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 often than people think, however it can be a major hassle.
Fortunately replacing car keys lost is relatively easy, depending on what type of key you own. 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
Losing your car keys can be frustrating, especially when it happens at a busy time of day and you need to get somewhere. However, it's not the end of the world, and there are several steps you can take to assist you in finding your lost car key replacement.
The first thing to do is retrace your steps. This can be done by returning to the places you have been and taking a look around, both at your home and work. This will help you locate the keys by letting you know where you last was able to see them.
If you're still having trouble finding your car keys, contact a locksmith or dealership nearby for assistance. They'll be able to make a new key for you, and decode the existing locks on your vehicle, so that only the new key will be able to start it. They'll also wipe the old key off the system of your vehicle, so if someone does manage to get their hands on it, they won't be able to drive your car.
Make sure you have your VIN handy before you contact a dealer or locksmith. This number is found on the driver's door panel or dashboard. It will allow them to know what car you own so they can create keys that match.
Using Your Memory
You may be tempted be scared of losing your car keys, but be calm. This will allow you to think clearly and conduct a thorough search. Close your eyes, relax and utilize the power of your memory to recall the exact location you last were last able to see your car keys. If you can't remember the location of your keys, retrace the steps and look for clues.
If you're still having issues, contact a locksmith or dealership in your area to get help. You'll need to provide them with information about your vehicle as well as its security system. They'll be able to create an original key that matches your security chip. They'll also be able to give you suggestions on how to prevent any future loss of keys.
Make sure you have a valid vehicle Identification (VIN).
Not too long ago, misplacing-or losing-your car keys was not a big problem. You could simply contact your local locksmith and make a new key. However, as cars have become more high-tech, so too have their keys, making them more expensive and difficult to replace. This is why it's crucial to keep a spare key around or at a minimum, know the amount the dealership for your car will charge for a replacement if you lose one.
The first thing you need to do when you lose a car key is to confirm that the lost key is not actually missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the jacket or pants you were wearing when you last used your car, looking inside the back seat of your vehicle as well as checking out places you wouldn't usually look like the inside of a shoe or a purse. Also, you should go through your owner's manual and find out if there are specific instructions for the kind of key you have like how to reset it in case it becomes dead.
If Learn Alot more tried everything but still can't find your car keys, then you should contact an expert to request a new key. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional keys, key fobs or switchblade) it could cost you between $50-$200 to purchase a new one. If you have a conventional key, a locksmith can typically cut a new key and change it's programming to match your car. This is a cheaper alternative than paying the dealer, who may charge up to $320 for a new key.
For a key fob or switchblade key, you'll have to call your dealership and have your car towing in to request a new key for your vehicle based on the VIN. They will then have to connect your new key with your vehicle electronically. This could be a costly and lengthy process. This is why it's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance, so you can get the assistance of an expert if you ever require it!
Make sure your vehicle's security is checked.
There is no doubt that modern cars are equipped with sophisticated security features to safeguard the contents of the car from theft. Although these features are typically beneficial, they can also make keys for cars more difficult to replace. It is still possible to obtain a replacement key for these cars, however the process is more complex and expensive. The cost will be based on the type of key your car is using, and you must be aware of prior to getting one made.
The easiest type of car key to make a spare for is the classic double-edged key that can be replaced at any locksmith, hardware store, or car dealership. The price is typically less than $10, and 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, like locking and unlocking, switching on and off, and other functions. These chips need to be programmed using a special machine that is only available at certain dealerships.
If you're looking to create a spare for these more advanced models of cars, a locksmith local to you is likely to be able. They will need the model and year of the vehicle and other details (like your registration number or your title) to confirm that they are the owner. Certain locksmiths are capable of making these keys onsite which will save you the hassle of having to visit a dealer.
The dealership is your best option if you don't own an extra. They'll be the most familiar with your car's model and the keys that are required to start it. This can be expensive, but they won't be available for assistance on the road.
To get a more affordable alternative, you can try a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices attach to your key ring and emit a signal that you can transmit to an app on your phone. The app can then show you where your keys are located, helping you locate them and prevent them from being lost in the first place!
Find a new key
Everyone loses their keys at some point. It can happen at the most inconvenient times, such as at a station or loading groceries into your trunk. It's not difficult to locate your keys however it is stressful if you don't have an extra set of keys at home or with a friend.
There are still ways to get a new key in case you've lost your original. The process is different based on your type of key and vehicle.
For example, if you have a standard key that fits into an ignition lock cylinder, it's fairly easy to get a locksmith to make an immediate replacement. This is less than $200 and can be done much quicker than purchasing one from a dealership.
If you have a key fob with an external transmitter,, you'll need go to the dealer. The dealer will be able locate your information, and then send you the correct key at a lower price than you would pay to 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 going to a dealership however it's not always feasible if you have a newer or more expensive car.
The best way to prevent losing your keys is having a spare. Place it in a safe location, like your home, so you don't have to be concerned about losing it when you leave your vehicle. It is also essential to check your purses and pockets regularly especially if you're wearing a coat or jacket with large pockets. Check places you might not typically reach, such as the inside of your shoes when you wear shoes. Be sure to check the trunk of your car if you have put the keys in there. It's easy to forget that you put them there, and they can easily get stolen if a driver takes off in your vehicle.