How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
It's a fact of life that every car owner loses their keys at some point. It happens more often than people think, however it can be a huge trouble.
Fortunately replacing car keys lost is relatively easy depending on the kind of key you have. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership you can have the most basic keys at your local hardware store.
Retract Your Steps
The loss of your car keys can be difficult, especially when it happens at a busy time of the day and you need to get somewhere. However, it's not the end of the world, and there are several ways to assist you in finding the replacement car key you lost.
You should first retrace all your steps. This can be done by returning to the places you've been and taking a look around, both at your home and work. This will give you an idea of where you remember seeing your keys, and may help you find the location they might be.
If you still can't locate your car keys, call an auto locksmith or a dealership nearby for assistance. They'll be able to make the new key for you and also decode the existing locks on your vehicle to ensure that only the new key will be able to start it. They'll also erase the old key so that if someone does manage to get it, they aren't able to use your vehicle.
Before you speak to a locksmith or dealer ensure you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) available. This number is found on the driver's door panel or dashboard. It will allow them to know what car you own and they will be able to create keys that match.
Memory Exercises
If you lose your car keys, you might be anxious. But try to remain calm. This will help you think clearly and search more thoroughly. Close your eyes, relax and make use of your memory to remember the location where you last found your car keys the last time. If you're unable to recall where your keys were you were, go back to the steps and search for clues.
If you're having no luck you can contact a local locksmith or dealership to get help. You'll be required to provide details about your vehicle and the security system it has and they'll be able make a replacement key that will pair with your existing security chip. They can also give you advice on how to prevent any future loss of keys.
Check Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).
It wasn't long ago that losing keys to your car were not a big problem. Call your local locksmith to obtain a new car key. As cars have evolved and sophisticated, so have keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and costlier. That's why it's important to always have a spare key around or at the very least know the amount your car dealer will charge to replace it if you lose one.
You must first determine if the key is really missing. Check the pockets in your pants or jacket along with the backseat and other places you may not normally go for, like the inside of your shoe or purse. Look through your owner's manual to determine if it contains specific instructions on how to reset the key if it becomes dead.
If you've checked everything and still haven't found your car keys, then you should contact an expert to request a new key. The cost of a new key can range from $50 to $200 based on the type you have. If you have a conventional key, a locksmith can usually cut a new one and modify it to match your car. This is a less expensive option than the dealer's rates, which can be as much as $320 to replace a lost key.
You'll have to contact your dealer and get 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 to the vehicle electronically. This can be a costly and lengthy process. It's a good idea to include Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy so that you can receive expert assistance if you need it!
Make sure your vehicle's security is checked.
It's no secret that many modern cars are equipped with advanced security features that safeguard the contents of the car from theft. While these security features are generally beneficial however, they can make the car keys more difficult to replace. Fortunately, it's not impossible to obtain an alternative key for these cars, though the process is more complicated and expensive than in the past. The cost of a new key will depend on the kind of vehicle you have. It is essential to be aware of this prior ordering one.
The easiest type of car key you can make a spare key for is the traditional double-edged key that can be replaced at any hardware store, locksmith or car dealership. The cost is typically less than $10, and it is perfect as a backup key or to start your car in a dire situation. The latest 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. The chips have to be programmed with a special machine, which is generally only available at certain dealerships.
If you're in need of an extra for these more sophisticated cars, a locksmith local to you is likely to be able. They'll need the model and year of the car and other details (like your registration number or your title) to confirm that they are the owner. Certain locksmiths are capable of making keys on the spot, saving you the time of having to visit dealers.
The dealership is the best option if there isn't a spare. They are the best person to ask because they know your car and what keys you'll need to get started with it. This can be costly, however, and they will not be able to provide assistance at the roadside.
If you want a less expensive alternative, consider a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices connect 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 to find the keys and preventing them from getting lost in the first instance!
Get a new key
Everybody loses their keys at some time or another. It can happen in the most awkward of places such as at a petrol station or while taking groceries out of your trunk. Even though it is easy to locate your keys again, it could be a stressful experience in the event that you don't have a spare set at home or with your friends.
There are, however, options to obtain a new key if you have lost the original. The procedure varies based on the kind of key and your vehicle.
If you have an ignition lock cylinder key, for example it's fairly easy to have a local locksmith make a replacement on the spot. This will cost less than $200 and is usually quicker than buying one from the dealership.
If you have a key fob equipped with an external transmitter, however you'll need to visit the dealer. The dealer will be able to identify your details, and send you the correct key at a lower price than you would pay to a locksmith.
A locksmith might also be able create keys for replacement 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 cheaper option than going to a dealer. However, it may not be possible when your car is older or costly.
The best way to avoid losing your keys is by having an extra. Keep it in a safe place, such as your home, so that you do not have to worry about losing it if you leave your car. It is also essential to check the pockets and purses frequently especially if you're wearing an outerwear item with large pockets. Be sure to check the 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 for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be stolen when someone steals your vehicle.