How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

Everyone loses their car keys at some point or another. It happens more often than most people realize it can be a big trouble.

Fortunately, replacing lost car keys can be relatively simple depending on the kind of key you own. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership you can have the most basic keys at the local hardware store.

Retract your Steps

It's frustrating to lose your car keys, especially when it happens during a hectic period 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 find your car key replacement.

You should first retrace all your steps. This means going back through the places you've visited and looking around at home and work. This will help you locate the keys by telling you the last time you seen them.

If you are unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps you'll need to call a local locksmith or dealership to get help. They'll be able to make an entirely new key for you, and decode the existing locks on your vehicle, so that only the new key will be able to start it. They'll also remove the old key, so that if anyone does manage to get it, they won't be able to drive your car.

Before you contact an expert locksmith or dealer, ensure you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) in your pocket. It's located on your driver's side door panel or dashboard and will inform them of the vehicle you own so that they can design keys that match.

Memory Exercises

You might be tempted to fear losing your car keys However, be calm. This will help you think clearly and look more thoroughly. Close your eyes, relax and make use of your memory to recall the location where you last found your car keys the last time. If you can't remember where you put your keys, retrace the steps and look for clues.

If you're unable to solve the problem try contacting a locksmith in your area or dealership to get help. You'll need to provide them with details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll then be able create an original key that matches your existing security chip. They'll also provide advice on how to prevent the loss of your keys in the future.

Verify Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).

It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys was not a major problem. Call your local locksmith to obtain a new car key. However, as cars have become more high-tech, so too have their keys becoming more expensive and difficult to replace. That's why it's important to always have a spare key on hand, or at least know how much your car key lost replacement dealership will charge you for a replacement if you lose one.

The first thing to do when you lose a car key is to ensure that the key you lost keys car is not actually missing. Check the pockets of your jacket or pants along with the backseat and other places you might not normally look like the inside of your purse or shoe. Go through the owner's manual to determine if there are 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 lost for car, it's time to contact an expert to get an alternative. The cost of a new one will vary from $50 to over $200 based on the type you own. If you own a traditional key, you can usually have the locksmith simply cut a new key and reprogram it for your vehicle. This is a cheaper alternative to paying the dealer, who can charge up to $320 for a replacement key.

You'll need to contact your dealer and have your vehicle towed to them so they can order a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. Then, they'll have to pair the new key to your vehicle's computer which could be a costly and time-consuming procedure. It's a great idea to include Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to your policy to ensure that you receive expert assistance if you need it!

Check your vehicle's security system

No secret is that many modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features to protect the vehicle's content from theft. While these features are usually an excellent thing, they can also make keys for the car more difficult to replace. It's still possible to get an alternative key for these cars, but the process is more complicated 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 before getting one made.

The easiest type of car key to make a spare key for is the classic double-edged car key which can be re-used at any hardware store, locksmith, or car dealership. It typically costs less than $10 and work just fine as a backup or to start the car in an emergency. Transponder chips are utilized in more recent models of car keys to control different aspects of the vehicle, like locking and unlocking, turning off and on, and other functions. These chips must be programmed using a special device that is only available in some dealerships.

A local locksmith can help you if you require a spare key for these cars. They will need to know the year and model of your vehicle and other details to confirm that you're the owner (like the registration number on your car or title). Some locksmiths are able to make keys in-person, saving you the time of having to visit a dealer.

If you don't have a spare, the alternative is the dealership. They will be the most familiar with your specific car and the keys that are required to get it running. It can be expensive and they may not be able to provide roadside assistance.

Try an Bluetooth key tracker for an affordable alternative. These devices are attached to your key ring and emit a signal you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then show you the whereabouts of your keys, aiding you in finding them and prevent them from being lost in the first instance!

Get a New Key

Everyone loses their keys at some point. It can happen at the most awkward of places like at a petrol station or while loading groceries into your trunk. Although it's easy to locate your keys again, it could be a very stressful scenario in the event that you don't have a spare set at home or with your friends.

There are ways to obtain a replacement key if you've cheap lost car key replacement your original. The process depends on the type of key you own and the car you drive.

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

You'll need to visit the dealer if you own remote keys that have 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 a locksmith.

A locksmith might also be able create keys for replacement by using the VIN number of your car, as you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title. This is a less expensive alternative than going to a dealer. However, it might not be a possibility if your vehicle is newer or expensive.

The best way to avoid losing your keys is having a spare. Keep it in a secure place, such as your home, so that you don't need to worry about losing it if you leave your car. It's also important to inspect your purses and pockets regularly particularly if you are wearing an outerwear item with large pockets. Be sure to check the places that you would not normally reach, like the inside of your shoes, especially if you're on runners. Double-check your trunk if you have left keys in there. It's easy for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be stolen when someone steals your car.