How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
It's a fact of life that we all lose car keys at some point. It happens more than people think and can be a big trouble.
Fortunately replacing car keys lost can be relatively simple 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
It's extremely frustrating to lose your car keys, especially if it happens during a hectic period of time when you have to go somewhere. It's not the end of the world and there are a variety of ways to assist you in finding your lost car key replacement.
The first thing you have to do is to retrace your steps. This means going back through the places you've been and taking a look around, both at home and work. This will give you an idea of where you've seen your keys and could lead you to where they might be.
If you're still having trouble finding your car keys, you can call a locksmith or a dealership in your area for assistance. They'll be able create an entirely new key for you, and decode the existing locks on your vehicle to ensure that only the new key will be able to start it. They'll also erase the old key off your vehicle's system, meaning that if someone does manage to obtain it the key, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.
Be sure to have your VIN handy before contacting a dealer or locksmith. This is a number that's located on your driver's dashboard or door panel, and it will allow them to know what car you drive so they can design a new key to match.
Using Your Memory
If you've lost your car keys, you may be anxious. Try to keep your cool. This will allow you to concentrate and search thoroughly. Close your eyes and take a moment to relax. Then, use your memory to remember the last time you saw your keys. If you can't remember where you put your keys you were, go back to the steps and look for clues.
If you're unable to solve the problem, contact a local locksmith or dealership for assistance. You'll need to provide them with specific details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll then be able create keys that match your security chip. They'll also be able to give you suggestions on how to prevent any future loss of keys.
Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
In the past losing or misplacing car keys was not a big deal. Call your local locksmith and get a new car key. As cars have become more sophisticated and sophisticated, so have keys. This makes them harder to replace and also more expensive. That's why it's important to always have an extra key in your car, or at least know the amount your car dealer will charge for a replacement in the event that you lose one.
You must first determine if the key is really missing. Check the pockets in your pants or jacket along with the backseat and other places that you may not normally check, such as the inside of your shoe or purse. Check your owner's guide to see if it has any specific instructions on how to reset the key in case it stops working.
If you've checked everything and still can't locate your car keys, it is time to get an expert for an alternative. The cost of a new one will vary from $50 to over $200, based on the kind you have. If you have a traditional key, you can usually get the locksmith to cut a new one and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is a less expensive option than the dealer's price, which could be as high as $320 to replace the lost key.
You'll have to contact your dealer and get your vehicle towed for them to obtain a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. Then, they will have to connect the new key to your vehicle electronically, which is a costly and time-consuming procedure. It's a great idea include Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to your policy so that you can get expert help if needed!
Verify the security system of your vehicle.
There is no doubt that modern vehicles are fitted with sophisticated security features to safeguard the contents of the car from theft. These features make it harder to replace the car keys. However, it's not impossible to find a new key for these cars, though the process is more complicated and costly than it was in the past. The cost of a new key will vary on the type of vehicle you have. It is important to be aware of this prior to purchasing one.
The most straightforward type of car key you can make a spare key for is the classic double-edged car key that can be replaced at any locksmith, hardware store or car dealership. It typically costs less than $10 and work just fine as a backup or to start the car in case of 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. The chips have to be programmed using a specific machine, which is typically only available at certain dealerships.
If you're looking to create an additional spare for these sophisticated cars, a local locksmith will be able to assist. They will need to know the year and model of your car, as well as some other information to verify that you're the owner (like your car registration number or title). Some locksmiths are able to make keys on the spot, saving you the time of having to go to an agent.
The dealership is the best option if there isn't spare. They are the best people to ask because they know the vehicle and what keys you need to start it. It can be expensive and they may not be available for roadside assistance.
For a much more affordable alternative, you can try a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices attach 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 locate them and prevent them from being lost in the first place!
Find a new key
Everybody loses their keys at some point. It can happen in 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 again however it can be stressful if you don't have an extra set of keys at home or with a friend.
There are, however, options to obtain an alternative key in the event that you've lost the original. The procedure will depend on the type of key you have and the car you drive.
If you have an ignition lock key that is a cylinder, like it's relatively simple to get a locksmith in your area to make a replacement on the spot. This option is less than $200 and is quicker than purchasing a new one from a dealership.
You will need to visit the dealer if you have a remote key with an external transmitter. The dealership will be able locate your information and send you the right key at a cheaper price than you would pay if you went to a locksmith.
A locksmith may also be able create a replacement key using the VIN of your vehicle, so you have evidence of ownership like your registration or title. This is a cheaper alternative to visiting an auto dealer, but it's not always feasible if you own a newer or more expensive vehicle.
The best method to avoid losing your keys is having a spare. Keep it in a secure location, like your home, so that you don't need to be concerned about losing it when you leave your vehicle. It's also important to inspect the pockets and purses frequently particularly if you are wearing a coat or jacket with large pockets. Don't forget to check places that you would not normally reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you are on runners. Also, make read to double-check the trunk of your car if you put the keys down there. It's easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be taken when someone drives away in your vehicle.