How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
Every car owner loses their keys at one time or some other time. It happens more often than most people realize it can be a huge problem.
Fortunately replacing car keys lost can be relatively simple depending on the type of key you have. The most basic keys can usually be made at the local hardware store if you have the VIN number or evidence of ownership.
Retract Your Steps
Losing your car keys can be difficult, especially when it happens at a hectic time of day and you're required to travel. Fortunately, it's not the end of the world, and there are several ways to assist you in finding your car key replacement.
You must first retrace your steps. This involves going back through the places you've been and looking around at home as well as at work. This will help you locate the keys by telling you where you last seen them.
If you're still having trouble finding your car keys, contact a locksmith or dealership in your area for help. They will be able create a new car key for you, and decode your locks to ensure that only the key will be able to start the vehicle. They'll also erase the old key out of your vehicle's system, so should someone manage to get their hands on it, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.
Make sure you have your VIN on hand before contacting an agent or locksmith. The VIN is on the driver's door or dashboard. It will inform them of the car you own and they will be able to create keys that match.
Memory Exercises
You might be tempted to panic at the thought of losing your car keys, but be calm. This will help you think clearly and search more thoroughly. Relax your eyes, close your eyes and make use of your memory to recall the exact location you last saw your car keys last. If lost keys for car having trouble remembering where they were, retrace your steps once more and look for any clues that could have surfaced.
If you're not getting any luck try contacting a locksmith in your area or dealership for assistance. They'll require details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll be able to create keys that match your security chip. They'll also advise you on ways to prevent future key loss.
Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
A few years ago, misplacing-or losing-your car keys was not a big problem. Call your local locksmith and get a new car key. But as cars have become more technological, so too have their keys becoming more expensive and difficult to replace. It's important to have an extra car key or to be aware of the cost of replacing it in case you lose yours.
You must first find out if the key really missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the clothing you wore when you last used your car, looking at the back of your car, and even checking areas you don't normally see like the inside of a shoe or purse. Check your owner's guide to determine if it contains 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 contact an expert to get the replacement. The cost of a new one will vary from $50 to more than $200, based on the kind you have. If you have a traditional key, you can have the locksmith simply cut a new one and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is a much cheaper alternative to paying the dealer, who could charge up to $320 for a new key.
You'll need to call your dealer and have your vehicle towed for them to purchase a new VIN-based keys for your vehicle. Then, they'll need to connect the new key to your vehicle's computer this is a costly and time-consuming process. This is why it's a good idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you can have the help of a professional should you ever need to!
Make sure your vehicle's security is checked.
It's not a secret that many modern cars have fancy security features that are designed to protect the contents of the car from thieves. While these features are usually a good thing however, they can make the car keys more difficult to replace. However, it's not impossible to obtain an alternative key for these cars, though the process is more complicated and costly than it was in the past. The cost of a new key will vary on the kind of vehicle you own. It is essential to be aware of this prior to purchasing one.
The easiest type of car key you can create a spare key for is the classic double-edged car key that can be replaced at any locksmith, hardware store or car dealership. The cost is usually less than $10 and can be used as a backup key or to start your car in an urgent situation. More recent models of automobiles, however, utilize transponder chips inside the keys to control different aspects of the car, from locking and unlocking to turning on and starting. These chips need to be programmed with a special machine, which is generally only available at some dealerships.
A local locksmith can help you if you need a spare key for these cars. They'll need the model and year of the vehicle as well as other information (like your registration number or title) to prove that they are the owner. Some locksmiths will be capable of making keys in-person, saving you the time of having to visit an agent.
If you don't have a spare car, the alternative is to go to the dealership. They are the best person to speak to since they know your car and what keys you require to start it. This can be costly, but they won't be available for assistance on the road.
Try an Bluetooth key tracker as an alternative that is affordable. 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 located, helping you find them and preventing them from being lost in the first place!
Find a New Key
Everybody loses their keys at some moment in time. It can happen in the most unavoidable of situations, such as at a gas station or while taking groceries out of your trunk. Although it's easy to find your keys once again, this can be a very stressful scenario if you don't have an extra set at home or with friends.
There are still alternatives to purchase a new key if you have lost the original. The process is different based on your type of key and vehicle.
For instance, if you have a key that fits into an ignition lock cylinder, it's relatively simple to have a locksmith make an immediate replacement. This is less than $200, and it's typically quicker than purchasing one from the dealership.
You'll need to visit the dealer if you own an electronic remote with an external transmitter. The dealer will be able locate your information and issue you the right key at a lower cost than when you visit locksmith.
If you have evidence of ownership, like a registration or title or a certificate of ownership, a locksmith might be able to create an entirely new key with your VIN. This is a cheaper option than visiting a dealership. However, it might not be a possibility if your vehicle is newer or expensive.
It is best to keep a spare set of keys. Keep it in a secure place, such as your home, so that you don't need to worry about losing it when you leave your vehicle. It's also important to inspect your purses and pockets regularly especially if you're wearing a jacket or coat with large pockets. Don't forget to check places that you would not normally reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you are on runners. Finally, be sure to check the trunk of your car, if you've put keys there. It's easy for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be stolen when someone steals your car.