How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
Everyone loses their car keys at one point or another. It happens more often than people think, but it can be a major hassle.
Fortunately replacing car keys lost is relatively easy, depending on what type of key you have. 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
It's extremely frustrating to lose your car keys, especially if it happens during a hectic period of time when you're required to be somewhere. It's not the worst thing in the world. There are several ways to find your car key replacement.
straight from the source is recommended to retrace your steps. This can be done by going back to the places you've been and looking around, at both home and at work. This will give you an idea of the last place you remember seeing your keys and can guide you to where they could be.
If you can't find your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll need to call an auto locksmith or a local locksmith for assistance. They'll be able create a new key for you and also decode the locks on your vehicle so that only the new key is able to start it. They'll also wipe the old key out of the system of your vehicle, so if someone does manage to obtain it, they won't be able to drive your car.
Before you call a locksmith or dealer make sure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) in your pocket. This is the number located on your driver's dashboard or door, and it will allow them to know what vehicle you own so that they can create keys that match.
Utilizing Your Memory
You may be tempted fear losing your car keys, but try to remain calm. This will help you think clearly and look more deeply. Relax your eyes and close them. Then utilize your memory to remember the last time you saw your keys. If you're having trouble remembering the exact location, retrace your steps once more and look for any clues that may have surfaced.
If you're still having trouble, contact 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 create a new key that will pair with your existing security chip. They'll also be able to guide you on ways to prevent future key loss.
Check Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).
A few years ago losing or misplacing car keys was not a big deal. You could call your local locksmith and get a new key made. As cars evolved and so have their keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and costlier. This is why it's crucial to keep a spare key around, or at least know how much the dealership for your car will charge you for a replacement in the event that you lose one.
You must first see if the key is really missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the jacket or pants that you wore last time you used your car, looking inside the back seat of your vehicle, and even checking places that you would not normally look like the inside of a shoe or a purse. Check your owner's guide to see if it has any specific instructions on how to reset your key if it becomes dead.
If you've checked everything and you are still unable to locate your car keys, then it's time to call a professional to get a new key. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional, key fob, or switchblade) it could cost you anything from $50 to $200 to buy new keys. If you have an old-fashioned key, you can get the locksmith to make a new key and reprogram it for your vehicle. This is a less expensive option than the dealer's price which can be as much as $320 to replace a lost key.
For a key fob, or switchblade key, you'll have to call your dealership and have the car towed in for them to order an additional key for your vehicle that is based on the VIN. They'll then need to pair your new key with the vehicle electronically. This can be costly and a lengthy process. It's a good idea to add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy to ensure that you receive assistance from a professional if needed!
Check the security system of your car.
There is no doubt that modern vehicles are fitted with sophisticated security features to protect the vehicle's content from thieves. These features can make it more difficult to replace keys for your car. It is still possible to obtain a replacement key for these vehicles, but the process is more complicated and expensive. The cost of the new key will be contingent on the type of vehicle you own. It is essential to be aware of this prior to purchasing one.
The most straightforward kind of car key to create a spare key for is the traditional double-edged key that can be replaced at any locksmith, hardware store or car dealership. The cost is typically less than $10 and is perfect as a backup key or to start your car in an urgent situation. The latest models of cars, however, utilize transponder chips inside the keys to control various aspects of the vehicle, from locking and unlocking to turning on and off. The chips have to be programmed using a specific machine, which is generally only available through certain dealerships.
A local locksmith can help you with an extra key for these advanced cars. replace lost car key will require the model and year of the car as well as other information (like your registration number or title) to verify that they are the owner of the vehicle. lost car key will be able to make keys on the spot, saving you the time of going to a dealer.
If you do not have a spare, the alternative is the dealership. They'll be the most knowledgeable about your specific car and the keys that are required to get it running. It can be costly and they may not be available for roadside assistance.
To get a 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 can then show you where your keys are, helping you find them and preventing them from getting lost in the first place!
Get a new code
Every car owner loses their keys at some point or another. It happens at the most awkward times, like at a gas station or loading groceries into your trunk. It is 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 for you to get a new key if you have lost the original. The procedure will depend on the type of key you own and the vehicle you are using.
If you have an ignition lock cylinder key, for example it's fairly easy to have a local locksmith create a new one immediately. This option costs less than $200, and it's typically quicker than purchasing one from a dealership.
You'll need to go to the dealer if you have an electronic remote with an external transmitter. The dealer will be able to find your information and issue you the right key at a cheaper price than you would pay for a locksmith.
If you have evidence of ownership such as the title or registration or a certificate of ownership, a locksmith might be able to create an entirely new key with your VIN. This is a cheaper alternative to going to the dealership however it's not always possible when you own a newer or more expensive vehicle.
The best way to prevent losing your keys is by having a spare. Place it in a safe place, such as your home, so that you don't have to worry about losing it when you leave your car. Be sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, particularly if you have coats or jackets with large pockets. Be sure to check the places you wouldn't normally reach, like the inside of your shoes if you have on runners. Finally, be sure to double-check the trunk of your car if you have put keys there. It's easy to forget that you put them there, and they could easily be taken away if someone else takes off in your vehicle.