How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement It's a fact that we all lose car keys at some time. It happens more often than most people realize it can be a major problem. Fortunately, replacing lost car keys can be relatively simple depending on the type of key you own. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership you can have the most basic keys made at your local hardware store. Retract your Steps The loss of your car keys can be difficult, especially when it happens at a hectic time of day and you need to get somewhere. Fortunately, it's not the end of the world, and there are several ways to help you locate your lost car key replacement. You must first 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 help you locate the keys, noting when you last was able to see them. If you are unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll need to contact a local locksmith or dealership for assistance. They'll be able to make a new car key for you, and will decode the locks you have in place so that only the key can start the vehicle. They'll also remove the old key out of your vehicle's system, meaning that even if someone does gain access to it and steal it, they won't be allowed to drive your vehicle. Before you contact a locksmith or dealer ensure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) available. This is a number that's found on your driver's side dashboard or door panel and will allow them to know what car you own so they can design an appropriate key for your vehicle. Memory Exercises If you lose your car keys, you could be frightened. But try to keep your cool. This will enable you to think clearly and conduct a thorough search. Close your eyes, relax and make use of your memory to remember where you saw your car keys last. If you're having difficulty remembering the exact location, retrace your steps and search for any clues that may have surfaced. If you are experiencing issues, call an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area for help. You'll have to provide them with details about your vehicle and its security system and they'll be able to create a replacement key that can be paired with your existing security chip. They'll also be able advise you on ways to prevent future key loss. Check Your Vehicle Identification (VIN). It wasn't that long ago that losing keys to your car was not a huge issue. Contact your local locksmith to obtain a new car key. As cars become more sophisticated and so have their keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and more expensive. It's essential to have an extra car key or to know the cost of a replacement in the event you lose yours. The first thing you need to do when you lose your car keys is to confirm that the lost key is not actually missing. Check the pockets in your jacket or pants, the backseat, and other places you may not normally check for, like the inside of a purse or shoe. Look through your owner's manual to see if it has any specific instructions on how to reset your key in case it stops working. If you've tried all the possibilities but are still unable to locate your car keys, it's time to get a professional for a new one. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional or key fob or switchblade) it can cost you anything from $50-$200 to purchase 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 alternative to paying the dealer, who may charge up to $320 for a replacement key. For a key fob or switchblade keys, you'll need to call your dealership and have the car towed in for them to order the new key for your vehicle based on the VIN. They will then have to pair your new key with the vehicle electronically. This could be costly and a lengthy procedure. It's a great idea include Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy so that you can receive assistance from a professional if needed! Check your vehicle's security system It's not a secret that a lot of modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features that are designed to keep the vehicle's contents safe from thieves. These security features can make it more difficult to replace car keys. Fortunately, it's not impossible to get an alternative key for these cars however, the process is more involved and expensive than in the past. The cost of a new key will depend on the type of vehicle you own. It is essential to know this before ordering one. The most straightforward type of car key to make a spare key for is the classic double-edged car key which can be re-used at any locksmith, hardware store, or car dealership. The cost is typically less than $10, and can be used as a backup key to start your car in an urgent situation. The latest models of cars, however, use transponder chips in the keys to control various aspects of the vehicle from locking and unlocking to turning on and starting. These chips must be programmed by a special machine, which is generally only available at certain dealerships. If you're in need of an extra for these more advanced models of cars, a locksmith local to you should be able to help. They'll need the model and year of your car and other details to confirm that you are the owner (like the registration number on your car or title). Some locksmiths can make these keys on-site which will save you time from having to visit an agent. If you don't have a spare car, the alternative is to go to the dealership. They will be the most familiar with your particular vehicle and the keys needed to get it started. It can be costly and they won't be able to provide roadside assistance. To get a more affordable alternative, consider a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices are attached to your key ring, emitting signals that you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then show you the location of your keys aiding you in finding the keys and preventing them from getting lost in the first place! Find a New Key Everyone loses their keys at some point. It can happen at the most inconvenient times, such as at a gas station or loading groceries into your trunk. Even though it is easy to find your keys once again, it could be a very stressful scenario if you don't have a spare set at home or with your family. There are ways to get a new key if you've lost your original. The process depends on the type of key you own and your vehicle. If you have an ignition lock key for a cylinder, for instance it's relatively simple to have a locksmith local to make a new one immediately. This will cost less than $200 and is typically quicker than purchasing one from a dealership. If you have a key fob with an external transmitter, however you'll have to visit the dealer. The dealer will find your information and send you the correct key for a lower cost than what you would pay locksmith. If you have evidence of ownership such as an official title or registration or registration, a locksmith might be able to make an entirely new key with your VIN. This is a much less expensive alternative to going to the dealership, but it's not always possible if you have a newer or more expensive vehicle. The best way to avoid losing your keys is having a spare. Keep it in a secure place, such as your home, so you don't have to be concerned about losing it when you leave your vehicle. Be sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, particularly if you have coats or jackets with large pockets. Be sure to check places you wouldn't normally reach, like the inside of your shoes in the event that you wear 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 if someone drives away in your car.
replacing lost car keys
