How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

It's a fact that every car owner loses their keys at some moment in time. It happens more often than people realize, however, and it can be a big hassle.

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

Retract your Steps

The loss of your car keys can be difficult, especially when it happens at a hectic time of the day and you need to get somewhere. It's not the most unpleasant thing that could happen to you. There are a variety of ways to locate your car key replacement.

You must first retrace your steps. This means going back through the places you've visited and looking around at home and work. This will help you locate the keys by telling you when you last saw them.

If you can't find 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 a new car keys for you, and also decode your existing locks so that only the key is able to start the vehicle. They'll also remove the old key from your vehicle's system, meaning that if someone does manage to get their hands on it the key, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.

Be sure to have your VIN handy before you contact an agent or locksmith. This is a number that's located on your driver's side dashboard or door and will inform them of the vehicle you own so that they can create an appropriate key for your vehicle.

Memory Exercises

You might be tempted to panic at the thought of losing your car keys however, keep your cool. This will allow you to think clearly and search more thoroughly. Close your eyes and take a moment to relax. Then, use your memory to remember the last place you saw your keys. If you're unable to recall where you put your keys, retrace the steps and look for clues.

If you're experiencing issues, call an authorized locksmith or a dealership near you for assistance. They'll require 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 be able to guide you on preventive measures to avoid future key loss.

Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car were not a major problem. You could simply call your local locksmith and get a new key made. As cars become more sophisticated and sophisticated, so have keys. This makes them harder to replace and costlier. It's essential 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 to do when you lose your car keys is to confirm that the lost key is actually missing. This is done by checking the pockets of the jacket or pants that you wore last time you used your car, or looking in the backseat of your vehicle or Replacing Lost Car Keys even looking in areas you don't normally see like the inside of a shoe or purse. Look through your owner's manual to see if it has any special instructions on how to replace a lost car key to reset the key if it is dead.

If you've tried everything but still can't find the car keys, then it's time to call an expert to obtain an alternative key. The cost of a new key can vary from $50 to more than $200, based on the kind you own. If you have a standard key, a locksmith can usually cut a new one and modify it to fit your vehicle. This is less expensive than the dealer's prices, which could be as high as $320 to replace a lost key.

For a key fob, or switchblade keys, you'll need to contact your dealer and have your car towed in for them to purchase an additional key for your vehicle that is based on the VIN. Then, they will have to connect the new key to your vehicle's computer which can be an expensive and time-consuming process. It's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to your policy to ensure that you receive assistance from a professional if needed!

Make sure your vehicle's security system is working

It's no secret that many modern cars are equipped with sophisticated security features to ensure that the car's contents are safe from theft. Although these features are typically beneficial however, they can make keys for the car more difficult to replace. It's still possible to get an alternative key for these cars, however the process is more complicated and costly. 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 to purchasing one.

The classic double-edged car key can be made into a spare at any hardware store or dealership. The cost is typically less than $10, and can be used as a backup key to start your car in an emergency situation. More recent models of cars, however utilize transponder chips inside the keys to control different aspects of the car from locking and unlocking to turning on and starting. These chips must be programmed using a special machine that is available only at certain dealerships.

A locksmith in your area can assist you if you require a spare key for these vehicles. They will need to know the year and model of your vehicle, as well as some other details to prove that you're the owner (like the registration number of your car or replacing lost car keys title). Certain locksmiths are capable of making keys in-person and save you the hassle of having to visit dealers.

The dealership is your best option if you don't have an extra. They are the best people to ask because they know the vehicle and what keys you'll need to get started with it. It could be costly and they won't be able to assist you on the road.

Try an Bluetooth key tracker for 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 then display the location of your keys helping you locate the keys and preventing them from being lost in the first instance!

Get a New Key

Every car owner loses their keys at some point or another. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as at a gas station, or loading groceries into your trunk. Even though it is easy to find your keys once again, this can be a very stressful scenario if you don't have a spare set in your home or with your family.

There are ways to obtain a replacement key if you've lost the original. The procedure is dependent on the kind of key you have and your vehicle.

For instance, if you have a standard key that is inserted into an ignition lock cylinder, it's fairly easy to have a locksmith make an immediate replacement. This option costs less than $200, and is usually quicker than buying one from a dealership.

If you have a key fob that has an external transmitter, you'll need to go to the dealer. The dealership will be able locate your details and provide you with the correct key at a lower cost than what you would pay when you visit a locksmith.

A locksmith may also be able to create an alternative key by using the VIN number of your car, as long as you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title. This is a much cheaper alternative than going to a dealer. However, it may not be possible when your car is older or costly.

It is advisable to have a spare set keys. Place it in a secure location, such as your home in order to not have to worry about putting it in a place when you leave your vehicle. Be sure to check your purses and pockets often, especially if you have coats or jackets with large pockets. Be sure to check the places you'd never reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you have on runners. Check your trunk to see if you have put your keys in there. It's easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be stolen when someone drives away in your vehicle.