How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

Everyone loses their car keys at one time or some other time. It happens more often than people think however it is a huge trouble.

It is possible to Replace Lost Car Key lost car keys, dependent on the type of key you own. 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

It's frustrating to lose your car keys, especially when it happens during a hectic period of the day when you need to be somewhere. It's not the most unpleasant thing in the world. There are a variety of ways to find your car key replacement.

The first thing you have to do is retrace your steps. You can do this by returning to the places where you've been to and taking a look around, both at the workplace and at home. This will give you a good idea of the last location you recalled seeing your keys and can help you find where they could be.

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 a new key for you and decode the existing locks on your vehicle, so that only the new key is able to start it. They'll also erase the old key from your vehicle's system, meaning that if someone does manage to obtain it, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.

Be sure to have your VIN in hand prior to contacting an agent or locksmith. The VIN is on the door of the driver or dashboard. It will inform them of the car you own, so they can make keys that are compatible with.

Memory Exercises

If you've lost your car keys, you could feel panicky. Try to keep your cool. This will allow you to think clearly and search thoroughly. Close your eyes and take a moment to relax. Then, use your memory to recall the last time you saw your keys. If you're struggling to remember where they were, retrace your steps again and look for any clues that may have been discovered.

If you're unable to solve the problem you can contact a local locksmith or dealer for assistance. You'll have to provide them with information about your vehicle and its security system, and they'll be able create a replacement key that can be paired with your existing security chip. They'll also be able guide you on steps to prevent key loss.

Make sure you have a valid vehicle Identification (VIN).

It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys was not a huge issue. Call your local locksmith and obtain a new car key. As cars become more sophisticated, so have their keys. This makes them harder to replace and costlier. That's why it's important to keep an extra key in your car or at a minimum, know the amount your car dealership will charge you for a replacement in the event that you lose one.

The first thing you need to do when you lose a car key is to make sure that the key you lost is not actually missing. Check the pockets of your jacket or pants along with the backseat and other places you might not normally check, such as the inside of your purse or shoe. It is also advisable to go through your owner's manual and see if there are any special instructions for the kind of key you have like how to reset it in case it becomes dead.

If you've done everything you can and you are still unable to locate the car keys, then it's time to call an expert to request a new key. The cost of a new key can vary from $50 to more than $200, based on the kind you have. If you have an old-fashioned key, you can get the locksmith to cut a new one and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is a cheaper alternative than paying the dealer, who could charge up to $320 for a replacement key.

For a key fob, or switchblade key, you'll need to call your dealership and have your vehicle towed to them to order a new key for your vehicle based on the VIN. Then, they'll have to pair the new key with your vehicle's computer, which can be an expensive and time-consuming procedure. It's a good idea to add 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 vehicles come with sophisticated security features designed to keep the contents of the vehicle safe from thieves. Although these features are typically beneficial however, they can make the car keys more difficult to replace. It is still possible to obtain keys for replacement for these cars, but the process is more complex and expensive. The cost of the new key will be contingent on the type of vehicle you have. You should be aware of this prior ordering one.

The easiest 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. It typically costs less than $10 and will work just fine as a backup or to start the car in the event of an emergency. More recent models of cars, however, incorporate transponder chips into the keys to control different aspects of the car including locking and unlocking to turning on and off. The chips have to be programmed with a specific machine that is only available in some dealerships.

A local locksmith can help you with a spare key for these vehicles. They'll need the model and year of the vehicle as well as other information (like your registration number or title) to confirm that they are the owner of the vehicle. Some locksmiths can make these keys on-site, saving you time from visiting an agent.

If you don't have a spare car, the next best option is the dealership. They'll be the most familiar with your particular vehicle and the keys that are required to start it. This can be expensive, however, and they will not be able to provide assistance on the road.

If you want a less expensive alternative, consider a Bluetooth key 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 show you the location of your keys, helping you locate them and preventing them from getting lost in the first place!

Get a New Key

Everyone loses their car keys at some point or another. It could happen at the most inconvenient times, while at a station or loading groceries into 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 ways to obtain a replacement lost car keys key in case you've lost your original. The process varies depending on your type of key and the vehicle you are using.

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

If you have a key fob that has an external transmitter, you'll have to go to the dealer. The dealer will be able to locate your details and provide you with the correct key for a much lower price than you would pay when you visit a locksmith.

If you have evidence of ownership like an official title or registration, a locksmith may be able to create an entirely new key with your VIN. This is a cheaper option to visiting a dealership. However, it may not be feasible when your car is older or costly.

The best way to prevent losing your keys is having a spare. Place it in a safe location, like your home, so you don't have to worry about losing it when you leave your car. Make sure to check your purses and pockets often, especially if you wear an outer garment or jacket that has large pockets. Be sure to check places you wouldn't typically reach, such as the inside of your shoes in the event that you wear runners. Make sure you check your trunk if have left keys in there. It's easy to forget you put them there, and they can easily get stolen if someone else leaves in your car.