How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
It's a fact that we all lose car keys at some moment in time. It happens more often than most people realize, and it can be a major trouble.
Fortunately the replacement of lost car keys is fairly simple depending on the type of key you own. The most basic keys can be made at a local hardware store if you provide the VIN number or proof of ownership.
Retract your Steps
It's extremely frustrating to lose your car keys, particularly if it happens during a busy period of time when you have to go somewhere. It's not the worst thing in the world. There are a variety of ways to find your car key replacement.
It is recommended to retrace your steps. This can be done by going back to the places you've been to and taking a look around, at both your home and work. This will help you find the keys, letting you know the last time you saw them.
If you're unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps you'll want to call an area locksmith or dealership for assistance. They'll be able to create a new car keys for you, and decode your locks to ensure that only the key is able to start the vehicle. They'll also erase the old key so that if anyone does manage to obtain it, they aren't able to drive your car.
Be sure to have your VIN on hand prior to contacting an agent or locksmith. The VIN is on the driver's door or on the dashboard. It will inform them of the vehicle you drive so they can create keys that match.
Memory Exercises
If you lose your car keys, you may feel panicky. But try to remain calm. This will help you think clearly and look more thoroughly. Relax your eyes, close your eyes and utilize the power of your memory to recall where you saw your car keys last. If you're struggling to remember the exact location, retrace your steps once more and look for any clues that may have been discovered.
If you are still having issues, contact an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area to get help. You'll have to provide them with details about your vehicle and the security system that it uses, and they'll be able create a new key that can be paired with your security chip. They'll also guide you on steps to prevent key loss.
Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
It wasn't long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a major issue. You could just call your local locksmith and have a new key made. As cars have become more sophisticated and so have their keys. This makes them harder to replace and costlier. This is why it's crucial to always keep an extra key in your car or at the very least know the amount the dealership for your car will charge to replace it if you lose one.
It is important to first find out if the key really missing. Examine the pockets of your pants or jacket, the backseat, and other places that you may not normally look, such as the inside of your shoe or purse. Look through your owner's manual to see if it has any special instructions on how to reset your key if it is dead.
If you've checked everything and you are still unable to locate your car keys, then it's time to call an expert to obtain new keys. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional or key fob or switchblade) it can cost you anywhere from $50-$200 to purchase an alternative one. If you own a traditional key, the locksmith will usually cut a new one and reprogram it to match your car. This is a cheaper option than the dealer's rates, which can be as much as $320 to replace a lost key.
For a key fob, or switchblade keys, you'll need to call your dealership and have the car towing in to purchase the new key for your vehicle based on the VIN. Then, they'll need to connect your new key to the vehicle electronically. This can be a costly and time-consuming process. This is why it's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance policy, so that you can have the help of a professional if you ever need to!
Make sure your vehicle's security is checked.
It's not a secret that many modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features designed to keep the contents of the vehicle safe from thieves. These features can make it difficult to replace the car keys. Fortunately, it's not impossible to find an alternative key for these cars however, the process is more complicated and expensive than it was in the past. The exact cost will vary according to the kind of key your vehicle uses, which you should be aware of prior to getting one made.
The classic car key with a double edge can be turned into a spare key at any hardware store or at a dealership. It will typically cost less than $10 and serve as a backup or to start the car in case of emergency. Modern models of automobiles, however, use transponder chips in the keys to control different aspects of the vehicle including locking and unlocking to turning on and starting. These chips need to be programmed using a specific machine, which is typically only available through certain dealerships.
If you're in need of a spare for these more advanced types of cars, a locksmith local to you should be able to help. They'll need the year and model of your car and other details to confirm that you are the owner (like the registration number of your car or title). Some locksmiths are capable of making these keys onsite, saving you the time of having to go to an agent.
If you don't have a spare car, the next best option is the dealership. They are the best place to ask because they know your car and what keys you require to start it. This can be expensive however, and they won't be available for roadside assistance.
For a much more affordable alternative, you can try a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices clip onto your key ring and emit a signal you can transmit to an app on your smartphone. The app will then inform you where your keys are located, aiding you in finding them and preventing them from getting lost in the first place!
Get lost key to car loses their keys at some moment in time. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as at a gas station or loading groceries into your trunk. It's not hard to find your keys however it can be stressful if you don't have a spare set of keys at home or with a friend.
There are still options for you to get a new key in the event that you've lost the original. The process varies depending on the type of key and the vehicle you are using.
For instance, if you have a standard key that is inserted into an ignition lock cylinder it's relatively simple to have a locksmith create an immediate replacement. This option is less than $200 and can be done quicker than purchasing a new one from a dealer.
If you have a key fob with an external transmitter, you'll have go to the dealer. The dealership will be able to locate your details and provide you with the correct key at a lower cost than if you went to a locksmith.
A locksmith might also be able create keys for replacement by using your car's VIN, as you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title. This is a cheaper alternative to going to an auto dealer, but it's not always possible if you have a newer or more expensive car.
It is recommended to keep a spare set of keys. Keep it in a safe location, such as your home, so that you do not have to worry about losing it if you leave your car. Check your pockets and purses frequently, particularly if you have coats or jackets with large pockets. Examine places that you may not typically reach, such as the inside of your shoes when you wear shoes. Finally, be sure to double-check the trunk of your car if you have put the keys in there. It's easy to forget that you put them there, and they're easily stolen if someone else leaves in your car.