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 frequently than people think and can be a big inconvenience.

Fortunately, replacing lost car keys is relatively easy depending on the 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 a hassle to lose your car keys, particularly if it occurs during a busy time of the day when you're required to be somewhere. It's not the worst thing that can happen. There are a variety of ways to locate your car key replacement.

You should first retrace all your steps. You can do this by going back to the places where you've been to and taking a look around, at both home and at work. This will give you an idea of the last location you've seen your keys and can lead you to the location they might be.

If you still can't locate your car keys, call an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area for assistance. They'll be able to make the new key for you and decode the locks that are already in your vehicle, so that only the new key can start it. They'll also erase the old key from your vehicle's system, so should someone manage to obtain it the key, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.

Be sure to have your VIN handy prior to contacting the locksmith or dealer. This number is found on the driver's door or on the dashboard. It will allow them to know what vehicle you drive and they will be able to create keys that are compatible with.

Memory Exercises

If you've lost key what to do your car keys, you could feel panicky. But try to keep your cool. This will allow you to think clearly and conduct a thorough search. Close your eyes and relax. Then utilize your memory to remember the last time you saw your keys. If you can't remember where your keys were, retrace the steps and search for clues.

If you're unable to solve the problem, contact a local locksmith or dealer for assistance. You'll be required to provide details about your car and its security system, and Replacing Lost Car Keys they'll be able create a new key that will pair with your security chip. They'll also be able to give you tips on how to avoid the loss of your keys in the future.

Verify Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

It wasn't long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car were not a huge issue. Call your local locksmith and obtain a new car key. As cars become more advanced and sophisticated, so have their keys become more difficult and expensive to replace. This is why it's crucial to always keep an extra key in your car, or at least know the amount your car dealer will charge for a replacement in the event that you lose one.

It is important to first determine if the key is really missing. This is done by checking the pockets of the pants or jacket you were wearing when you last used your car, or looking in the backseat of your vehicle as well as checking out places you wouldn't usually look like the inside of a shoe or purse. Look through your owner's manual to determine if there are any specific instructions on how to reset the key in case it stops working.

If you've checked everything and still can't locate your car keys, it's time to get a professional for the replacement. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional keys, key fobs or switchblade), it will cost you anywhere from $50-$200 to purchase a new one. If you have a conventional key, the locksmith will usually cut a new one and change it's programming to fit your vehicle. This is a less expensive alternative than paying the dealer, who could charge up to $320 for a new key.

You'll have to contact your dealer and request that your vehicle towing for them to order a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. Then, they will have to pair the new key with your vehicle's computer this could be a costly and time-consuming process. This is why it's a good idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance policy, so that you will have the assistance of a professional should you ever need it!

Verify the security system of your vehicle.

No secret is that many modern vehicles are fitted with sophisticated security features to safeguard the contents of the car from theft. These features can make it more difficult to replace keys for your car. It's still possible to get keys for replacement for these cars, however the process is more complex and expensive. The cost will be according to the kind of key your vehicle is using, and you must be aware of before getting one made.

The most straightforward type of car key you can make a spare for is the classic double-edged key which can be re-used at any hardware store, locksmith or car dealership. It will typically cost less than $10 and be a perfect backup or to start the car in case of emergency. Transponder chips are employed in the most recent models of keys for cars to control various aspects of the vehicle, like locking and unlocking, turning off and on, and other functions. These chips need to be programmed using a special machine that is available only at certain dealerships.

If you're looking to create a spare for these more advanced types of automobiles, a locksmith in your area will be able to assist. They will need to know the year and model of your car as well as other information to verify that you are the owner (like your car registration number or title). Certain locksmiths can create these keys on-site which will save you time from needing to visit dealers.

The dealership is the best option if you don't have a spare. They are the best person to talk to because they are familiar with the car and the keys you require to start it. It could be costly and they may not be available for roadside assistance.

Try using a Bluetooth key tracker for an affordable alternative. These devices attach to your key ring, and emit a signal you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then inform you where your keys are located, helping you locate them, and stop them from being lost in the first place!

Find a new key

Everybody loses their keys at some time or another. It can happen at the most awkward times, like at a gas station, or loading groceries into your trunk. Although it's simple to locate your keys lost for car again, this can be a stressful experience if you don't have a spare set at home or with friends.

There are ways to obtain a replacement key in case you've lost your original. The process is different based on your type of key and vehicle.

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

You'll need to visit the dealer if you own remote keys that have an external transmitter. The dealership will be able to locate your details and provide you with the correct key for a much lower price than what to do if lost car keys you would pay when you visit a locksmith.

If you have proof of ownership, such as a registration or title or a certificate of ownership, a locksmith might be able to make keys using your VIN. This is a less expensive alternative to going to an auto dealer however, it's not always possible when you own a brand new or more expensive vehicle.

The best way to prevent losing your keys is by having an extra. Keep it in a safe location, such as your home, so you do not have to worry about losing it when you leave your car. Make sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, especially if wear a coat or jacket with large pockets. Check places you might 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've put the keys in there. It's easy for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be taken when someone drives away in your vehicle.