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 frequently than people think, however it can be a major trouble.

It is possible to replace lost car keys dependent on the type of key you have. 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

It's frustrating to lose your car keys, particularly if it happens during a busy time of the day when you have to go somewhere. However, it's not the end of the world and there are a number of ways to assist you in finding your lost car key replacement.

The first thing you have to do is go back to where you started. You can do this by returning to the places you have been and looking around, at both the workplace and at home. This will help you locate the keys, noting when you last seen them.

If you're unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll want to call a local locksmith or dealership to get help. They'll be able to make a new car key for you, and will decode your existing locks so that only the key can start the car. They'll also erase the old key off the system of your vehicle, so should someone manage to get their hands on it the key, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.

Make sure you have your VIN on hand prior to contacting an agent or locksmith. This is the number located on your driver's side dashboard or door and will let them know which car you own so they can make an appropriate key for your vehicle.

Using Your Memory

If you've lost your car keys, you may feel panicky. Try to remain calm. This will allow you to think clearly and search more deeply. Close your eyes, relax and make use of your memory to recall the location where you last were last able to see your car keys. If you're having difficulty remembering where they were, go back 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 dealer for assistance. You'll have to give them specific details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll be able to create an original key that matches your existing security chip. They'll also be able to guide you on steps to prevent key loss.

Make sure you have a valid vehicle Identification (VIN).

It wasn't that long ago that losing keys to your car was not a major problem. Call your local locksmith and get a new car key. As cars become more high-tech as well, so have keys become more expensive and difficult to replace. It's important to have an extra car key or to know the cost of a replacement in the event that you lose yours.

You must first determine if the key is really missing. This can be done by checking the pockets of the pants or jacket that you wore last time you used your car, or looking inside the back seat of your car or even looking in areas you don't normally see like the inside of a shoe or purse. Check your owner's guide to determine if there are any specific instructions on how to reset the key in case it stops working.

If you've checked all the possibilities but are still unable to locate your car keys, it's time to get a professional for an alternative. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional or key fob, or switchblade) it can cost you anything from $50 to $200 to get new keys. If you have a conventional key, a locksmith can usually cut a new one and reprogram it to match your car. This is a much cheaper alternative to paying the dealer, who may charge up to $320 for a replacement key.

For a key fob, or switchblade key, you'll need to call your dealership and have the vehicle towed to them to order an additional key for your vehicle that is based on the VIN. They will then have to pair your new key with the vehicle electronically. This can be a costly and lengthy process. This is why it's a good idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance policy, so that you will have the assistance of a professional should you ever require it!

Check your vehicle's security system

It's not a secret that a lot of modern cars have fancy security features designed to keep the contents of the vehicle safe from theft. These security features can make it more difficult to replace keys for your car. It's not difficult to get an alternative key for these vehicles, though the process is more complex and expensive than it was in the past. The cost of a new key will depend on the kind of vehicle you own. It is essential to be aware of this prior to purchasing one.

The classic double-edged car key can be converted into a spare at any hardware store or at a dealership. It typically costs less than $10 and work just fine as a backup or to start the car in case of emergency. Transponder chips are used in the most recent models of keys to control various aspects of the vehicle, including locking and unlocking, turning off and on, as well as other functions. The chips have to be programmed with a specific machine that is only available at certain dealerships.

If you're in need of a spare for these more advanced models of automobiles, a locksmith in your area should be able to help. They will need to know the model and year of your vehicle as well as other details to prove that you are the owner (like your car registration number or title). Some locksmiths can make these keys on-site, saving you time from having to visit an agent.

The dealership is your best option if you don't have spare. They are the best person to talk to because they are familiar with the car and the keys you need to start it. This can be expensive, but they won't be able to provide assistance at the roadside.

To get a more affordable alternative, you can try a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices are attached to your key ring and emit a signal you can transmit to an app on your smartphone. The app will show you the whereabouts of your keys, helping you to find them and prevent them from being lost in the first instance!

Get a New Key

Everyone loses their keys at some point. It can happen in the most awkward of places like at a petrol station or while taking groceries out of your trunk. Even though it is easy to locate your keys again, it can be a very stressful situation in the event that you don't have a spare set at home or with friends.

There are ways to get a replacement key if you've lost the car key the original. The procedure will depend on the type of key you own and the vehicle you are using.

For instance, if have a traditional key that fits into an ignition lock cylinder it's easy to have a locksmith make an immediate replacement. This option costs less than $200, and is usually quicker than buying one from the dealership.

You'll need to go to the dealer if you own a remote key with an external transmitter. The dealer will be able locate your information, and will send you the right key at a lower price than you'd pay locksmith.

If you have evidence of ownership such as an official title or registration, a locksmith may be able to make an entirely new key with your VIN. This is a much less expensive alternative to going to the dealership, but it's not always possible when you own a newer or more expensive vehicle.

It is best to have a spare set keys. Keep it in a secure location, such as your home, so that you don't have to worry about putting it in a place when you leave your vehicle. Make sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, especially if have coats or jackets with large pockets. Check places you might not normally reach, like the inside of your shoe if you wear runners. Check your trunk to see if you have left the keys there. It's easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They could be stolen when someone steals your vehicle.