How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
It's a fact of life that everyone loses car keys at some point. It happens more frequently than people think, however, and it can be a big hassle.
It is possible to replace lost car key s, dependent on the type of key that you own. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership, you can get the most basic keys made at the local hardware store.
Retract Your Steps
Losing your car keys is frustrating, especially when it happens at a hectic time of day and you need to get somewhere. It's not the most unpleasant thing that can happen. There are several ways to locate your car key replacement.
You must first retrace your steps. This involves going back through the places you've visited and taking a look around at home as well as at work. This will give you a good idea of where you remember seeing your keys and could help you find the location they might be.
If you're still having trouble finding your car keys, you can call an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area for help. They'll be able to make a new key for you, and decode the locks that are already in your vehicle so that only the new key can start it. They'll also remove the old key, so that if someone does manage to obtain it, they won't be able to use your vehicle.
Before you call a locksmith or dealer ensure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) available. This is a number that's located on your driver's dashboard or door panel, and it will allow them to know what car you own so they can design an appropriate key for your vehicle.
Memory Exercises
You may be tempted to panic at the thought of losing your car keys However, try to remain calm. This will help you think clearly and search more thoroughly. Close your eyes and relax. Then utilize your memory to recall the last place you saw your keys. If you can't remember the location of your keys then retrace your steps and look for clues.
If you're unable to solve the problem you can contact a local locksmith or dealership for assistance. You'll need to provide them with details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll be able to create keys that match the security chip you have already installed. They'll also be able guide you on steps to prevent key loss.
Verify Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
A few years ago, misplacing-or losing-your car keys was not a big problem. You could just call your local locksmith and make a new key. As cars become more high-tech as well, so have keys, making them more difficult and expensive to replace. That's why it's important to always keep a spare key around or at the very least know how much your car dealer will charge you for a replacement if you lose one.
The first thing to do when you lose your car keys is to confirm that the key you lost is indeed missing. This is done by checking the pockets of the pants or jacket you wore when you last used your car, looking at the back of your vehicle, and even checking places you wouldn't usually look like the inside of a shoe or purse. Go through the owner's manual to see if it has specific instructions on how to reset the key if it is dead.
If you've tried everything and still can't locate your car keys, it is time to call a professional for an alternative. The cost of a new key will range from $50 to $200 depending on the type you own. If you have a traditional key, you could get the locksmith to make a new key and reprogram it for your vehicle. This is a less expensive alternative to paying the dealer, who may charge up to $320 for a new key.
You'll have to contact your dealer and have your vehicle towed to them so they can purchase a new VIN-based keys for your vehicle. Then, they'll have to pair the new key to your vehicle's computer which can be an expensive and lengthy process. This is why it's a good idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you will have the assistance of a professional if you ever need 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 theft. While these security features are generally a good thing however, they can make keys for cars more difficult to replace. It is still possible to obtain keys for replacement for these cars, but the process is more complex and expensive. The cost of a new key will vary on the kind of vehicle you own. It is important to be aware of this prior ordering one.
The most straightforward type of car key you can make a spare key for is the classic double-edged key that can be replaced at any locksmith, hardware store, or car dealership. It will typically cost less than $10 and serve as a backup or to start the car in the event of an emergency. More recent models of cars, however use transponder chips in the keys to control various aspects of the vehicle from locking and unlocking to turning on and starting. The chips have to be programmed by a special machine, which is usually only available at some dealerships.
A locksmith near you can assist you if you need a spare key for these vehicles. They will require the model and year of the vehicle and other details (like your registration number or title) to confirm that they are the owner. Certain locksmiths can create keys on site, saving you time from having to visit a dealer.
If you do not have a spare, the alternative is to go to the dealership. They'll be the most familiar with your specific car and the keys required to start it. It can be costly and they won't be able to provide roadside assistance.
To get a more affordable alternative, try using a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices connect to your key ring, and emit a signal you can connect with an app on your smartphone. The app will then inform you where your keys are located, aiding you in finding them, and stop them from being lost in the first place!
Get a new code
Everybody loses their keys at some moment in time. It can happen at the most unavoidable of situations such as at a petrol station or while loading groceries into your car. Although it's easy to find your keys again, it can be a very stressful scenario in the event that you don't have a spare set in your home or with your friends.
There are still ways to get a replacement key if you've lost the original. The process is different based on your type of key and the vehicle you are using.
For example, if you have a standard key that is inserted into an ignition lock cylinder, it's relatively simple to get a locksmith to make a replacement on the spot. This will cost less than $200 and is much quicker than purchasing one from a dealership.
You'll need to visit the dealer if you have a remote key with an external transmitter. The dealer will be able to locate your information, and send you the correct key for a lower cost than what you would pay a locksmith.
A locksmith might also be able to make a replacement key using the VIN number of your car, as you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title. This is a cheaper option than going to a dealer. However, it might not be a possibility if your vehicle is newer or costly.
It is advisable to have a spare set keys. Keep it in a safe location, such as your home, so that you don't need to worry about losing it if you leave your car. Be sure to check your purses and pockets often, especially if you wear coats or jackets with large pockets. Be sure to check the places you wouldn't normally reach, like the inside of your shoes if you have on runners. Check your trunk to see if you have left the keys there. It's easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be taken if someone drives away in your car.