How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

It's a fact of life that we all lose car keys at some time. It happens more frequently than people realize, however, and it can be a big trouble.

Fortunately replacing car keys lost is fairly simple depending on the type of key you have. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership you can have the most basic keys made at your local hardware store.

Retract Your Steps

Losing your car keys is difficult, especially when it happens at a busy time of the day when you're required to travel. Fortunately, it's not the end of the world and there are a number of steps you can take to help you locate the replacement car key you lost.

You should first retrace all your steps. You can do this by going back to the places you've been and taking a look around, both at your home and work. This will help you find the keys by telling you the last time you seen them.

If you still can't locate your car keys, call an auto locksmith or a dealership nearby for assistance. They'll be able to create the new key for you, and decode the existing locks on your vehicle to ensure that only the new key can start it. They'll also remove the old key off your vehicle's system, meaning that even if someone does gain access to it, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.

Before you contact a locksmith or dealer make sure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) available. This number is found on the driver's door or on the dashboard. It will inform them of the car you own, so they can make keys that are compatible with.

Making Use of Your Memory

You might be tempted to panic at the thought of losing your car keys however, keep your cool. This will allow you to concentrate and thoroughly. Close your eyes and take a moment to relax. Then you can use your memory to recall the last place you saw your keys. If you can't remember where your keys were then retrace your steps and search for clues.

If you're having no luck try contacting a locksmith in your area or dealership for assistance. They'll require details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll then be able create an original key that matches the security chip you have already installed. They'll also be able to give you suggestions on how to prevent any future loss of keys.

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

It wasn't long ago that losing keys to your car was not a major problem. You could just call your local locksmith to get a new key made. As cars have evolved and so have their keys. This makes them more difficult to replace lost car key and more expensive. This is why it's crucial to always keep a spare key around or at the very least know the amount the dealership for your car will charge you for a replacement in the event that you lose one.

The first thing you need to do when you lose your car keys is to confirm that the lost key is not actually missing. Check the pockets in your jacket or pants, the backseat, and other places you may not normally go, such as the inside of your purse or shoe. Also, you should check your owner's manual to see if there are any specific instructions for the type of key you have like how to reset it if it dies.

If you have checked everything but still cannot find your car keys, it's time to contact an expert for an alternative. The cost of a new key will vary from $50 to over $200 depending on the type you own. If you have a conventional key, a locksmith can typically cut a new key and change it's programming to match your car. This is a less expensive option than the dealer's rates which could be as high as $320 to replace the lost key.

You'll need to call your dealer and have your vehicle towed to them so they can order a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. They will then have to pair your new key with your vehicle electronically. This could be a costly and time-consuming process. It's a great idea include Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy so that you can get expert help if needed!

Verify the security system of your vehicle.

It's no secret that many modern cars have fancy security features designed to keep the vehicle's contents safe from theft. These security features make it harder to replace the car keys. It is still possible to obtain an alternative key for these vehicles, but the process is more complex and costly. The cost of a new key will depend on the kind of vehicle you have. It is essential to know this before ordering one.

The most straightforward type 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 is usually less than $10 and will serve as a backup or to start the car in an emergency. The latest models of cars, however, incorporate transponder chips into the keys to control different aspects of the vehicle from locking and unlocking to switching on and turning off. These chips need to be programmed by a special machine, which is typically only available at certain dealerships.

A locksmith near you can assist you if you require an extra key for these advanced cars. They will need to know the year and model of your car, as well as some other details to prove that you are the owner (like the registration number of your car or title). Some locksmiths will be capable of making keys in-person, saving you the time of having to visit dealers.

The dealership is your best option if you don't have spare. They are the most familiar with your particular vehicle and the keys that are required to get it running. This can be costly but they won't be available for assistance on the road.

Try using a Bluetooth key tracker as an affordable alternative. These devices clip onto your key ring and emit a signal you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will show you where your keys are, helping you find them and preventing them from getting lost in the first place!

Get a New Key

Every car owner loses their keys at some point or another. It can happen at the most awkward of places such as at a petrol station or while loading groceries into your trunk. It is not difficult to find your keys again however it is stressful if you do not have an extra set of keys at home or with a buddy.

There are still ways to get a new key if you've Lost Key To My Car the original. The procedure is dependent on the kind of key you have and the vehicle you are using.

For instance, if you have a standard key that fits into an ignition lock cylinder, it's relatively simple to get a locksmith to make an immediate replacement. This is less than $200 and is quicker than purchasing a new one from a dealership.

If you have a key fob that has an external transmitter, however you'll need go to the dealer. The dealer will be able to find your information and send you the correct key at a cheaper price than what you would pay a locksmith.

A locksmith might also be able to make a replacement key using the VIN of your vehicle, so long as you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title. This is a less expensive alternative than going to a dealer. However, it may not be a possibility in the case of a vehicle that is older or has a high price.

The best way to avoid losing your keys is by having an extra. Keep it in a safe location, like your home in order to not have to worry about putting it in a place when you leave your vehicle. Check your pockets and purses frequently, especially if have coats or jackets with large pockets. Be sure to check places you wouldn't normally reach, like the inside of your shoe in the event that you wear runners. Also, make sure to check the trunk of your car, if you've put the keys in there. It's easy to forget that you left them there and they're easily stolen if a driver takes off in your vehicle.