How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
It's a fact of life that we all lose car keys at some moment in time. It happens more than people think and can be a major inconvenience.
It is possible to replace lost car keys depending on the type of key that you own. lost key car can usually be made at an area hardware store, provided you provide the VIN number or proof of ownership.
Retract your Steps
It's a hassle to lose your car keys, particularly when it happens during a busy time of the day when you're required to be somewhere. However, it's not the end of the world and there are a variety of ways to assist you in finding your car key replacement.
The first thing you have to do is to retrace your steps. You can do this by going back to the places where you've been and looking around, both at your home and work. This will give you an idea of the last location you remember seeing your keys and can lead you to the location they might be.
If you are unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps you'll need to call a local locksmith or dealership for assistance. They'll be able to create a new car key for you, and will decode your existing locks so that only the key is able to start the vehicle. They'll also remove the old key, so that if anyone does manage to get it, they can't use your vehicle.
Be sure to have your VIN in hand before contacting a dealer or locksmith. This is the number located on your driver's dashboard or door and will inform them of the vehicle you own so that they can make keys that match.
Memory Exercises
If you lose your car keys, you may feel panicky. But try to remain calm. This will allow you to think clearly and thoroughly. Relax your eyes and close them. Then you can use your memory to remember the last place you saw your keys. If you're struggling to remember where they were, retrace your steps again and look for any clues that might have surfaced.
If you're still having issues, contact a locksmith or dealership in your area to get help. You'll need to provide them with details about your car and its security system and they'll be able create a replacement key that can be paired with your security chip. They'll also advise you on steps to prevent key loss.
Verify Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys was not a major problem. Call your local locksmith to obtain a new car key. As cars have become more sophisticated and sophisticated, so have keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and costlier. It's important to have an extra car key, or to know the cost of replacing it in case you lose yours.
The first thing you need to do when you lose a car key is to confirm that the lost key is actually missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the clothing that you wore last time you used your car, looking inside the back seat of your car as well as checking out places you wouldn't usually look like the inside of a shoe or purse. You should also check your owner's manual to find out if there are specific instructions for the type of key you have like how to reset it in the event that it dies.
If you've checked all the possibilities but are still unable to locate your car keys, it's time to contact a professional for an alternative. The cost of a new key will vary from $50 to more than $200 depending on the type you have. If you have a conventional key, the locksmith can usually cut a new one and reprogram it to work with your vehicle. This is less expensive than the dealer's rates, which can be as much as $320 to replace the lost key.
For a key fob or switchblade keys, you'll need to contact your dealer and have the car towing in to order a new key for your vehicle that is based on the VIN. Then, they will have to connect the new key with your vehicle electronically which could be a costly and lengthy process. It's a great idea add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy to ensure that you receive expert assistance if you need it!
Check the security system of your car.
It's not a secret that many modern cars have fancy security features that are designed to keep the contents of the vehicle safe from theft. These security features make it harder to replace car keys. It's still possible to get keys for replacement for these vehicles, but the process is more complicated and expensive. The exact cost will differ according to the type of key your vehicle uses, which you should be aware of prior to having one made.
The most straightforward kind of car key to make 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 it will work perfectly as a backup key to start your car in a dire situation. Transponder chips are used in more recent models of keys to control various aspects of the vehicle, such as locking and unlocking, turning on and off, and other functions. The chips have to be programmed with a specific machine that is only available at certain dealerships.
If you're in need of a spare for these more advanced models of cars, a locksmith local to you should be able to help. They'll need the year and model of your car and other information to verify that you're the owner (like your car registration number or title). Certain locksmiths are able to make keys on the spot, saving you the time of going to an agent.
If you do not have a spare, the alternative is to go to the dealership. They are the best person to speak to since they know your car and what keys you'll need to get started with it. It can be costly and they may not be available for roadside assistance.
Try a Bluetooth key tracker as an alternative that is affordable. These devices are attached to your key ring and emit an audio signal that you can then connect with an app on your smartphone. The app will show you where your keys are, helping you locate them, and stop them from being lost in the first place!
Find a New Key
Everyone loses their keys at some moment in time. It can happen at the most unavoidable of situations, such as at a petrol station or while taking groceries out of your trunk. It is not difficult to find your keys again, but it is stressful if you do not have an extra set of keys at home or with a companion.
There are still ways to get a new key in case you've lost your original. The procedure varies based 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 get a locksmith in your area to make 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 own remote keys that have an external transmitter. The dealer will be able identify your details, and send you the correct key at a cheaper price than you would pay to a locksmith.
A locksmith may also be able to create keys for replacement with the help of your car's VIN, as you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title. This is a cheaper option than going to a dealer. However, it might not be a possibility in the case of a vehicle that is older or has a high price.
The best way to prevent losing your keys is by having a spare. Keep it in a safe location, such as your home and you won't have to worry about putting it in a place when you leave your vehicle. Check your pockets and purses frequently, particularly if you have a coat or jacket with large pockets. Be sure to check places you wouldn't usually reach, such as the inside of your shoe in the event that you wear runners. Finally, be sure to double-check the trunk of your car if you put keys there. It's easy to forget you left them there and they could easily be taken away if someone else drives off in your car.