How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
Everyone loses their car keys at one time or another. It happens more frequently than most people realize it can be a big problem.
It is possible to replace lost car key s, depending on the type of key you own. The most basic keys can be made at a local hardware store if you have the VIN number or evidence of ownership.
Retract Your Steps
Losing your car keys is stressful, especially if it happens at a hectic time of day and you have to go somewhere. Fortunately, it's not the end of the world and there are a variety of ways you can help you find your car key replacement.
The first thing you need to do is to retrace your steps. This can be done by returning to the places you've been and taking a look around, both at the workplace and at home. This will help you locate the keys by telling you the last time you seen 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 an entirely new key for you, and decode the locks that are already in your vehicle so that only the new key will be able to start it. They'll also erase the old key from your vehicle's system, so if someone does manage to gain access to it the key, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.
Be sure to have your VIN on hand before contacting the locksmith or dealer. The VIN is on the driver's door or dashboard. It will allow them to know what vehicle you drive, so they can make keys that are compatible with.
Using Your Memory
If you've lost your car keys, you may feel panicky. Try to remain calm. This will help you think clearly and look more deeply. Close your eyes and take a moment to relax. Then utilize your memory to remember the last time you viewed your keys. If you can't remember where your keys were, retrace the steps and search for clues.
If you're still having issues, contact an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area to get help. They'll require specific details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll then create a new key that matches the security chip you have already installed. They can also give you tips on how to avoid future key losses.
Verify Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
It wasn't long ago that misplacing or losing your car keys was not a huge problem. You could just contact your local locksmith and have a new key made. As cars become more high-tech as well, so have keys becoming more difficult and expensive to replace. This is why it's crucial to always have a spare key on hand or at the very least know the amount your car dealer will charge you for a replacement in the event that you lose one.
The first thing you need to do when you lose a car key is to make sure that the key you lost is not actually missing. Check the pockets in your pants or jacket along with the backseat and other places that you may not normally look for, like the inside of your shoe or purse. Go through the owner's manual to determine if it contains any specific instructions on how to reset the key if it becomes dead.
If you've tried everything but you are still unable to locate your car keys, it's time to call an expert to request a new key. The cost of a new key can range from $50 to $200 based on the type you own. If you own a traditional key, you can have the locksmith simply make a new key and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is a much cheaper alternative than paying the dealer, who can charge up to $320 for a new key.
You'll need to contact your dealer and request that your car towed by them to allow them to purchase a new VIN-based keys for your vehicle. Then, they'll need to connect your new key to the vehicle electronically. This can be a costly and time-consuming process. It's a great idea add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to your policy to allow you to receive expert assistance if you need it!
Verify the security system of your vehicle.
It's not a secret that a lot of modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features that help keep the contents of the vehicle safe from thieves. Although these features are typically an excellent thing but they can also make the car keys more difficult to replace. It's not difficult to get a new key for these vehicles although the process is more complex and costly than in the past. The cost will be based on the type of key your vehicle uses, which you should be aware of prior to having one made.
The classic double-edged car keys can be made into a spare key at any hardware store or dealer. The cost is typically less than $10 and can be used as a backup key to start your car in a dire situation. Transponder chips are utilized in more recent models of car keys to control different aspects of the vehicle, such as locking and unlocking, turning off and on, as well as other functions. The chips have to be programmed with a specific machine that is only available at certain dealerships.
A local locksmith can help you with an extra key for these advanced cars. They will require the model and year of the car, along with some other details (like your registration number or title) to confirm that they are the owner. Certain locksmiths are able to make keys in-person and save you the hassle of having to visit an agent.
If you don't have a spare car, the alternative is to go to the dealership. They are the best place to talk to because they are familiar with the car and the keys you require to start it. This can be costly but they won't be available for roadside assistance.
To get a more affordable alternative, try using a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices are attached to your key ring and emit a signal you can then connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then inform you where your keys are located, helping you find them and preventing them from getting lost in the first place!
Get a New Key
Everybody loses their keys at some moment in time. It happens at the most awkward times, like at a station or loading groceries into your trunk. Although it's simple to find your keys once again, it could be a very stressful situation when you don't have a spare set at home or with your family.
Fortunately, there are still options to obtain a new key in the event that you've lost the original. The process varies depending on the kind of key and your vehicle.
If you own an ignition lock key for a cylinder, for instance it's fairly easy to have a local locksmith create a new one on the spot. This option costs less than $200 and is usually quicker than buying one from a dealership.
If you have a key fob that has an external transmitter,, you'll need to visit the dealer. The dealership will be able to find your information and send you the correct key at a lower cost than what you would pay for an locksmith.
A locksmith might also be able to make an alternative key with the help of the VIN number of your car, as you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title. This is a cheaper option than visiting a dealership. However, it may not be a possibility when your car is older or has a high price.
The best way to prevent 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 car. Be sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, particularly if you wear an outer garment or jacket that has large pockets. Don't forget to look at places you wouldn't normally reach, like the inside of your shoes, especially if you're on runners. Also, make sure to check the trunk of your car, if you've put keys there. It's easy to forget you put them in there and they're easily taken away if someone else takes off in your vehicle.