How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
Every car owner loses their keys at one point or some other time. It happens more often than people think and can be a major trouble.
It is possible to replace lost car keys depending on the type of key that you have. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership, you can get the most basic keys made at your local hardware store.
Retract your steps
It's a hassle to lose your car keys, especially if it happens during a hectic time of the day when you're required to be somewhere. It's not the most unpleasant thing that could happen to you. There are many ways to locate your car key replacement.
You must first retrace your steps. This means going back to the places you've visited and taking a look around at home and work. This will help you locate the keys, letting you know the last time you was able to see them.
If you're unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps you'll need to contact a local locksmith or dealership to get help. They'll be able to make the 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, so that if someone does manage to steal it, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.
Make sure you have your VIN in hand prior to contacting an agent or locksmith. This is the number found on your driver's side dashboard or door panel and will let them know which car you drive so they can create an appropriate key for your vehicle.
Memory Exercises
You may be tempted to be scared of losing your car keys However, keep your cool. This will help you think clearly and look more deeply. Relax your eyes and close them. Then you can use your memory to recall the last time you saw your keys. If you're unable to recall where your keys were you were, go back to the steps and look for clues.
If you are still having issues, contact an auto locksmith or a dealership near you for assistance. You'll be required to provide details about your car and the security system that it uses and they'll be able to make a replacement key that can be paired with your existing security chip. They'll also be able to provide you with preventive measures to avoid future key loss.
Check Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).
A few years ago losing or misplacing car keys was not a big problem. You could simply call your local locksmith to get a new key made. As cars have become more sophisticated and sophisticated, so have keys. This makes them harder 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 that you lose yours.
The first thing you need to do when you lose your car keys is to make sure that the key you lost is actually missing. Check car keys lost no spare in your jacket or pants, the backseat, and other places that you may not normally check, such as the inside of your shoe or purse. You should also check your owner's manual to see if there are any specific instructions for the type of key you have for example, how to reset it in case it goes dead.
If you've checked all the possibilities but are still unable to locate your car keys, it is time to call an expert for the replacement. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional, key fob, or switchblade) it can cost you between $50 to $200 to get new keys. If you have a conventional key, the locksmith will typically cut a new key and modify it to work with your vehicle. This is a cheaper option than the dealer's rates, which can cost as much as $320 to replace the lost key.
For a key fob or switchblade key, you'll have to contact your dealer and have your car towed in for them to purchase a new key for your vehicle that is based on the VIN. Then, they'll have to pair the new key with your vehicle's electronic key which could be a costly and lengthy procedure. This is why it's a great idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you can get the assistance of a professional should you ever need to!
Check Your Vehicle's Security System
It's not a secret that a lot of modern cars come with fancy security features that are designed to keep the vehicle's contents safe from thieves. While these security features are generally an excellent thing but they can also make keys for the car more difficult to replace. It is still possible to obtain a replacement key for these vehicles, but the process is more difficult and costly. The cost will be based on the type of key your car uses, which you should be aware of prior to having one made.
The easiest type of car key you can make a spare key for is the traditional double-edged key that can be purchased at any locksmith, hardware store or car 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 cars, however, utilize transponder chips inside the keys to control different aspects of the vehicle including locking and unlocking to turning on and off. The chips have to be programmed using a special machine that is available only in some dealerships.
When you need to make a spare for these more sophisticated cars, a locksmith local to you will be able to assist. They will need the model and year of the vehicle and other information (like your registration number or title) to verify that they are the owner of the vehicle. Some locksmiths can make these keys on the spot, saving you time from visiting dealers.
If you don't have a spare car, the alternative is to go to the dealership. They are the best place to ask because they know the vehicle and what keys you require to start it. This could be costly, but they won't be open for assistance on the road.
Try using a Bluetooth key tracker as an alternative that is affordable. These devices clip onto your key ring and emit a signal you can then connect to an app on your phone. The app will show you where your keys are located, aiding you in finding them and preventing them from being lost in the first place!
Find a New Key
Everyone loses their car keys at one point or another. It can happen at the most awkward of places, such as at a gas station or while taking groceries out of your trunk. It is not difficult to find your keys again however it is stressful if you do not have an extra set of keys at home or with a friend.
There are ways to obtain a replacement key in case you've lost your original. The procedure will depend on the type of key you own and your vehicle.
For example, if you have a key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder it's relatively simple to have a locksmith create a replacement on the spot. This option is less than $200 and is much quicker than purchasing one from a dealer.
You will need to visit the dealer if you have an electronic remote with an external transmitter. The dealer will be able identify your details, and then send you the correct key at a cheaper price than you would pay to locksmith.
If you have evidence of ownership such as the title or registration or registration, a locksmith might be able to make an entirely new key with your VIN. This is a cheaper alternative to going to a dealership however it's not always possible if you have a newer or more expensive vehicle.
The best method to avoid losing your keys is by having a spare. Keep it in a safe place, like your house in order to not have to worry about leaving it in the event that you leave your vehicle. Be sure to check your purses and pockets often, especially if you have coats or jackets with large pockets. Don't forget to look at places you'd never reach, like the inside of your shoes if you have on runners. Make sure you check your trunk if have left the keys there. It's easy for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be stolen when someone steals your car.