How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
It's a fact that everyone loses car keys at some time. It happens more frequently than people think and is a huge hassle.
Fortunately replacing car keys lost can be relatively simple depending on the type of key you own. The most basic keys can usually be made at an area hardware store, provided you provide the VIN number or evidence of ownership.
Retract your steps
It's extremely frustrating to lose your car keys, especially if it occurs during a busy period of the day when you need to be somewhere. Fortunately, it's not the end of the world and there are a number of steps you can take to help you find the replacement car key you lost.
You must first retrace your steps. You can do this by going back to the places you have been and taking a look around, both at home and at work. This will help you find the keys, telling you 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 call a local locksmith or dealership to get help. They'll be able create the new key for you and decode the locks that are already in your vehicle to ensure that only the new key can start it. They'll also remove the old key, so that if anyone does manage to steal it, they aren't able to drive your vehicle.
Make sure you have your VIN on hand prior to contacting an agent or locksmith. This number is located on the driver's door or dashboard. It will let them know what vehicle you own and they will be able to create keys that match.
Memory Exercises
You may be tempted panic at the thought of losing your car keys However, keep your cool. This will help you think clearly and search more thoroughly. Close your eyes and relax. Then utilize your memory to remember the last time you viewed your keys. If you're unable to recall where your keys were, retrace the steps and search for clues.
If you're not getting any luck, contact a local locksmith or dealer to get help. They'll require details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll then be able create a new key that matches the security chip you have already installed. They'll also be able to provide you with steps to prevent key loss.
Verify Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
In the past losing or misplacing car keys wasn't a big problem. Call your local locksmith to find a replacement car key. However, as cars have become more high-tech and sophisticated, so have their keys becoming more difficult and expensive to replace. This is why it's essential to always have an extra key in your car, or at least be aware of the price your car dealership will charge to replace it if you lose one.
You should first check to determine if the key is really missing. Check the pockets in your pants or jacket as well as the back of your car, and other places that you may not normally go like the inside of your shoe or purse. Look through your owner's manual to determine if it contains any specific instructions on how to reset your key if it is dead.
If you've tried everything but you are still unable to locate the car keys, then it's time to contact a professional to get a new key. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional, key fob, or switchblade) it can cost you between $50 to $200 to buy a new one. If you have a standard key, a locksmith can typically cut a new key and change it's programming to fit your vehicle. This is a much cheaper alternative than paying the dealer, who could charge up to $320 for a replacement key.
If you want a key fob or switchblade key, you'll need to contact your dealer and have your car towed in for them to purchase an additional key for your vehicle in accordance with the VIN. They'll then need to connect your new key with the vehicle electronically. This can be a costly and time-consuming process. It's a good idea to include Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy to ensure that you receive assistance from a professional if needed!
Check Your Vehicle's Security System
It's no secret that many modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features that help protect the contents of the car from thieves. These security features can make it difficult to replace keys for your car. However, it's not impossible to find an alternative key for these vehicles although the process is more involved and expensive than in the past. The cost will be based on the type of key your vehicle is using, and you must be aware of prior to getting one made.
The easiest type of car key you can create a spare key for is the classic double-edged key which can be re-used at any locksmith, hardware store or car dealership. The cost is usually less than $10, and it will work perfectly as a backup key to start your car in an urgent situation. More recent models of cars, however, use transponder chips in the keys to control various aspects of the car, from locking and unlocking to switching on and turning off. The chips have to be programmed using a special machine that is available only at certain dealerships.
If you're in need of an additional spare for these advanced models of cars, a local locksmith is likely to be able. They'll need the year and model of your vehicle, as well as some other details to prove that you're the owner (like the registration number of your car or title). Certain locksmiths are able to make these keys onsite and save you the hassle of having to visit dealers.
If you do not have a spare, the next best option is the dealership. They are the best person to talk to because they are familiar with your car and what keys you require to start it. This can be costly however, and they won't be available for assistance at the roadside.
To get a more affordable alternative, you can try a Bluetooth key tracker. keys lost for car are attached to your key ring, and emit an audio signal that you can then connect to an app on your smartphone. The app can then show you where your keys are, helping you locate them, and stop them from getting lost in the first place!
Get a new code
Every car owner loses their keys at one point or another. It can happen in the most inconvenient of times, such as at a petrol station or while taking groceries out of your trunk. Although it's simple to find your keys once again, it can be a very stressful scenario when you don't have a spare set in your home or with friends.
There are still ways to get a replacement key if you've lost your original. The procedure varies based on the type of key and vehicle.
If you own an ignition lock key that is a cylinder, like it's relatively simple to get a locksmith in your area to create a new one immediately. This will cost less than $200 and can be done quicker than purchasing a new one from a dealership.
You'll need to go to the dealer if you have remote keys that have an external transmitter. The dealership will be able to locate your information and issue you the correct key for a much lower price than you would pay if you went to a locksmith.
If you have evidence of ownership, such as an official title or registration or a certificate of ownership, a locksmith might be able create keys using your VIN. This is a less expensive alternative than going to a dealer. However, it may not be possible in the case of a vehicle that is older or has a high price.
It is best to keep a spare set of keys. Place it in a secure location, such as your home, so that you don't have to worry about leaving it in a place when you leave your vehicle. It's also important to inspect the pockets and purses frequently particularly if you are wearing an outerwear item with large pockets. Be sure to check the places you wouldn't normally reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you have on runners. Be sure to double-check the trunk of your car, if you've put the keys down there. It's easy to forget that you put them there, and they can easily get stolen if someone else leaves in your car.
