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 often than people think and can be a big inconvenience.

It is possible to replace lost car keys depending on the type of key that you own. The most basic keys can usually be made at a local hardware store if you have the VIN number or proof of ownership.

Retract your Steps

It's a hassle to lose your car keys, particularly when it happens during a busy period of time when you're required to be somewhere. Fortunately, it's not the end of the world, and there are several ways to assist you in finding the replacement car key you lost.

You must first retrace your steps. This means going back through the places you've visited and looking around at home and work. This will help you find the keys, telling you the last time you was able to see them.

If you can't find your car key lost no spare keys after retracing your steps, you'll want to call a local locksmith or dealership for assistance. They will be able create an entirely new car key for you, and decode your existing locks so that only the key is able to start the car. They'll also remove the old key to ensure that if someone does manage to obtain it, they aren't able to use your vehicle.

Be sure to have your VIN on hand before you contact a dealer or locksmith. This is the number found on your driver's side dashboard or door and will inform them of the car you own so they can design keys that match.

Memory Exercises

If you lose your car keys, you may be anxious. Try to keep your cool. This will help you think clearly and search more thoroughly. Relax your eyes and close them. Then you can use your memory to remember the last time you saw your keys. If you're unable to recall the location of your keys, retrace the steps and look for clues.

If you're having no luck, contact a local locksmith or dealership to get help. You'll need to provide them with details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll be able to create keys that match your existing security chip. They'll also advise you on steps to prevent key loss.

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

Not too long ago losing or misplacing car keys wasn't a big problem. Call your local locksmith to obtain a new car key. As cars become more sophisticated and sophisticated, so have keys. This makes them more difficult to replace lost car key and also more expensive. It's essential to have an extra car key, or to know the cost of replacing it in the event you lose yours.

It is important to first see if the key is really missing. Examine the pockets of your jacket or pants along with the backseat and other places you may not normally check 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 if it is dead.

If you've checked everything and still haven't found your car keys, then it's time to call a professional to get an alternative key. The cost of a new key will vary from $50 to over $200 depending on the type you have. If you have a conventional key, the locksmith will usually cut a new one and change it's programming to work with your vehicle. This is less expensive than the dealer's price which can cost as much as $320 to replace the lost key.

You'll have to contact your dealer and get your vehicle towed to them so they can order a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. Then, they'll need to pair your new key with your vehicle electronically. This can be a costly and lengthy process. It's a great idea to include Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy to allow you to get expert help if needed!

Check the security system of your car.

There is no doubt that modern cars are equipped with sophisticated security features to protect the vehicle's content from theft. While these security features are generally a good thing but they can also make keys for the car more difficult to replace. It is still possible to obtain an alternative key for these cars, but the process is more complicated and costly. The cost will be depending on the kind of key your vehicle has, and this is something you need to be aware of prior to getting one made.

The most straightforward type of car key you can make a spare for is the classic double-edged car key that can be replaced at any hardware store, locksmith or car dealership. The cost is typically less than $10, and it can be used as a backup key to start your car in an urgent situation. Transponder chips are used in the latest models of keys to control various aspects of the vehicle, like locking and unlocking, turning on and off, and other functions. These chips must be programmed by a special machine, which is generally only available through certain dealerships.

A locksmith in your area can assist you if you need a spare key for these vehicles. They'll need the model and year of the car as well as other details (like your registration number or title) to verify that they are the owner. Some locksmiths are able to make keys in-person which will save you the hassle of having to visit a dealer.

The dealership is the best option if you don't own a spare. They are the most knowledgeable about your specific car and the keys needed to get it started. This can be costly, however, and they won't be able to provide assistance at the roadside.

To get a more affordable alternative, consider a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices are attached to your key ring, and emit signals that you can connect with an app on your smartphone. The app will show you the whereabouts of your keys, helping you locate them and prevent them from being lost in the first place!

Find a New Key

Everybody loses their keys at some point. It happens at the most awkward times, like at a gas station, or loading groceries into your trunk. Even though it is easy to find your keys once again, it can be a very stressful scenario if you don't have a spare set in your home or with your family.

There are still ways to get a new key if you've lost your original. The process depends on the type of key you own and the vehicle you are using.

If you have an ignition lock cylinder key, for example, it is relatively easy to have a local locksmith make a new one right on the spot. This will cost less than $200 and is often quicker than getting one from a dealership.

If you have a key fob with an external transmitter, however you'll need to go to the dealer. The dealership will be able to find your details and provide you with the correct key at a cheaper price than for a locksmith.

A locksmith might also be able to create keys for replacement by using your car's VIN, as long as you have evidence of ownership like your registration or title. This is a much less expensive alternative to going to an auto dealer however it's not always feasible if you have a newer or more expensive car.

It is recommended to have a spare set of keys. Place it in a secure location, such as your home, so that you don't have to worry about putting it in the event that you leave your vehicle. Make sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, particularly if you wear coats or jackets with large pockets. Be sure to check places you wouldn't typically reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you wear runners. Also, make sure to check the trunk of your car if you put keys there. It's easy to forget that you put them there, and they're easily taken away if someone else takes off in your vehicle.