

It's no secret that many modern vehicles are fitted with sophisticated security features to ensure that the car's contents are safe from thieves. While these security features are generally an excellent thing, they can also make the car keys more difficult to replace. It is still possible to obtain an alternative key for these vehicles, but the process is more complicated and expensive. The cost of the new key will be contingent on the type of vehicle you own. You should be aware of this prior ordering one.

The classic double-edged car keys can be converted into a spare key at any hardware store or at a dealership. It is usually less than $10 and be a perfect backup or to start the car in case of emergency. More recent models of cars, however, use transponder chips in the keys to control various aspects of the vehicle from locking and unlocking to turning on and off. These chips need to be programmed with a specific machine that is available only in some dealerships.

A local locksmith can help you if you require a spare key for these advanced cars. They'll need 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 are able to make keys in-person which will save you the hassle of going to a dealer.

If you do not have a spare, the alternative is the dealership. They are the best person to speak to since they know the vehicle and what keys you need to start it. It can be costly and they won't be able to provide roadside assistance.

To get a more affordable alternative, consider a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices connect to your key ring, and emit a signal you can connect with an app on your smartphone. The app will then show you the location of your keys, helping you to find them and preventing them from being lost in the first place!

Get a New Key

Everybody loses their keys at some moment in time. It can happen in the most inconvenient of times, such as at a gas station or while taking groceries out of your trunk. It's not difficult to find your keys however it is stressful if you don't have a spare set of keys at home or replacing lost car key with a companion.

There are, however, options to obtain a new key even if you've lost your original. The procedure will depend on the type of key you have and the vehicle you are using.

For example, if you have a key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder, it's fairly easy to have a locksmith make a replacement on the spot. This is less than $200 and is much quicker than purchasing one from a dealer.

If you have a key fob equipped with an external transmitter, you'll have go to the dealer. The dealer will be able identify your details, and will send you the right key at a lower price than you'd pay locksmith.

A locksmith might also be able create a replacement key with the help of the VIN of your vehicle, so you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title. This is a much cheaper alternative than visiting a dealership. However, it might not be possible when your car is older or expensive.

The best method to avoid losing your keys is by having a spare. Keep it in a safe place, like your house in order to not have to worry about putting it somewhere when you leave your vehicle. Check your pockets and purses often, especially if you have an outer garment or jacket that has large pockets. Examine places that you may not usually reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you wear runners. Finally, be sure to check the trunk of your car if you put the keys down there. It's easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be taken when someone drives away in your vehicle.