How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

It's a fact of life that everyone loses car keys at some point. It happens more often than people think, however, and it can be a big hassle.

Fortunately, replacing lost keys lost car keys is fairly simple, depending on what type 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

It's frustrating to lose your car keys, especially if it occurs during a busy period of time when you have to go somewhere. It's not the end of the world, and there are several steps you can take to assist you in finding your lost car key replacement.

The first thing to do is to retrace your steps. You can do this by returning to the places you have been and looking around, at both the workplace and at home. This will give you a good idea of the last place you remember seeing your keys, and may guide you to where they might be.

If you are still unable to locate your car keys, contact an auto locksmith or a dealership nearby for assistance. They'll be able to make a new car key for you, and also decode the locks you have in place so that only the key is able to start the car. They will also delete the old key so that if someone does manage to steal it, they can't drive your vehicle.

Before you call a locksmith or dealer ensure you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) handy. This is the number located on your driver's side dashboard or fobs door panel, and it will let them know which vehicle you own so that they can create keys that match.

Using Your Memory

If you've lost your car keys, you might be frightened. But try to remain calm. This will enable you to concentrate and conduct a thorough search. Relax your eyes, close your eyes and make use of your memory to recall where you found your car keys the last time. If you are unable to remember where you put your keys then retrace your steps and search for clues.

If you're still having trouble, contact a locksmith or dealership in your area to get help. You'll have to give them details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll be able to create keys that match your existing security chip. They'll also be able provide you with preventive measures to avoid future key loss.

Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

It wasn't that long ago that losing keys to your car was not a major problem. Contact your local locksmith to find a replacement car key. However, as cars have become more advanced as well, so have keys become more expensive and difficult to replace. This is why it's crucial to always have a spare key around or at the very least know how much your car dealership will charge you to replace it if you lose one.

You must first find out if the key really missing. Check the pockets in your pants or jacket along with the backseat and other places that you may not normally look, such as the inside of your purse or shoe. It is also advisable to look through the owner's manual to see if there are any special instructions for the kind of key you have for example, how to reset it if it dies.

If you've tried everything but you are still unable to locate your car keys, it's time to contact an expert to obtain a new key. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional keys, key fobs or switchblade) it can cost you anything from $50 to $200 to get a new one. If you own a traditional key, the locksmith will usually cut a new one and change it's programming to match your car. This is a less expensive alternative than paying the dealer, who may charge up to $320 for a replacement key.

You'll need to contact your dealer and request that your vehicle towing by them to allow them to purchase a new VIN-based keys for your vehicle. Then, they'll have to pair the new key to your vehicle's electronic key which is a costly and time-consuming procedure. It's a great idea include Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to your policy to allow you to get expert help if needed!

Make sure your vehicle's security system is working

It's no secret that a lot of modern cars have fancy security features that are designed to protect the contents of the car from theft. These security features can make it difficult to replace keys for your car. It's not difficult to obtain a new key for these vehicles, though the process is more involved and costly than it was in the past. The cost will be according to the kind of key your vehicle has, and this is something you need to be aware of prior to getting one made.

The easiest type of car key to create a spare key for is the classic double-edged car key that can be replaced at any locksmith, hardware store or car dealership. It will typically cost less than $10 and work just fine as a backup or to start the car in case of emergency. The latest models of cars, however utilize transponder chips inside the keys to control different aspects of the vehicle including locking and unlocking to turning on and off. These chips need to be programmed using a specific machine, which is usually only available at some dealerships.

A local locksmith can help you if you require an extra key for these 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 on your car or title). Certain locksmiths are capable of making these keys onsite and save you the hassle of going to an agent.

If you don't have a spare car, the alternative is to go to the dealership. They are the best place to speak to since they know your car and what keys you require to start it. It could be costly and they won't be able to assist you on the road.

Try using a Bluetooth key tracker as an affordable alternative. These devices attach to your key ring, and emit a signal you can connect with an app on your smartphone. The app will then display the location of your keys, helping you locate them and prevent them from being lost in the first instance!

Get a New Key

Everyone loses their car keys at one time or another. It can happen at the most awkward times, like at a gas station or loading groceries into your trunk. It's not hard to find your keys however it can be stressful if don't have a spare set of keys at home or with a companion.

There are, however, alternatives to purchase a new key if you have lost the original. The process varies depending on your type of key and vehicle.

If you have an ignition lock key for a cylinder, for instance it's fairly easy to get a locksmith in your area to make a new one right on the spot. This is less than $200 and is much quicker than purchasing one from a dealership.

If you have a key fob that has an external transmitter, you'll need to go to the dealer. The dealer will be able to find your information and issue you the right key at a lower cost than you would pay when you visit a locksmith.

If you have evidence of ownership, such as an official title or registration, a locksmith may be able to create an entirely new key with your VIN. This is a much cheaper alternative than going to a dealer. However, it may not be possible if your vehicle is newer or expensive.

It is recommended to have a spare set keys. Keep it in a secure place, like your house and you won't need to think about leaving it in the event that you leave your vehicle. Check your pockets and purses frequently, especially if wear an outer garment or jacket that has large pockets. Examine places that you may not typically reach, such as the inside of your shoes in the event that you wear runners. Be sure to check the trunk of your car, Fobs if you've put the keys down there. It's easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They could be stolen when someone drives away in your vehicle.