How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

It's a fact that we all lose car keys at some point. It happens more frequently than people think however it can be a major trouble.

Fortunately, replacing lost car keys can be relatively simple depending on the type of key you have. The most basic keys can usually be made at an area hardware store, provided you can provide the VIN number or proof of ownership.

Retract your Steps

It's a hassle to lose your car keys, particularly if it happens during a hectic period of the day when you need to be somewhere. It's not the worst thing in the world. There are many ways to locate your car key replacement.

The first thing you need to do is retrace your steps. This can be done by returning to the places where you've been to and taking a look around, at both the workplace and at home. This will give you an idea of the last location you remember seeing your keys and can help you find 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 help. They'll be able to create the new key for you and also 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 off the system of your vehicle, so if someone does manage to gain access to it, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.

Before you speak to an expert locksmith or dealer, make sure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) handy. This number is found on the driver's door panel or dashboard. It will allow them to know what vehicle you own and they will be able to create a key that matches.

Utilizing Your Memory

If you lose your car key lost keys, you might be anxious. However, try to remain calm. This will enable you to think clearly and search thoroughly. Relax your eyes and close them. Then, use your memory to recall the last time you viewed your keys. If you're struggling to remember where they were, retrace your steps again and look for any clues that may have been discovered.

If you're having no luck you can contact a local locksmith or dealership for assistance. You'll have to give them specific details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll then be able create keys that match your existing security chip. They'll also provide you with preventive measures to avoid future key loss.

Verify Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

Not too long ago losing or misplacing car keys wasn't a big problem. Call your local locksmith to obtain a new car key. But as cars have become more high-tech and sophisticated, so have their keys, making them more difficult and expensive to replace. It is essential to have an extra car key or to know the cost of replacing lost keys to a car it in the event you lose yours.

It is important to first find out if the key really missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the jacket or pants you wore when you last used your car, looking inside the back seat of your vehicle or even looking in places that you would not normally look like the inside of a shoe or a purse. Also, you should look through the owner's manual to determine if there are specific instructions for the kind of key you own like how to reset it if it dies.

If you've tried everything but still cannot find your car keys, it's time to get an expert for a new one. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional keys, key fobs or switchblade), it will cost you between $50 to $200 to buy an alternative one. If you own a traditional key, you can usually have the locksmith simply cut a new key and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is a much cheaper alternative than paying the dealer, who could charge up to $320 for a replacement key.

For a key fob or switchblade key, you'll have to contact your dealer and have your car towing in to order an additional key for your vehicle that is based on the VIN. Then, they'll have to pair the new key with your vehicle's electronic key which is a costly and lengthy 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!

Make sure your vehicle's security is checked.

It's no secret that many modern vehicles come with advanced security features that ensure that the car's contents are safe from theft. These features can make it difficult to replace lost car keys car keys. However, it's not impossible to get an alternative key for these vehicles, though the process is more complicated and expensive than it was in the past. The cost of a new key will vary on the type of vehicle you own. It is essential to know this before ordering one.

The easiest type of car key to make a spare for is the classic double-edged car key that can be purchased at any hardware store, locksmith or car dealership. It is usually less than $10 and work just fine as a backup or to start the car in an 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, switching on and off, and other functions. These chips must be programmed using a special machine that is only available in some dealerships.

A local locksmith can help you if you require a spare key for these vehicles. They will require the model and year of the vehicle and other details (like your registration number or title) to verify that they are the owner. Some locksmiths will be able to make keys on the spot and save you the hassle of having to visit a dealer.

If you don't have a spare car, the alternative is the dealership. 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 may not be able to assist you on the road.

If you want a less expensive alternative, you can try a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices are attached to your key ring, and emit an audio signal that you can then connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will show you where your keys are, helping you find them and prevent them from being lost in the first place!

Find a New Key

Everybody loses their keys at some moment in time. It happens at the most awkward times, like at a gas station or loading groceries into your trunk. Although it's easy to locate your keys again, it could be a very stressful scenario if you don't have a spare set at home or with your friends.

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

For example, if you have a standard key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder, it's fairly easy to get a locksmith to make an immediate replacement. This will cost less than $200 and is quicker than purchasing a new one from a dealership.

If you have a key fob equipped with an external transmitter, however you'll have go to the dealer. The dealership will be able to find your information and issue you the right key at a cheaper price than what you would pay if you went to an locksmith.

If you have evidence of ownership, such as a registration or title or a certificate of ownership, a locksmith might be able to create an entirely new key with your VIN. This is a much less expensive alternative to going to a dealership, but it's not always possible if you own a brand new or more expensive vehicle.

The best way to prevent losing your keys is having a spare. Place it in a safe location, like your home, so that you don't need to be concerned about losing it when you leave your car. Check your pockets and purses often, especially if you wear coats or jackets with large pockets. Don't forget to look at places you'd never reach, like the inside of your shoes if you are on runners. Finally, be sure to check the trunk of your car if you have put the keys in there. It's easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be taken when someone steals your car.