How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

Everyone loses their car keys at one time or another. It happens more frequently than people think, but it is a huge inconvenience.

Fortunately, replacing lost car keys is fairly simple depending 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 evidence of ownership.

Retract your Steps

The loss of your car keys can be stressful, especially if it happens at a hectic time of the day when you have to go somewhere. It's not the worst thing that could happen to you. There are several ways to find your car key replacement.

You must first retrace your steps. You can do this by going back to the places you've been and taking a look around, both at the workplace and at home. This will give you an idea of the last location you recalled seeing your keys, and may guide you to the location they might be.

If you're unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps you'll need to call an area locksmith or dealership to get help. 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 will be able to start it. They'll also wipe the old key off your vehicle's system, meaning that even if someone does get their hands on it and steal it, they won't be allowed to drive your car.

Make sure you have your VIN on hand prior to contacting an agent or locksmith. This is the number located 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.

Memory Exercises

If you've lost your car keys, you might be frightened. However, try to keep your cool. This will allow you to think clearly and look more deeply. Relax your eyes, close your eyes and utilize the power of your memory to remember the exact location you last found your car keys the last time. If you can't remember where you put your keys, retrace the steps and look for clues.

If you are still having issues, contact an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area to get help. You'll need to provide them with specific details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll be able to create an original key that matches your security chip. They'll also be able guide you on steps to prevent key loss.

Check Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).

Not too long ago losing or misplacing car keys wasn't a big problem. Contact your local locksmith to find a replacement car key. But as cars have become more advanced as well, so have keys, making them more expensive and difficult to replace. This is why it's crucial to always keep a spare key around or at the very least know the amount your car dealership will charge you for a replacement if you lose one.

It is important to first determine if the key is really missing. Check the pockets in your jacket or pants, the backseat, and other places you might not normally look, such as the inside of a shoe or purse. Also, you should look through the owner's manual to find out if there are specific instructions for the type of key you own like how to reset it in case it becomes dead.

If you've tried everything and still can't locate your car keys, it is time to call an expert for the replacement. The cost of a new key will vary from $50 to over $200, based on the kind you have. If you have a standard key, the locksmith can usually cut a new one and reprogram it to work with your vehicle. This is a cheaper alternative than paying the dealer, who could charge up to $320 for a new key.

You'll need to call your dealer and have your vehicle towing to them so they can purchase a new VIN-based keys for your vehicle. Then, they will have to connect the new key to your vehicle's electronic key this could be a costly and lengthy procedure. This is why it's a good idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance policy, so that you can have the help of an expert if you ever require it!

Verify the security system of your vehicle.

There is no doubt that modern vehicles are fitted with advanced security features that ensure that the car's contents are safe from thieves. These security features make it harder to replace lost key for car the car keys. Fortunately, it's not impossible to get an alternative key for these vehicles although the process is more involved and costly than in the past. The exact cost will differ according to the type of key your car uses, which you should be aware of prior to having one made.

The most straightforward type of car key you can make a spare key for is the classic double-edged key that can be purchased at any locksmith, hardware store or car dealership. It will typically cost less than $10 and work just fine as a backup or to start the car in case of emergency. Transponder chips are employed in the most recent models of keys for cars to control various aspects of the vehicle, including locking and unlocking, turning on and off, and other functions. These chips must be programmed using a special machine that is only available in some dealerships.

A locksmith near you can assist you with a spare key for these cars. They'll need the model and year of the vehicle as well as other information (like your registration number or your title) to confirm that they are the owner of the vehicle. Certain locksmiths can create these keys on the spot, saving you time from having to visit an agent.

The dealership is the best option if you don't have an extra. They are the most familiar with your particular vehicle and the keys required to start it. This can be expensive but they won't be able to provide assistance on the road.

Try a Bluetooth key tracker for an alternative that is affordable. These devices are attached to your key ring, emitting a signal you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then provide you with the location of your keys, aiding you in finding them and prevent them from getting lost in the first place!

Get a new key

Every car owner loses their keys at one time or another. It could happen at the most awkward times, like at a gas station or loading groceries into your trunk. Even though it is easy to find your keys again, it can be a very stressful situation in the event that you don't have a spare set at home or with friends.

There are still ways to get a replacement key in case you've lost your original. The process depends on the kind of key you have and the vehicle you are using.

If you have an ignition lock cylinder key, for example it's relatively simple to have a local locksmith create a new one immediately. This will cost less than $200 and can be done much quicker than purchasing one from a dealer.

You'll need to go to the dealer if you own an electronic remote with an external transmitter. The dealer will locate your information, and then send you the correct key for a lower cost of replacing lost car keys than what you would pay a locksmith.

A locksmith may also be able to make a replacement key using the VIN of your vehicle, so long as you have evidence of ownership like your registration or title. This is a cheaper option than visiting a dealership. However, it might not be feasible if your vehicle is newer or costly.

It is best to have a spare set of keys. Place it in a safe location, like your home, so you don't have to worry about losing it when you leave your car. It's also important to inspect your purses and pockets regularly particularly if you are wearing a jacket or coat with large pockets. Examine places that you may not usually reach, such as the inside of your shoes when you wear shoes. Double-check your trunk if you have left keys in there. It's easy to forget that you put them there, and they're easily stolen if someone else leaves in your car.