How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

It's a fact that every car owner loses their keys at some time. It happens more than people think and can be a major trouble.

Fortunately the replacement of lost car keys is fairly simple depending on the kind of key you own. The most basic keys can be made at the local hardware store if you have the VIN number or evidence of ownership.

Retract your steps

It's frustrating to lose your car keys, particularly if it happens during a busy time of the day when you need to be somewhere. However, it's not the end of the world and there are a variety of ways to help you locate your lost car key replacement.

It is recommended to retrace your steps. You can do this by returning to the places where you've been and taking a look around, both at your home and work. This will give you a good idea of where you recalled seeing your keys and can guide you to the location they might be.

If you can't find your car keys after retracing your steps you'll need to contact a local locksmith or dealership for assistance. They'll be able to create an entirely new car key for you, and also decode your locks to ensure that only the key will be able to start the vehicle. They'll also remove the old key out of your vehicle's system, so if someone does manage to gain access to it and steal it, they won't be allowed to drive your car.

Make sure you have your VIN in hand before contacting a dealer or locksmith. This is a number that's located on your driver's side door panel or dashboard, and it will inform them of the car you drive so they can make keys that match.

Memory Exercises

If you lose your car keys, you could be frightened. But try to keep your cool. This will enable you to think clearly and thoroughly. Close your eyes, relax and utilize the power of your memory to remember where you saw your car keys last. If you're having difficulty remembering the exact location, retrace your steps once more and look for any clues that could have surfaced.

If you're still having trouble, contact an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area for help. You'll be required to provide information about your vehicle and the security system that it uses, and they'll create a replacement key that can be paired with your existing security chip. They'll also be able provide you with preventive measures to avoid future key loss.

Verify Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).

It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys was not a big issue. Call your local locksmith to find a replacement car key. However, as cars have become more technological, so too have their keys become more difficult and expensive to replace. That's why it's important to always keep a spare key on hand or at the very least know the amount your car dealer will charge you for a replacement if you lose one.

You must first see if the key is really missing. Examine the pockets of your jacket or pants along with the backseat and other places that you may not normally check, such as the inside of a purse or shoe. It is also advisable to look through the owner's manual to determine if there are specific instructions for the type of key you own like how to replace lost car keys to reset it in case it becomes dead.

If you've tried everything but still cannot find your car keys, it's time to contact a professional for the replacement. The cost of a new key can vary from $50 to over $200 depending on the type you own. If you have a standard key, the locksmith can typically cut a new key and reprogram 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 cheap lost car key replacement key.

For a key fob, or switchblade key, you'll need to call your dealership and have your car towed in for them to request an additional key for your vehicle based on the VIN. Then, they'll need to pair the new key to your vehicle's computer this can be an expensive and time-consuming procedure. It's a good idea to add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy so that you can receive expert assistance if you need it!

Make sure your vehicle's security system is working

It's no secret that many modern vehicles come with advanced security features that safeguard the contents of the car from thieves. While these security features are generally beneficial however, they can make the car keys more difficult to replace. It's still possible to get a replacement key for these cars, however the process is more difficult and costly. The cost of the new key will be contingent on the type of vehicle you have. It is essential to know this before ordering one.

The most straightforward type of car key to make a spare for is the traditional double-edged key that can be replaced at any hardware store, locksmith or car dealership. It will typically cost less than $10 and will serve as a backup or to start the car in case of emergency. Transponder chips are utilized in the latest models of keys for cars to control various aspects of the vehicle, including locking and unlocking, turning on and off, and other functions. These chips must be programmed with a special machine, which is typically only available through certain dealerships.

If you're in need of an extra for these more advanced types of cars, a locksmith local to you should be able to help. They will need the model and year of the car as well as other information (like your registration number or title) to prove that they are the owner. Certain locksmiths can create these keys on-site and save you the hassle of having to visit dealers.

If you don't have a spare car, the alternative is to go to the dealership. They are the best person to talk to because they are familiar with your car and what to do if lost car keys keys you'll need to get started with it. This can be expensive but they won't be available for assistance at the roadside.

Try a Bluetooth key tracker as an affordable alternative. These devices are attached to your key ring and emit a signal you can transmit to an app on your smartphone. The app will show you the location of your keys aiding you in finding the keys and preventing them from getting lost my only car key in the first instance!

Find a New Key

Everyone loses their car keys at some point or another. It can happen in the most inconvenient of times such as at a gas station or while taking groceries out of your trunk. It's not difficult to find your keys however it can be stressful if don't have an extra set of keys at home or with a friend.

There are ways to get a replacement key in case you've lost your original. The procedure varies based on your type of key and the vehicle you are using.

For instance, if have a key that is inserted into an ignition lock cylinder it's easy to have a locksmith create a replacement on the spot. This option is less than $200 and is much faster than buying one from a dealership.

If you have a key fob equipped with an external transmitter, however you'll need to go to the dealer. The dealer will be able to find your details and provide you with the correct key at a cheaper price than what you would pay when you visit an locksmith.

A locksmith may also be able to make a replacement key using the VIN of your vehicle, so long as you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title. This is a cheaper alternative to visiting an auto dealer, but it's not always possible if you own a brand new or more expensive vehicle.

The best way to prevent losing your keys lost is by having a spare. Place it in a safe place, such as your home, so you do not have to be concerned about losing it when you leave your car. Be sure to check your purses and pockets often, especially if you wear an outer garment or jacket that has large pockets. Don't forget to check places you'd never reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you are on runners. Make sure you check your trunk if have put your keys in there. It's easy to forget that you left them there and they're easily stolen if someone else takes off in your vehicle.