How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
It's a fact that every car owner loses their keys at some moment in time. It happens more often than people think, however it can be a major trouble.
Fortunately the replacement of lost car keys is relatively easy depending on the type of key you own. The most basic keys can usually be made at an area hardware store, provided you provide the VIN number or proof of ownership.
Retract your steps
It's a hassle to lose your car keys, especially if it occurs during a busy period of time when you have to go somewhere. It's not the worst thing that can happen. There are a variety of ways to locate your car key replacement.
You must first retrace your steps. This means going back to the places you've been and looking around at home and work. This will help you locate the keys, noting where you last was able to see them.
If you are unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll want to call an auto locksmith or a local locksmith to get help. They'll be able to make a new car keys for you, and also decode the locks you have in place so that only the key will be able to start the vehicle. They'll also erase the old key to ensure that if anyone does manage to get it, they can't drive your car.
Before you speak to a locksmith or dealer, ensure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) available. This is the number found on your driver's side dashboard or door panel and will allow them to know what vehicle you own so that they can design keys that match.
Utilizing Your Memory
If you lose your car keys, you could be anxious. However, try to remain calm. This will allow you to think clearly and thoroughly. Close your eyes, relax and utilize the power of your memory to recall the location where you last found your car keys the last time. If you're struggling to remember the exact location, retrace your steps again and look for any clues that might have surfaced.
If you're experiencing issues, call a locksmith or dealership near you for assistance. You'll need to provide them with information about your vehicle and its security system, and they'll be able make a replacement key that can be paired with your security chip. They'll also be able to give you suggestions on how to prevent any future loss of keys.
Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
A few years ago losing or misplacing car keys wasn't a huge issue. Call your local locksmith and obtain a new car key. As cars have become more sophisticated, so have their keys. This makes them harder to replace and also more expensive. This is why it's essential to always keep an extra key in your car, or at least be aware of the price your car dealership will charge you to replace it if you lose one.
You should first check to find out if the key really missing. This can be done by checking the pockets of the pants or jacket that you wore last time you used your car, looking in the backseat of your vehicle as well as checking out 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 it contains specific instructions on how to reset your key if it becomes dead.
If you have checked everything but still cannot find your car keys, it is time to call a professional for an alternative. The cost of a new key can 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 less expensive option than the dealer's rates which could be as high as $320 to replace the lost key.
If you want a key fob or switchblade key, you'll need to call your dealership and have your vehicle towed to them to request an additional key for your vehicle based on the VIN. They will then have to connect your new key with the vehicle electronically. This could be costly and a lengthy process. This is why it's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance policy, so that you can have the help of a professional should you ever need to!
Verify the security system of your vehicle.
There is no doubt that modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features to safeguard the contents of the car from thieves. Although these features are typically a good thing, they can also make keys for the car more difficult to replace. It's not difficult to find an alternative key for these cars however, the process is more complicated and expensive than in the past. The cost of a new key will vary on the kind of vehicle you have. It is essential to be aware of this prior ordering one.
The classic car key with a double edge can be converted into a spare key at any hardware store or at a dealership. The cost is usually less than $10, and it can be used as a backup key to start your car in an emergency situation. Transponder chips are utilized in the most recent models of keys to control various aspects of the vehicle, such as locking and unlocking, turning off and on, and other functions. The chips have to be programmed using a special machine that is only available at certain dealerships.
A locksmith near you can assist you with an extra key for these advanced cars. They'll need the model and year of your car, as well as some other information to verify that you're the owner (like the registration number of your car or title). Certain locksmiths can create keys on site, saving you time from needing to visit an agent.
The dealership is your best option if you don't own spare. They are the best place to speak to since they know the vehicle and what keys you'll need to get started with it. It could be costly and they won't be able to provide roadside assistance.
To get lost keys for car , try using a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices connect to your key ring and emit an audio signal that you can then connect with an app on your smartphone. The app will show you where your keys are, aiding you in finding them, and stop them from getting lost in the first place!
Get a New Key
Everybody loses their keys at some moment in time. It can happen at the most unavoidable of situations such as at a gas station or while loading groceries into your trunk. Even though it is easy to find your keys once again, it can be a stressful experience when you don't have an extra set at home or with your family.
There are ways to get a new key in case you've lost your original. The procedure will depend on the type of key you own and the car you drive.
For instance, if have a traditional key that fits into an ignition lock cylinder, it's relatively simple to get a locksmith to make a replacement on the spot. This option is less than $200 and can be done much quicker than purchasing one from a dealership.
You will need to visit the dealer if you have remote keys that have an external transmitter. The dealership will be able to find your information and issue you the right key for a much lower price than you would pay for locksmith.
If you have proof of ownership, like an official title or registration, a locksmith may be able to make a new key using your VIN. This is a less expensive alternative to visiting the dealership however, it's not always possible if you own a newer or more expensive vehicle.
It is advisable to have a spare set of keys. Keep it in a safe place, like your house and you won't have to worry about putting it somewhere when you leave your vehicle. Be sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, especially if have an outer garment or jacket that has large pockets. Examine places that you may not normally reach, like the inside of your shoes if you wear runners. Make sure you check your trunk if have left the keys there. It's easy to forget that you put them in there and they could easily be stolen if a driver drives off in your car.