How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

It's a fact that every car owner loses their keys at some point. It happens more often than most people realize, and it can be a big hassle.

Fortunately, replacing lost car keys can be relatively simple, depending on what type of key you have. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership, you can get the most basic keys at your local hardware store.

Retract Your Steps

It's a hassle to lose your car keys, especially if it happens during a hectic period of the day when you have to go somewhere. Fortunately, it's not the end of the world and there are a variety of steps you can take to help you locate the replacement car key you lost.

You must first retrace your steps. This can be done by returning to the places you've been and looking around, at both your home and work. This will give you a good idea of the last location you remember seeing your keys and could lead you to the location they might be.

If you are still unable to locate your car keys, call a locksmith or a dealership in your area for assistance. They'll be able to make a new car key for you, and will decode the locks you have in place so that only the key is able to start the vehicle. They will also delete the old key so that if someone does manage to steal it, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.

Before you speak to a locksmith or dealer ensure you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) available. This number is located on the driver's door or dashboard. It will allow them to know what vehicle you own and they will be able to create keys that are compatible with.

Making Use of Your Memory

If you lose your car keys, you might feel panicky. But try to remain calm. This will allow you to think clearly and look more thoroughly. Close your eyes and relax. Then utilize your memory to remember the last time you saw your keys. If you're unable to recall the location of your keys you were, go back to the steps and search for clues.

If you're still having issues, contact an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area for help. You'll need to provide them with information about your vehicle and the security system that it uses and they'll create a new key that can be paired with your security chip. They'll also be able to provide you with steps to prevent key loss.

Check Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).

It wasn't too long ago that losing keys to your car were not a major problem. You could simply call your local locksmith to make a new key. However, as cars have become more high-tech as well, so have keys, making them more expensive and difficult to replace. That's why it's important to always have a spare key around, or at least be aware of the price your car dealership will charge you for a replacement in the event that you lose one.

The first thing to do when you lose your car keys is to make sure that the key you lost is actually missing. This is done by checking the pockets of the clothing you wore when you last used your car, looking inside the back seat of your car or even looking in places you wouldn't usually look like the inside of a shoe or replacing lost car keys purse. It is also advisable to go through your owner's manual and find out if there are special instructions for the kind of key you have for example, how to reset it if it goes dead.

If you've tried everything but you are still unable to locate your car keys, you should contact a professional to get a new key. The cost of a new one will vary from $50 to over $200 depending on the type you have. If you have a standard key, the locksmith can typically cut a new key and modify it to match your car. This is a less expensive alternative to paying the dealer, who could charge up to $320 for a new key.

You'll have to contact your dealer and request that your vehicle towed by them to allow them to order a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. Then, they'll need to pair your new key with the vehicle electronically. This could be a costly and time-consuming process. It's a good idea to add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to your policy to ensure that you receive assistance from a professional if needed!

Verify the security system of your vehicle.

It's no secret that a lot of modern cars come with fancy security features that are designed to keep the contents of the vehicle safe from theft. While these features are usually a good thing but they can also make the car keys more difficult to replace. There is still a possibility of getting an alternative key for these cars, but the process is more complicated and expensive. The exact cost will differ depending on the kind of key your vehicle uses, which you should be aware of prior to having one made.

The classic double-edged car keys can be converted into a spare at any hardware store or dealership. The cost is usually less than $10 and can be used as a backup key to start your car in an emergency situation. Transponder chips are utilized in the latest models of keys for cars to control various aspects of the vehicle, including locking and unlocking, switching off and on, and other functions. The chips have to be programmed using a specific machine, which is generally only available at some dealerships.

A local locksmith can help you if you require a spare key for these vehicles. They will require 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. Certain locksmiths can create keys on site and save you the hassle of visiting an agent.

The dealership is your best option if there isn't a spare. They are the best person to ask because they know your car and what keys you require to start it. It can be costly, and they will not be able to provide roadside assistance.

For a much more affordable alternative, you can try a Bluetooth key lost tracker. These devices attach to your key ring and emit a signal you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then display the location of your keys, helping you to find the keys and preventing them from being lost in the first place!

Find a New Key

Every car owner loses their keys at some point or another. It can happen at the most awkward times, like at a gas station, or loading groceries into your trunk. Even though it is easy to locate your keys again, this can be a very stressful scenario in the event that you don't have an extra set at home or with friends.

There are ways to obtain a replacement key if you've lost the original. The process is different based on your type of key and vehicle.

For example, if you have a standard key that fits into an ignition lock cylinder it's easy to have a locksmith make a replacement on the spot. This option is less than $200 and is quicker than purchasing a new one from a dealership.

You'll need to visit the dealer if you have an electronic remote with an external transmitter. The dealer will be able to locate your details and provide you with the right key at a cheaper price than you would pay for a locksmith.

A locksmith may also be able to make an alternative key by using the VIN of your vehicle, so you have evidence of ownership like your registration or title. This is a much cheaper alternative to visiting a dealership. However, it may not be feasible in the case of a vehicle that is older or expensive.

It is best to have a spare set keys. Keep it in a safe location, such as your home, so you do not have to worry about losing it if you leave your vehicle. It is also essential to check your purses and pockets regularly especially if you're wearing an outerwear item with large pockets. Be sure to check places you wouldn't typically reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you wear runners. Also, make sure to check the trunk of your car keys lost replacement, if you've put the keys in there. It's easy to forget you put them in there and they can easily get stolen if someone else takes off in your vehicle.