How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
Every car owner loses their keys at one point or another. It happens more frequently than most people realize, and it can be a major hassle.
It is possible to replace lost car keys, dependent on the type of key you have. The most basic keys can be made at a local hardware store if you have the VIN number or evidence of ownership.
Retract your steps
It's extremely frustrating to lose your car keys, especially if it occurs during a busy period of time when you're required to be somewhere. However, it's not the end of the world and there are a number of steps you can take to help you locate your car key replacement.
You should first retrace all your steps. This can be done by going back to the places you have been to and taking a look around, both at the workplace and at home. This will give you a good idea of where you've seen your keys, and may lead you to where they could be.
If you still can't locate your car keys, call a locksmith or a dealership in your area 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 can start the vehicle. They will also delete the old key to ensure that if anyone manages to get it, they can't drive your vehicle.
Be sure to have your VIN on hand before contacting the locksmith or dealer. This number is located on the driver's door or dashboard. It will let them know what vehicle you own and they will be able to create keys that match.
Utilizing Your Memory
If you lose your car keys, you might be frightened. However, try to keep your cool. This will help you think clearly and look more thoroughly. 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 are unable to remember where you put your keys you were, go back to the steps and look for clues.
If you are experiencing issues, call a locksmith or dealership near you for assistance. You'll have to provide them with details about your vehicle and the security system that it uses and they'll be able to create a replacement key that can be paired with your security chip. They can also give you advice on how to prevent any future loss of keys.
Make sure you have a valid vehicle Identification (VIN).
A few years ago, misplacing-or losing-your car keys was not a big deal. Contact your local locksmith to obtain a new car key. As cars become more technological as well, so have keys becoming more difficult and expensive to replace. This is why it's crucial to keep an extra key in your car or at a minimum, know the amount the dealership for your car will charge to replace it if you lose one.
The first thing you need to do when you lose your car keys is to make sure that the lost key is actually missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the pants or jacket that you wore last time you used your car, or looking in the backseat of your car or even looking in places that you would not normally look like the inside of a shoe or a purse. Go through the owner's manual to see if it has specific instructions on how to reset your key in case it stops working.
If you've tried everything and still can't locate your car keys, it is time to call a professional for a new one. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional keys, key fobs or switchblade) it could cost you anything from $50-$200 to purchase new keys. If you have an old-fashioned key, you can get the locksmith to make a new key and reprogram it for your vehicle. This is less expensive than the dealer's prices that could be as high as $320 to replace keys that have been lost.
For a key fob or switchblade key, you'll need to contact your dealer and have your car towed in for them to purchase a new key for your vehicle in accordance with the VIN. Then, they will have to pair the new key with your vehicle electronically, which could be a costly and time-consuming procedure. This is why it's a great idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you will have the assistance of a professional if you ever require it!
Check the security system of your car.
It's no secret that many modern cars come with fancy security features that help protect the contents of the car from thieves. Although lost key car are typically an excellent thing however, they can make the car keys more difficult to replace. It is still possible to obtain an alternative key for these cars, however the process is more complex and expensive. The exact cost will differ depending on the type of key your vehicle has, and this is something you need to be aware of prior to getting one made.
The most straightforward type of car key you can make a spare key for is the classic double-edged key which can be re-used at any hardware store, locksmith or car dealership. The cost is typically less than $10, and it can be used as a backup key to start your car in an urgent situation. The latest models of automobiles, however, utilize transponder chips inside the keys to control various aspects of the vehicle from locking and unlocking to turning on and off. The chips have to be programmed with a specific device that is only available in some dealerships.
If you're in need of an additional spare for these sophisticated automobiles, a locksmith in your area will be able to assist. They will need the model and year of the car as well as other details (like your registration number or your title) to prove that they are the owner of the vehicle. Certain locksmiths can create these keys on the spot, saving you time from visiting a dealer.
The dealership is the best option if you don't own spare. They are the best people to talk to because they are familiar with your car and what keys you need to start it. This could be costly, however, and they will not be available for assistance on the road.
For a much more affordable alternative, try using a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices attach to your key ring and emit a signal you can transmit to an app on your smartphone. The app will show you where your keys are, helping you find them, and stop them from getting lost in the first place!
Get a new key
Everybody loses their keys at some time or another. It could happen at the most inconvenient times, such as at a gas station or loading groceries into your trunk. It's not difficult to locate your keys, but it can be stressful if you don't have an extra set of keys at home or with a companion.
There are still options for you to get new keys if you have lost the original. The process depends on the type of key you own and the vehicle you are using.
For instance, if you have a standard key that fits into an ignition lock cylinder, it's fairly easy to get a locksmith to make an immediate replacement. This option is less than $200 and can be done quicker than purchasing a new one from a dealer.
You'll need to visit the dealer if you own a remote key with an external transmitter. The dealer will be able to locate your information, and then send you the correct key at a lower price than you would pay to locksmith.
A locksmith might also be able create keys for replacement by using your car's VIN, as you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title. This is a cheaper option than going to a dealer. However, it may not be possible in the case of a vehicle that is older or costly.
It is best to have a spare set of keys. 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. It's also important to inspect your purses and pockets regularly, especially if you wear an outerwear item with large pockets. Check places you might not usually reach, such as the inside of your shoe if you wear 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 could be stolen if someone drives away in your vehicle.