How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

It's a fact of life that we all lose car keys at some moment in time. It happens more often than people think, lost key to My car however it can be a huge problem.

It is possible to replace lost car keys depending on the type of key that you own. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership then you can get the most basic keys at your local hardware store.

Retract Your Steps

It's extremely frustrating to lose your car key lost what to do keys, especially if it happens during a busy period of the day when you're required to be somewhere. It's not the end of the world and there are a number of ways to help you find your lost key to my car car key replacement.

The first thing to do is to retrace your steps. This can be done by returning to the places where you've been and looking around, both at your home and work. This will help you locate the keys, telling you the last time you was able to see them.

If you're still having trouble finding your car keys lost replacement keys, contact a locksmith or a dealership in your area for assistance. They will be able create a new car keys for you, and will decode your existing locks so that only the key will be able to start the car. They'll also erase the old key to ensure that if anyone does manage to steal it, they aren't able to drive your car.

Make sure you have your VIN handy before contacting an agent or locksmith. The VIN is on the driver's door or on the dashboard. It will inform them of the car you own, so they can make a key that matches.

Memory Exercises

You may be tempted to panic at the thought of losing your car keys However, be calm. This will allow you to think clearly and look more deeply. Close your eyes, relax and use the power of your memory to recall the exact location you last found your car keys the last time. If you're unable to recall where your keys were, retrace the steps and search for clues.

If you're still having trouble, contact an auto locksmith or a dealership near you for assistance. You'll have to give them specific details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll then be able create a new key that matches your existing security chip. They'll also advise you on preventive measures to avoid future key loss.

Verify Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

Not too long ago losing or misplacing car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could just contact your local locksmith and have a new key made. As cars have evolved, so have their keys. This makes them harder to replace and also more expensive. It's important to have a spare car key or to know the cost of replacing it in the event that you lose yours.

It is important to first find out if the key really missing. Check the pockets of your jacket or pants along with the backseat and other places that you may not normally look, such as the inside of your purse or shoe. Also, you should go through your owner's manual and see if there are any specific instructions for the kind of key you have, such as how to reset it if it goes dead.

If you've done everything you can and you are still unable to locate the car keys, then it's time to call an expert to request a new key. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional, key fob or switchblade) it could cost you between $50-$200 to purchase a new one. If you own a traditional key, the locksmith can usually cut a new one and reprogram it to match your car. This is a cheaper alternative to paying the dealer, who can charge up to $320 for a replacement key.

You'll have to contact your dealer and have your vehicle towing by them to allow them to purchase a new VIN-based keys for your vehicle. They will then have to pair your new key to the vehicle electronically. This can be a costly and lengthy process. It's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy so that you can receive expert assistance if you need it!

Verify the security system of your vehicle.

It's no secret that a lot of modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features that are designed to keep the vehicle's contents safe from thieves. These security features can make it more difficult to replace keys for your car. There is still a possibility of getting a replacement key for these cars, however the process is more complicated and costly. The exact cost will vary based on the kind of key your vehicle is using, and you must be aware of prior to getting one made.

The easiest kind of car key to make a spare key for is the classic double-edged car key that can be replaced at any hardware store, locksmith, or car dealership. It typically costs less than $10 and will be a perfect backup or to start the car in the event of an emergency. Modern models of cars, however incorporate transponder chips into the keys to control various aspects of the car including locking and unlocking to turning on and starting. These chips must be programmed with a specific machine that is only available at certain dealerships.

A locksmith near you can assist you with a spare key for these advanced cars. They'll need the year and model of your vehicle and other details to confirm that you're the owner (like the registration number on your car or title). Certain locksmiths can create these keys on the spot which will save you time from having to visit an agent.

If you do not have a spare, the next best option is the dealership. They are the best people to speak to since they know the car and the keys you require to start it. This can be expensive, however, and they won't be open for roadside assistance.

Try a Bluetooth key tracker as an alternative that is affordable. These devices connect to your key ring, and emit an audio signal that you can then connect with an app on your smartphone. The app can then show you where your keys are, helping you find them and preventing them from getting lost in the first place!

Get a New Key

Everybody loses their keys at some time or another. It can happen in the most awkward of places like at a gas station or while loading groceries into your trunk. Although it's simple to find your keys again, this can be a very stressful situation when you don't have a spare set in your home or with friends.

Fortunately, there are still options for you to get new keys in the event that you've lost the original. The process depends on the type of key you own and your vehicle.

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

You'll need to go to the dealer if you own an electronic remote with an external transmitter. The dealer will be able to locate your details and provide you with the right key at a lower cost than you would pay if you went to locksmith.

If you have evidence of ownership such as an official title or registration or a certificate of ownership, a locksmith might be able to create an entirely new key with your VIN. This is a less expensive alternative to visiting the dealership however it's not always feasible if you own a newer or more expensive vehicle.

It is advisable to have a spare set keys. Keep it in a safe place, like your house and you won't have to worry about leaving it in the event that you leave your vehicle. Be sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, particularly if you wear an outer garment or jacket that has large pockets. Be sure to check the places you'd never reach, like the inside of your shoes if you are on runners. Also, make sure to double-check the trunk of your car, if you've put the keys down there. It's easy to forget that you put them there, and they're easily stolen if a driver takes off in your vehicle.