How to Find Your
Lost Car Key Replacement
Every car owner loses their keys at one point or another. It happens more often than people think however it can be a major hassle.
Fortunately,
replacing lost car keys can be relatively simple, depending on what type of key you have. The most basic keys can usually be made at the local hardware store if you provide the VIN number or evidence of ownership.
Retract Your Steps
It's a hassle to lose your car keys, especially if it occurs during a busy period of the day when you have to go somewhere. It's not the most unpleasant thing that can happen. There are a variety of ways to locate your car key replacement.
The first thing you need to do is retrace your steps. This means going back through the places you've visited and looking around at home and work. This will help you find the keys, letting you know when you last was able to see them.
If you can't find 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 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 will also delete the old key, so that if anyone does manage to steal it, they won't be able to use your vehicle.
Be sure to have your VIN in hand before you contact an agent or locksmith. This is a number that's located on your driver's side door panel or dashboard, and it will allow them to know what vehicle you own so that they can make an appropriate key for your vehicle.
Memory Exercises
If you've
cheap lost car key replacement your car keys, you may feel panicky. However, try to remain calm. This will enable you to think clearly and thoroughly. Close your eyes and relax. Then utilize your memory to remember the last time you viewed your keys. If you're struggling to remember the exact location, retrace your steps once more and look for any clues that could have surfaced.
If you are experiencing issues, call an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area for help. You'll need to provide them with details about your vehicle and its security system and they'll be able to create a replacement key that is compatible with your security chip. They can also give you advice on how to prevent any future loss of keys.
Check Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).
In the past, misplacing-or losing-your car keys was not a big problem. Call your local locksmith to obtain a new car key. As cars evolved and so have their keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and also more expensive. It's important to have an extra car key or to know the cost of replacing it in the event you lose yours.
The first thing you need to do when you lose a car key is to confirm that the key you lost is not actually missing. Examine the pockets of your jacket or pants as well as the back of your car, and other places that you may not normally check for, like the inside of your purse or shoe. Also, you should go through your owner's manual and determine if there are specific instructions for the kind of key you have, such as how to reset it if it dies.
If you've done everything you can and still can't find your car keys, then you should contact an expert to request an alternative key. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional, key fob, or switchblade) it could cost you between $50-$200 to purchase an alternative one. If you have a traditional key, you could have the locksmith simply cut a new key and reprogram it for your vehicle. This is less expensive than the dealer's prices that can be as much as $320 to replace the
lost key.
If you want a key fob or switchblade key, you'll have to contact your dealer and have the car towed in for them to purchase the 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. This is why it's a good idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance, so you can get the assistance of a professional if you ever need it!
Check Your Vehicle's Security System
There is no doubt that modern vehicles are fitted with advanced security features that ensure that the car's contents are safe from thieves. While these security features are generally an excellent thing but they can also make keys for cars more difficult to replace. Fortunately, it's not impossible to obtain a new key for these cars, though the process is more involved and expensive than it was in the past. The cost will be depending on the type of key your car is using, and you must be aware of prior to getting one made.
The most straightforward type of car key you can create a spare key for is the classic double-edged key that can be replaced at any locksmith, hardware store or car dealership. The cost is typically less than $10, and it is perfect as a backup key to start your car in an urgent situation. Modern models of cars, however use transponder chips in the keys to control various aspects of the vehicle including locking and unlocking to switching on and turning off. These chips must be programmed using a specific machine, which is typically only available at some dealerships.
A locksmith in your area can assist you if you need a spare key for these cars. They will need to know the model and year of your vehicle and other details to prove that you're the owner (like the registration number of your car or title). Certain locksmiths can create keys on site and save you the hassle of visiting a dealer.
If you do not have a spare, the next best option is the dealership. They are the best place to talk to because they are familiar with your car and what keys you need to start it. It can be expensive and they may not be available for roadside assistance.
Try a Bluetooth key tracker as an alternative that is affordable. These devices connect to your key ring, emitting signals that you can connect with an app on your smartphone. The app will provide you with the location of your keys aiding you in finding them and preventing them from being lost in the first place!
Find a New Key
Everybody loses their keys at some time or another. It happens at the most awkward times, like at a station or loading groceries into your trunk. Even though it is easy to find your keys again, it could be a stressful experience when you don't have a spare set at home or with your family.
There are ways to get a replacement key if you've lost your original. The process is different based on the kind of key and your vehicle.
If you own an ignition lock key that is a cylinder, like, it is relatively easy to have a local locksmith make a new one on the spot. This is less than $200 and is often quicker than getting one from the dealer.
If you have a key fob equipped with an external transmitter, you'll need to visit the dealer. The dealer will be able locate your information and issue you the right key at a lower cost than for locksmith.
If you have proof of ownership, such as an official title or registration or a certificate of ownership, a locksmith might be able to make an entirely new key with your VIN. This is a less expensive alternative to visiting a dealership. However, it might not be a possibility in the case of a vehicle that is older or has a high price.
It is best to have a spare set of keys. Keep it in a safe location, such as your home, so you don't have to worry about losing it when you leave your vehicle. Check your pockets and purses frequently, particularly if you have coats or jackets with large pockets. Be sure to check places you wouldn't typically reach, such as the inside of your shoe when you wear shoes. Check your trunk to see if you have left keys in there. It's easy for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be stolen when someone drives away in your car.
