How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
Everyone loses their car keys at one time or some other time. It happens more often than people think however it can be a major inconvenience.
Fortunately replacing car keys lost can be relatively simple depending on the type of key you have. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership you can have the most basic keys at your local hardware store.
Retract Your Steps
Losing your car keys is stressful, especially if it happens at a busy time of the day when you have to go somewhere. However, it's not the end of the world, and there are several ways to help you locate the replacement car key you lost.
The first thing you have to do is to retrace your steps. This can be done by returning to the places you have been and taking a look around, both at home and at work. This will help you locate the keys, noting when you last saw them.
If you're still having trouble finding your car keys, you can call a locksmith or dealership nearby for assistance. They'll be able to make an entirely new key for you, and decode the locks on your vehicle so that only the new key can start it. They will also delete the old key to ensure that if someone does manage to get it, they won't be able to use your vehicle.
Before Read Much more call a locksmith or dealer ensure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) in your pocket. This number is located 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 are compatible with.
Utilizing Your Memory
You may be tempted be scared of losing your car keys however, be calm. This will allow you to concentrate and thoroughly. Relax your eyes, close your eyes and make use of your memory to recall where you found your car keys the last time. If you're unable to recall where you put your keys you were, go back to the 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 be required to provide details about your vehicle and its security system and they'll be able to create a replacement key that can be paired with your security chip. They'll also be able guide you on steps to prevent key loss.
Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car were not a major issue. Call your local locksmith and obtain a new car key. As cars become more technological, so too have their keys, making them more difficult and expensive to replace. That's why it's important to keep an extra key in your car, or at least know the amount the dealership for your car will charge for a replacement if you lose one.
You should first check to determine if the key is really missing. This can be done by checking the pockets of the jacket or pants you were wearing when you last used your car, or looking at the back of your vehicle or even looking in areas you don't normally see like the inside of a shoe or a purse. Also, you should look through the owner's manual to find out if there are specific instructions for the type of key you own like how to reset it in case it goes dead.
If you've checked everything and you are still unable to locate the car keys, then it's time to call an expert to obtain new keys. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional keys, key fobs, or switchblade), it will cost you between $50-$200 to purchase an alternative one. If listen to this podcast own a traditional key, the locksmith can usually cut a new one and change it's programming to work with your vehicle. This is a cheaper option than the dealer's price which can cost as much as $320 to replace keys that have been lost.
For a key fob or switchblade keys, you'll need to contact your dealer and have the car towed in for them to request the new key for your vehicle that is based on the VIN. Then, they'll need to connect your new key to the vehicle electronically. This could be a costly and time-consuming process. This is why it's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you can have the help of a professional if you ever need it!
Check Your Vehicle's Security System
It's no secret that many modern cars are equipped with advanced security features that safeguard the contents of the car from theft. Although these features are typically an excellent thing, they can also make the car keys more difficult to replace. However, it's not impossible to get an alternative key for these vehicles however, the process is more complicated and costly than in the past. The cost of a new key will depend on the kind of vehicle you own. You should know this before ordering one.
The classic car key with a double edge can be turned into a spare at any hardware store or dealership. It typically costs less than $10 and serve as a backup or to start the car in an emergency. The latest models of cars, however, incorporate transponder chips into the keys to control various aspects of the vehicle including locking and unlocking to turning on and off. The chips have to be programmed with a special machine, which is generally only available at some dealerships.
When you need to make an additional spare for these advanced types of cars, a local locksmith will be able to assist. They'll need the year and model of your car as well as other information to verify that you are the owner (like the registration number on your car or title). Certain locksmiths are able to make keys on the spot, saving you the time of having to visit an agent.
If you do not have a spare, the next best option is the dealership. They'll be the most familiar with your car's model and the keys required to get it running. This can be costly however, and they won't be able to provide assistance at the roadside.
If you want a less expensive alternative, try using a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices are attached to your key ring, emitting a signal you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then provide you with the whereabouts of your keys, aiding you in finding the keys and preventing them from being lost in the first instance!
Find a New Key
Everyone loses their keys at some time or another. It can happen in the most inconvenient of times such as at a gasstation or when loading groceries into your car. Although it's easy to find your keys again, it could be a stressful experience when you don't have an extra set at home or with friends.
There are still ways to obtain a replacement key in case you've lost your original. The process is different based on the kind of key and your vehicle.
For instance, if have a standard key that is inserted into an ignition lock cylinder, it's easy to have a locksmith make an immediate replacement. This is less than $200, and is usually quicker than buying one from a dealership.
If you have a key fob that has an external transmitter, however, you'll need go to the dealer. The dealership will be able locate your information and issue you the correct key at a cheaper price than if you went to an locksmith.
If you have proof of ownership, like an official title or registration or registration, a locksmith might be able to create keys using your VIN. This is a less expensive alternative to visiting a dealership however, it's not always possible when you have a newer or more expensive vehicle.
The best way to avoid losing your keys is by having an extra. Keep it in a safe location, such as your home, so that you do not have to worry about losing it if you leave your vehicle. Make sure to check your purses and pockets often, especially if you have a coat or jacket with large pockets. Be sure to check the places you'd never reach, like the inside of your shoes if you have on runners. Finally, be sure to double-check the trunk of your car if you have put keys there. It's easy to forget you put them in there and they could easily be stolen if a driver leaves in your car.