How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
Everyone loses their car keys at one time or some other time. It happens more than people think, but it can be a big trouble.
It is possible to replace lost car key s, dependent on the type of key you own. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership, you can get the most basic keys at the local hardware store.
Retract Your Steps
Losing your car keys is stressful, especially if it happens at a hectic time of day and you need to get somewhere. Fortunately, it's not the end of the world, and there are several steps you can take to help you find your car key replacement.
You must first retrace your steps. This can be done by returning to the places where you've been and looking around, both at your home and work. This will help you find the keys, letting you know where you last saw them.
If you are still unable to locate your car keys, call a locksmith or a dealership nearby for assistance. They'll be able to make an entirely new key for you and decode the locks on your vehicle, so that only the new key is able to start it. They'll also wipe the old key off the system of your vehicle, so even if someone does obtain it the key, they won't be able to drive your car.
Be sure to have your VIN in hand before contacting a dealer or locksmith. It's found on your driver's side dashboard or door panel, and it will allow them to know what vehicle you own so that they can make an appropriate key for your vehicle.
Using Your Memory
You may be tempted be scared of losing your car keys, but keep your cool. This will allow you to think clearly and look more thoroughly. Close your eyes, relax and make use of your memory to recall the location where you last found your car keys the last time. If you're unable to recall where you put your keys then retrace your steps and look for clues.
If you are still having trouble, contact an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area for help. You'll have to give them specific details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll be able to create keys that match your security chip. They'll also provide advice on how to prevent future key losses.
Verify Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big problem. Call your local locksmith to obtain a new car key. As cars become more technological, so too have their keys becoming more difficult and expensive to replace. It's important to have an extra car key or to be aware of 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 make sure that the key you lost is actually missing. This can be done by checking the pockets of the pants or jacket you wore when you last used your car, or looking in the backseat of your vehicle as well as checking out areas you don't normally see like the inside of a shoe or a purse. Look through your owner's manual to see if it has any specific instructions on how to reset your key if it becomes dead.
If you've checked everything and still haven't found the car keys, then you should contact an expert to request new keys. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional, key fob or switchblade), it will cost you between $50 to $200 to get an alternative one. If you have a conventional key, the locksmith will usually cut a new one and reprogram it to match your car. This is a less expensive option than the dealer's price that can cost as much as $320 to replace a lost key.
You'll have to contact your dealer and get your car towed for them to obtain a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. Then, they'll need to pair the new key with your vehicle's computer this can be an expensive and time-consuming procedure. This is why it's a good idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance policy, so that you can have the help of a professional if you ever need to!
Check the security system of your car.
It's no secret that many modern vehicles come with advanced security features that ensure that the car's contents are safe from thieves. These security features make it harder to replace car keys. Fortunately, it's not impossible to find an alternative key for these vehicles although the process is more involved and expensive than it was in the past. The cost of a new key will vary on the kind of vehicle you have. It is essential to be aware of this prior to purchasing one.
The easiest type of car key to create a spare key for is the classic double-edged key which can be re-used at any locksmith, hardware store or car dealership. The price is typically less than $10 and will work perfectly as a backup key to start your car in a dire situation. Modern models of cars, however, incorporate transponder chips into the keys to control different aspects of the car, from locking and unlocking to turning on and starting. The chips have to be programmed using a special device that is only available at certain dealerships.
A locksmith in your area can assist you if you need an extra key for these advanced cars. 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. Some locksmiths are capable of making keys on the spot, saving you the time of having to visit a dealer.
If you don't have a spare car, the next best option is the dealership. They will be the most familiar with your specific car and the keys that are needed to get it started. It could be costly, and they will not be able to assist you on the road.
Try using a Bluetooth key tracker as an alternative that is affordable. These devices are attached to your key ring and emit a signal you can transmit to an app on your phone. The app will display the location of your keys, helping you locate them and prevent them from being lost in the first instance!
Find a New Key
Every car owner loses their keys at some point or another. It can happen in the most inconvenient of times like at a gasstation or when loading groceries into your car. It's not hard to find your keys again however it can be stressful if don't have a spare set of keys at home or with a buddy.
There are still ways to obtain a replacement key in case you've lost your original. The process depends on the type of key you have and the vehicle you are using.
For example, if you have a key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder it's easy to get a locksmith to make a replacement on the spot. This will cost less than $200, and it's often quicker than getting one from a dealership.
You will need to visit the dealer if you own remote keys that have an external transmitter. The dealership will be able locate your information and issue you the right key for a much lower price than you would pay if you went to locksmith.
A locksmith may also be able to make an alternative key by using the VIN number of your car, as long as you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title. This is a less expensive alternative to visiting the dealership however, it's not always possible if you have a newer or more expensive car.
It is advisable 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 when you leave your vehicle. Check your pockets and purses often, especially if you have a coat or jacket with large pockets. Don't forget to look at places you'd never reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you have on runners. Check your trunk to see if you have put your keys in there. It's easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be stolen when someone steals your car.