How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
Everyone loses their car keys at one time or some other time. It happens more than people think, but it can be a big hassle.
Fortunately replacing car keys lost 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 at the local hardware store.
Retract Your Steps
Losing your car keys is frustrating, especially when it happens at a busy time of the day when you have to go somewhere. It's not the end of the world, and there are several ways you can help you locate your car key replacement.
It is recommended to retrace your steps. You can do this by returning to the places you've been and taking a look around, at both home and at work. 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're still having trouble finding your car keys, contact a locksmith or dealership in your area for help. They'll be able to create a new key for you, and decode the locks on your vehicle so that only the new key is able to start it. They'll also erase the old key out of your vehicle's system, so if someone does manage to gain access to it and steal it, they won't be allowed to drive your vehicle.
Be sure to have your VIN in hand before contacting a dealer or locksmith. This number is located on the driver's door or on the dashboard. It will let them know what vehicle you drive so they can create keys that are compatible with.
Memory Exercises
If you've lost your car keys, you may be anxious. However, try to remain calm. This will enable you to concentrate and thoroughly. Close your eyes and take a moment to relax. Then utilize your memory to remember the last time you saw your keys. If you are unable to remember where you put your keys, retrace the steps and look for clues.
If you're not getting any luck you can contact a local locksmith or dealer to get help. You'll need to provide them with details about your vehicle and the security system that it uses and they'll be able to create a new key that will pair with your security chip. They'll also be able to give you advice on how to prevent any future loss of keys.
Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
It wasn't that long ago that losing keys to your car was not a major issue. You could contact your local locksmith and get a new key made. However, as cars have become more high-tech and sophisticated, so have their keys becoming more expensive and difficult to replace. That's why it's important to keep an extra key in your car, or at least know the amount the dealership for your car will charge you to replace it if you lose one.
The first thing to do when you lose a car key is to confirm that the key you lost is not actually missing. Check the pockets in your jacket or pants as well as the back of your car, and other places you might not normally go for, like the inside of your shoe or purse. You should also look through the owner's manual to see if there are any specific instructions for the type of key you own, such as how to reset it in case it goes dead.
If you've tried everything but you are still unable to locate your car keys, then it's time to contact a professional to get new keys. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional or key fob, or switchblade) it could cost you anything from $50 to $200 to get new keys. If you have an old-fashioned key, you can usually have the locksmith simply cut a new key and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is a much cheaper alternative to paying a dealer, who can charge up to $320 for a replacement key.
You'll need to contact your dealer and get your car towed by them to allow them to purchase a new VIN-based keys for your vehicle. Then, they will have to pair the new key to your vehicle's computer, which can be an expensive and time-consuming procedure. This is why it's a good idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance, so you can get the assistance of a professional if you ever need to!
Check the security system of your car.
No secret is that many modern vehicles are fitted with advanced security features that safeguard the contents of the car from theft. While these security features are generally an excellent thing but they can also make keys for the car more difficult to replace. However, it's not impossible to find a new key for these cars however, the process is more complicated and costly than in the past. The cost will be depending on the type of key your vehicle uses, which you should be aware of prior to having one made.
The classic double-edged car key can be converted into a spare by visiting any hardware store or dealership. The price is typically less than $10, and it will work perfectly as a backup key to start your car in a dire situation. The latest models of automobiles, however, utilize transponder chips inside the keys to control various aspects of the car including locking and unlocking to turning on and off. The chips have to be programmed using a special device that is only available at certain dealerships.
A locksmith near you can assist you if you need an extra key for these cars. They will need to know the model and year of your car as well as other information to verify that you're the owner (like the registration number on your car or title). Some locksmiths are able to make keys on the spot which will save you the hassle of going to dealers.
If you don't have a spare, the next best option is the dealership. They are the most knowledgeable about your specific car and the keys that are needed to get it started. It can be costly, and they will not be available for roadside assistance.
Try a Bluetooth key tracker for an affordable alternative. These devices are attached to your key ring and emit signals that you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will display the whereabouts of your keys, helping you to find them and preventing them from getting lost in the first place!
Get a new key
Everyone loses their car keys at one time or another. It happens at the most awkward times, like at a gas station, or loading groceries into your trunk. Although it's simple to find your keys once again, it could be a very stressful situation when you don't have a spare set in your home or with your friends.
There are still ways to get a new key in case you've lost your original. The process is different based on your type of key and the vehicle you are using.
For example, if you have a standard key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder it's easy to have a locksmith create a replacement on the spot. This option is less than $200 and can be completed much quicker than purchasing one from a dealership.
If you have a key fob with an external transmitter, you'll need go to the dealer. The dealer will be able to find your information and will send you the right key at a cheaper price than what you would pay a locksmith.
If you have proof of ownership, like an official title or registration 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 the dealership however it's not always possible when you own a brand new or more expensive car.
replacing lost car keys is best to have a spare set of keys. Place it in a safe place, such as your home, so you don't have to be concerned about losing it when you leave your car. Check your pockets and purses frequently, particularly if you have coats or jackets with large pockets. Don't forget to look at places that you would not normally reach, like the inside of your shoes if you have on runners. Also, make sure to double-check the trunk of your car, if you've put the keys in there. It's easy to forget that you left them there and they're easily stolen if a driver leaves in your car.