How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
Everyone loses their car keys at one point or some other time. It happens more frequently than people think and can be a big trouble.
It is possible to replace lost car keys dependent on the type of key you have. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership then you can get 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 hectic time of the day when you need to get somewhere. Fortunately, it’s not the end of the world, and there are several steps you can take to assist you in finding your car key replacement.
You should first retrace all your steps. This can be done by going back to the places you’ve been and looking around, at both the workplace and at home. This will give you a good idea of where you remember seeing your keys and could guide you to where they might be.
If you are unable to locate 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 make an entirely new key for you and also decode the existing locks on your vehicle so that only the new key can start it. They’ll also remove the old key to ensure that if anyone does manage to get it, they won’t be able to drive your vehicle.
Before you speak to an expert locksmith or dealer, ensure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) in your pocket. This number is located on the driver’s door panel or dashboard. It will inform them of the vehicle you own and they will be able to create keys that are compatible with.
Making Use of Your Memory
You might be tempted to fear losing your car keys however, try to remain calm. This will allow you to think clearly and search more thoroughly. Close your eyes, relax and use the power of your memory to recall the exact location you last were last able to see your car keys. If you’re unable to recall where you put your keys, keys retrace the steps and search for clues.
If you’re still having trouble, contact a locksmith or dealership in your area for help. You’ll have to provide them with details about your vehicle and the security system that it uses and they’ll be able to create a new key that can be paired with your existing security chip. They’ll also be able to guide you on steps to prevent key loss.
Verify Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).
It wasn’t that long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big problem. You could simply contact your local locksmith and get a new key made. As cars have evolved and sophisticated, so have keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and costlier. This is why it’s essential to always have a spare key on hand or at the very least be aware of the price your car dealer will charge you for a replacement in the event that you lose one.
The first thing to do when you lose a car key is to ensure that the key you lost is actually missing. This is done by checking the pockets of the clothing you were wearing when you last used your car, or looking inside the back seat of your vehicle, and even checking places that you would not normally look like the inside of a shoe or a purse. Look through your owner’s manual to determine if there are specific instructions on how to reset your key if it becomes dead.
If you’ve checked everything but still cannot find your car keys, it is time to get an expert for an alternative. The cost of a new key can range from $50 to $200 depending on the type you have. If you own an old-fashioned key, you can usually have the locksmith simply cut a new key and reprogram it for your vehicle. This is a less expensive option than the dealer’s rates, which can be as much as $320 to replace keys that have been lost.
If you want a key fob or switchblade key, you’ll need to contact your dealer and have your car towed in for them to request an additional key for your vehicle in accordance with the VIN. They’ll then need to pair your new key with the vehicle electronically. This could be costly and a lengthy process. This is why it’s a great idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you can have the help of a professional if you ever need it!
Make sure your vehicle’s security system is working
It’s no secret that many modern cars have fancy security features that are designed to keep the vehicle’s contents safe from theft. While these security features are generally a good thing however, they can make keys for the car more difficult to replace. It’s still possible to get a replacement key for these cars, however the process is more difficult and costly. The exact cost will vary based on the kind of key your vehicle is using, and you must be aware of prior to having one made.
The most straightforward kind of car key to make a spare for is the classic double-edged car key that can be purchased at any locksmith, hardware store, or car dealership. The cost is typically less than $10, and it will work perfectly as a backup key to start your car in an emergency situation. Transponder chips are employed in more recent models of keys for cars to control various aspects of the vehicle, such as locking and unlocking, turning on and off, and other functions. These chips need to be programmed using a specific machine, which is typically only available at certain dealerships.
If you’re looking to create an extra for these more advanced models of cars, a locksmith local to you should be able to help. They will require the model and year of the car and other details (like your registration number or your title) to confirm that they are the owner. Some locksmiths are able to make these keys onsite, saving you the time of having to visit dealers.
The dealership is your best option if you don’t own spare. They are the most knowledgeable about your car’s model and the keys that are needed to get it started. It can be costly and they won’t be able to assist you on the road.
To get a more affordable alternative, you can try a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices connect to your key ring and emit an audio signal that you can then 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!
Find a new key
Everyone loses their car keys at one point or another. It could happen at the most inconvenient times, such as at a gas station or 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 friend.
There are still alternatives to purchase an alternative key lost in the event that you’ve lost the original. The process varies depending on the type of key and the vehicle you are using.
For instance, if have a standard key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder, it’s fairly easy to have a locksmith create a replacement on the spot. This option costs less than $200, and is usually quicker than buying one from the dealer.
If you have a key fob that has an external transmitter, however, you’ll need to visit the dealer. The dealer will find your information and send you the correct key at a cheaper price than what you would pay a locksmith.
A locksmith may also be able to create a replacement key by using the VIN of your vehicle, so long as you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title. This is a much cheaper alternative than going to a dealer. However, it may not be a possibility if your vehicle is newer or costly.
The best method to avoid losing your keys is by having a spare. 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. Be sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, especially if wear an outer garment or jacket that has large pockets. Examine places that you may not usually reach, such as the inside of your shoes when you wear shoes. Make sure you check your trunk if have left keys in there. It’s easy to forget you put them there, and they’re easily stolen if a driver drives off in your car.