How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
Everyone loses their car keys at one point or another. It happens more frequently than people realize, however it can be a huge hassle.
Fortunately, replacing lost car keys is relatively easy depending on the type of key you have. The most basic keys can usually be made at the local hardware store if you have the VIN number or proof of ownership.
Retract your steps
The loss of your car keys can be difficult, especially when it happens at a hectic time of the day when you need to get somewhere. Fortunately, it's not the end of the world, and there are several ways to help you locate your lost car key replacement.
The first thing you need to do is retrace your steps. This means going back to the places you've been and taking a look around, both at home and work. This will give you an idea of the last location you recalled seeing your keys and can help you find where they could be.
If you can't find your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll need to contact an area locksmith or dealership for assistance. They'll be able to create an entirely new key for you and also decode the existing locks on your vehicle to ensure that only the new key can start it. They will also delete the old key to ensure that if anyone does manage to obtain it, they aren't able to use your vehicle.
Be sure to have your VIN handy prior to contacting a dealer or locksmith. This number is found on the driver's door panel or on the dashboard. It will let them know what vehicle you own and they will be able to create a key that matches.
Utilizing Your Memory
If you've lost your car keys, you might feel panicky. However, try to remain calm. This will help you think clearly and look more thoroughly. Close your eyes, relax and use the power of your memory to remember the exact location you last saw your car keys last. If you're having difficulty remembering where they were, go back your steps and search for any clues that may have been discovered.
If you're experiencing issues, call a locksmith or dealership in your area to get help. You'll have to provide them with information about your vehicle and its security system, and they'll create a new key that can be paired with your existing security chip. They can also give you tips on how to avoid the loss of your keys in the future.
Check Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).
A few years ago, misplacing-or losing-your car keys wasn't a huge problem. You could call your local locksmith and make a new key. However, as cars have become more advanced as well, so have keys, making them more difficult and expensive to replace. This is why it's crucial to always have an extra key in your car or at the very least be aware of the price your car dealership will charge you for a replacement if you lose one.
The first thing to do when you lose a car key is to ensure that the key you lost is not actually missing. Check the pockets in your jacket or pants along with the backseat and other places that you may not normally check for, like the inside of your purse or shoe. Look through your owner's manual to determine if there are any specific instructions on how to reset the key in case it stops working.
If you've checked all the possibilities but are still unable to locate your car keys, it's time to contact an expert to get a new one. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional keys, key fobs or switchblade) it can cost you between $50-$200 to purchase new keys. If you own an old-fashioned key, you could get the locksmith to cut a new key and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is less expensive than the dealer's rates which could be as high as $320 to replace keys that have been lost.
You'll have to contact your dealer and have your car towed for them to order a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. Then, they will have to connect the new key to your vehicle electronically this is a costly and time-consuming procedure. It's a great idea include Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy to ensure that you receive assistance from a professional if needed!
Make sure your vehicle's security system is working
It's not a secret that a lot of modern cars have fancy security features that help keep the vehicle's contents safe from theft. While these security features are generally an excellent thing, they can also make keys for the car more difficult to replace. It's still possible to get an alternative key for these vehicles, but the process is more complex and expensive. The exact cost will differ based on the type of key your vehicle has, and this is something you need to be aware of prior to having one made.
The classic double-edged car keys can be turned into a spare key at any hardware store or dealership. It will typically cost less than $10 and work just fine as a backup or to start the car in an emergency. The latest models of cars, however utilize transponder chips inside the keys to control various aspects of the vehicle including locking and unlocking to switching on and turning off. These chips need to be programmed with a specific machine that is available only at certain dealerships.
When you need to make an extra for these more advanced models of cars, a locksmith local to you should be able to help. They'll need the model and year of your vehicle and other details to confirm that you are the owner (like the registration number of your car or title). Certain locksmiths are capable of making keys on the spot and save you the hassle of having to visit an agent.
If you don't have a spare, the alternative is the dealership. They are the best person to ask because they know the car and the keys you'll need to get started with it. It can be expensive, and they will not be able to assist you on the road.
For a much more affordable alternative, consider a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices connect to your key ring and emit signals that you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then provide you with the location of your keys helping you locate them and prevent them from getting lost in the first place!
Find a new key
Everybody loses their keys at some moment in time. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as at a gas station, or loading groceries into your trunk. Although it's simple to find your keys again, it could be a stressful experience if you don't have an extra set at home or with friends.
There are still options to obtain a new key in the event that you've lost the original. The process is different based on the type of key and the vehicle you are using.
For example, if you have a key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder, it's easy to have a locksmith make a replacement on the spot. This is less than $200, and it's typically quicker than purchasing one from the dealer.
You'll need to go to the dealer if you have a remote key with an external transmitter. The dealer will be able to identify your details, and then send you the correct key for a lower cost than what you would pay a locksmith.
If you have proof of ownership, like the title or registration or registration, a locksmith might be able to make a new key using your VIN. This is a much cheaper alternative to visiting a dealership. However, it may not be feasible if your vehicle is newer or costly.
It is best to have a spare set keys. Place it in a safe location, such as your home, so that you don't need to be concerned about losing it when you leave your vehicle. Check your pockets and purses frequently, especially if wear a coat or jacket with large pockets. Examine places that you may not typically reach, such as the inside of your shoe when you wear shoes. Also, make sure to check the trunk of your car if you put keys there. It's easy to forget that you put them there, and they're easily taken away if someone else drives off in your car.