How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
It's a fact that every car owner loses their keys at some point. It happens more often than people think, but it can be a big trouble.
It is possible to replace lost car keys dependent on the type of key that you have. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership then you can get the most basic keys made at the local hardware store.
Retract Your Steps
The loss of your car keys can be stressful, especially if it happens at a hectic time of the day and you have to go somewhere. It's not the most unpleasant thing that can happen. There are a variety of ways to locate your car key replacement.
It is recommended to retrace your steps. This involves going back through the places you've been to and looking around at home and work. This will give you a good idea of the last location you remember seeing your keys, and may lead you to where they could be.
If you're still having trouble finding your car keys, call an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area for assistance. They will be able create an entirely new car key for you, and decode your existing locks so that only the key will be able to start the vehicle. They'll also erase the old key so that if someone does manage to get it, they aren't able to drive your vehicle.
Make sure you have your VIN handy prior to contacting an agent or locksmith. This is a number that's located on your driver's door panel or dashboard and will inform them of the car you drive so they can make keys that match.
car key lost no spare might be tempted to panic at the thought of losing your car keys However, be calm. This will enable you to concentrate and conduct a thorough search. Relax your eyes, close your eyes and use the power of your memory to recall the location where you last found your car keys the last time. If you are unable to remember where your keys were then retrace your steps and look for clues.
If you're not getting any luck try contacting a locksmith in your area or dealer to get help. You'll need to provide them with details about your vehicle and its security system and they'll create a new key that will pair with your existing security chip. They'll also provide you with ways to prevent future key loss.
Verify Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
A few years ago, misplacing-or losing-your car keys wasn't a huge issue. Call your local locksmith and get a new car key. But as cars have become more technological and sophisticated, so have their keys become more difficult and expensive to replace. That's why it's important to always keep an extra key in your car or at a minimum, know the amount your car dealership will charge for a replacement if you lose one.
The first thing to do when you lose your car keys is to ensure that the key you lost is actually missing. Check the pockets in your pants or jacket, 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 your key if it is dead.
If you've checked all the possibilities but are still unable to locate your car keys, it's time to call a professional for an alternative. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional or key fob, or switchblade) it can cost you anything from $50 to $200 to get a new one. If you have a standard key, the locksmith can usually cut a new one and modify it to match your car. This is a cheaper option than the dealer's prices which could be as high as $320 to replace the lost key.
You'll need to call your dealer and get your vehicle towing for them to purchase a new VIN-based keys for your vehicle. Then, they'll need to connect the new key with your vehicle's computer this can be an expensive and lengthy procedure. This is why it's a good idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance policy, so that you can have the help of an expert if you ever need it!
Make sure your vehicle's security system is working
It's not a secret that a lot of modern cars have fancy security features designed to protect the contents of the car from thieves. While these features are usually an excellent thing however, they can make the car keys more difficult to replace. However, it's not impossible to obtain an alternative key for these cars although the process is more complex and costly than in the past. The cost will be depending on the kind of key your vehicle is using, and you must be aware of prior to getting one made.
The classic car key with a double edge can be made into a spare at any hardware store or dealership. It will typically cost less than $10 and will serve as a backup or to start the car in the event of an emergency. Transponder chips are used in the most recent models of car keys to control different aspects of the vehicle, including locking and unlocking, turning off and on, as well as other functions. These chips must be programmed using a special machine that is available only at certain dealerships.
A local locksmith can help you if you require a spare key for these advanced cars. They will need to know the model and year of your car, as well as some other details to prove that you are the owner (like your car registration number or title). Some locksmiths are capable of making keys in-person, saving you the time of having to visit a dealer.
The dealership is your best option if there isn't an extra. They are the most familiar with your car's model and the keys needed to get it started. It can be costly and they won't be able to assist you on the road.
For a much more affordable alternative, consider a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices clip onto your key ring and emit a signal you can connect to an app on your phone. The app will show you where your keys are, helping you locate them and preventing them from being lost in the first place!
Find a New Key
Everybody loses their keys at some moment in time. It can happen at the most inconvenient of times, such as at a gas station or while loading groceries into your trunk. It's not difficult to find your keys however it can be stressful if do not have a spare set of keys at home or with a companion.
There are, however, options to obtain a new key if you have lost the original. The process depends on the type of key you have and the car you drive.
If you own an ignition lock cylinder key, for example, it is relatively easy to have a locksmith local to create a new one immediately. This will cost less than $200 and can be done quicker than purchasing a new one from a dealership.
If you have a key fob that has an external transmitter,, you'll need to visit the dealer. The dealer will be able locate your information and send you the correct key for a much lower price than what you would pay for a locksmith.
A locksmith may also be able to create keys for replacement with the help of the VIN number of your car, as you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title. This is a cheaper option than going to a dealer. However, it might not be feasible when your car is older or expensive.
The best way to prevent losing your keys is by having an extra. Keep it in a safe place, like your house, so that you don't need to think about leaving it somewhere when you leave your vehicle. Check your pockets and purses frequently, especially if wear an outer garment or jacket that has large pockets. Don't forget to look at places that you would not normally reach, such as the inside of your shoes, especially if you're on runners. Check your trunk to see if you have put your keys in there. It's easy for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They could be stolen when someone drives away in your vehicle.