How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

It's a fact that every car key lost owner loses their keys at some point. It happens more frequently than people realize, however it can be a major trouble.

Fortunately, replacing lost car keys is fairly simple, depending on what type of key you have. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership, you can get the most basic keys made at your local hardware store.

Retract Your Steps

It's frustrating to lose your car keys, particularly if it happens during a hectic period of the day when you have to go somewhere. It's not the most unpleasant thing that could happen to you. There are many ways to find your car key replacement.

The first thing you need to do is go back to where you started. This can be done by going back to the places where you've been and taking a look around, both at home and at work. This will give you an idea of where you've seen your keys, and may help you find where they could be.

If you are unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll need to call an area locksmith or dealership for assistance. They will be able create a new car key for you, and also decode your existing locks so that only the key will be able to start the car. They'll also remove the old key, so that if anyone manages to steal it, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.

Before you contact an expert locksmith or dealer, make sure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) in your pocket. It's found on your driver's side door panel or dashboard, and it will inform them of the car you own so they can design a new key to match.

Memory Exercises

You may be tempted to panic at the thought of losing your car keys However, be calm. This will allow you to concentrate and search thoroughly. Close your eyes, relax and use the power of your memory to remember the location where you last were last able to see your car keys. If you're having trouble remembering where they were, retrace your steps once more and look for any clues that may have been discovered.

If you're not getting any luck you can contact a local locksmith or dealer for assistance. You'll need to provide them with details about your car and its security system and they'll create a new key that can be paired with your existing security chip. They'll also be able to give you suggestions on how to prevent future key losses.

Verify Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys was not a major problem. You could simply call your local locksmith to get a new key made. As cars have become more sophisticated and so have their keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and costlier. This is why it's crucial to always have a spare key on hand or at the very least know how much your car dealer will charge for a replacement if you lose one.

The first thing you need to do when you lose your car keys is to confirm that the key you lost is not actually missing. Check the pockets of your pants or jacket along with the backseat and other places you might not normally go, such as the inside of your purse or shoe. Check your owner's guide to determine if it contains any specific instructions on how to reset the key if it is dead.

If you've checked everything and still can't locate your car keys, it's time to get an expert for the replacement. 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 own a traditional key, the locksmith can usually cut a new one and change it's programming to fit your vehicle. This is less expensive than the dealer's rates, which can be as much as $320 to replace a lost key.

For a key fob, or switchblade key, you'll have to call your dealership and have your car towing in to order the new key for your vehicle based on the VIN. Then, they will have to connect the new key to your vehicle's computer, which is a costly and time-consuming procedure. It's a good idea to include Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy so that you can receive assistance from a professional if needed!

Check the security system of your car.

It's not a secret that many modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features designed to keep the vehicle's contents safe from theft. These security features can make it more difficult to replace keys for your car. Fortunately, it's not impossible to find an alternative key for these vehicles however, the process is more complicated and expensive than in the past. The exact cost will vary depending on the kind of key your vehicle has, and this is something you need to be aware of prior to having one made.

The classic car key with a double edge can be turned into a spare at any hardware store or dealership. The price is typically less than $10, and it can be used as a backup key or to start your car in a dire situation. Transponder chips are employed in more recent models of keys for cars to control various aspects of the vehicle, such as locking and unlocking, turning off and on, and other functions. The chips have to be programmed with a specific device that is only available at certain dealerships.

When you need to make an additional spare for these sophisticated cars, a local locksmith is likely to be able. They'll need the year and model of your vehicle and other details to prove that you are the owner (like your car registration number or title). Some locksmiths are capable of making these keys onsite, saving you the time of having to visit a dealer.

The dealership is your best option if you don't have a spare. They are the best people to ask because they know the car and the keys you require to start it. It can be costly and they may not be available for roadside assistance.

To get a more affordable alternative, try using a Bluetooth key tracker. 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 show you the location of your keys aiding you in finding the keys and preventing them from being lost in the first place!

Get a New Key

Everybody loses their keys at some moment in time. It can happen in the most awkward of places like at a gas station or while loading groceries into your trunk. It is not difficult to locate your keys, but it is stressful if you don't have a spare set of keys at home or with a companion.

There are still ways to get a replacement key in case you've lost key to car your original. The procedure will depend on the type of key you have and the vehicle you are using.

If you own an ignition lock cylinder key, for example it's relatively simple to have a local locksmith make a new one right on the spot. This is less than $200, and is usually quicker than buying one from the dealership.

If you have a key fob with an external transmitter, however you'll need to visit the dealer. The dealer will be able to locate your details and provide you with the correct key at a cheaper price than you would pay if you went to a locksmith.

A locksmith may also be able to create an alternative key with the help of your car's VIN, as long as you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title. This is a less expensive alternative to visiting the dealership however, fob it's not always possible if you own a brand new or more expensive vehicle.

It is best to have a spare set keys. Place it in a secure place, like your house, so that you don't have to worry about putting it in a place when you leave your vehicle. Check your pockets and purses often, especially if you have an outer garment or jacket that has large pockets. Examine places that you may not normally reach, like the inside of your shoe if you wear runners. Also, make sure to check the trunk of your car if you have put keys there. It's easy to forget you left them there and they could easily be stolen if a driver drives off in your car.