How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
It's a fact of life that everyone loses car keys at some moment in time. It happens more than people think and can be a big trouble.
Fortunately the replacement of lost car keys is relatively easy, depending on what type of key you own. The most basic keys can be made at an area hardware store, provided you can provide the VIN number or evidence of ownership.
Retract your Steps
It's a hassle to lose your car keys, especially if it happens during a busy period of the day when you're required to be somewhere. It's not the worst thing in the world. There are many ways to locate your car key replacement.
The first thing you have to do is retrace your steps. This means going back through the places you've visited and taking a look around at home as well as at work. This will help you find the keys, letting you know the last time you saw 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 for assistance. They'll be able to create a new key for you and decode the locks on your vehicle, so that only the new key can start it. They'll also erase the old key, so that if anyone does manage to steal it, they aren't able to use your vehicle.
Before you call an expert locksmith or dealer, make sure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) in your pocket. This is a number that's found on your driver's side dashboard or door panel and will inform them of the car you own so they can create a new key to match.
Making Use of Your Memory
You may be tempted be scared of losing your car keys, but try to remain calm. This will help you think clearly and search more thoroughly. Close your eyes and take a moment to relax. Then utilize your memory to remember the last place you saw your keys. If you can't remember where your keys were then retrace your steps and look for clues.
If you are still having issues, contact an auto locksmith or a dealership near you for assistance. You'll have to provide them with details about your vehicle and the security system that it uses, and they'll be able create a new key that is compatible with your existing security chip. They'll also be able to advise you on preventive measures to avoid future key loss.
Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
It wasn't too long ago that losing keys to your car was not a major problem. Contact your local locksmith to find a replacement car key. As cars evolved, so have their keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and costlier. This is why it's crucial to keep an extra key in your car or at the very least know how much 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 a car key is to make sure that the key you lost is not actually missing. Examine the pockets of your pants or jacket along with the backseat and other places you may not normally look for, like the inside of a purse or shoe. Go through the owner's manual to see if it has any specific instructions on how to reset your key if it becomes dead.
If you have checked everything and still can't locate your car keys, it is time to call an expert for the replacement. Depending on replacing a lost car key of key you own (traditional keys, key fobs or switchblade) it could cost you anything from $50 to $200 to buy new keys. If you own a traditional key, the locksmith can typically cut a new key and reprogram it to work with your vehicle. This is less expensive than the dealer's rates which can cost as much as $320 to replace the lost key.
For a key fob or switchblade key, you'll have to call your dealership and have the car towing in to request the new key for your vehicle in accordance with the VIN. Then, they'll have to pair the new key with your vehicle electronically this is a costly and lengthy process. It's a great idea include Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to your policy so that you can get expert help if needed!
Check Your Vehicle's Security System
It's not a secret that a lot of modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features that help protect the contents of the car from thieves. These security features can make it difficult to replace keys for your car. It is still possible to obtain keys for replacement for these vehicles, but the process is more difficult and expensive. The cost of a new key will vary on the kind of vehicle you have. It is important to be aware of this prior to purchasing one.
The classic double-edged car key can be made into a spare at any hardware store or dealership. The cost is typically less than $10, and it is perfect as a backup key to start your car in a dire situation. Modern models of cars, however incorporate transponder chips into the keys to control various aspects of the car including locking and unlocking to switching on and turning off. These chips must be programmed with a specific device that is only available in some dealerships.
A locksmith in your area can assist you if you require a spare key for these vehicles. They will need the model and year of the vehicle, along with some other details (like your registration number or title) to confirm that they are the owner. Certain locksmiths can create keys on site which will save you time from needing to visit an agent.
If you don't have a spare, the alternative is the dealership. They are the most knowledgeable about your specific car and the keys required to get it running. This can be expensive, however, and they won't be able to provide assistance at the roadside.
For a much more affordable alternative, consider a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices attach to your key ring and emit a signal that you can then connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then inform you where your keys are, helping you find them, and stop them from getting lost in the first place!
Find a New Key
Everyone loses their keys at some moment in time. It can happen in the most inconvenient of times such as at a gas station or while loading groceries into your trunk. It is not difficult to find your keys, but it is stressful if you do not have a spare set of keys at home or with a companion.
There are still options for you to get a new key in the event that you've lost the original. The procedure will depend on the type of key you have and your vehicle.
For instance, if you have a traditional key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder, it's easy to get a locksmith to make an immediate replacement. This will cost less than $200 and can be completed quicker than purchasing a new one from a dealership.
You'll need to visit the dealer if you own a remote key with an external transmitter. The dealer will be able to locate your information, and then send you the correct key for a lower cost than you'd pay a locksmith.
If you have evidence of ownership, such as the title or registration or a certificate of ownership, a locksmith might be able create keys using your VIN. This is a less expensive alternative to visiting a dealership. However, it might not be a possibility when your car is older or costly.
The best way to avoid losing your keys is by having a spare. Place it in a secure place, like your house, so that you don't have to worry about putting it somewhere when you leave your vehicle. Be sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, especially if wear coats or jackets with large pockets. Be sure to check places you wouldn't usually reach, such as the inside of your shoe when you wear shoes. Make sure you check your trunk if have left the keys there. It's easy for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be taken when someone drives away in your car.