How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
It's a fact of life that every car owner loses their keys at some moment in time. It happens more frequently than people think, but it can be a big hassle.
It is possible to replace lost car key s dependent on the type of key that you own. The most basic keys can be made at the local hardware store if you provide the VIN number or proof of ownership.
Retract your steps
It's frustrating to lose your car keys, especially if it happens during a busy period of time when you need to be somewhere. It's not the most unpleasant thing that can happen. There are many ways to locate your car key replacement.
The first thing to do is to retrace your steps. This involves going back through the places you've visited and looking around at home and work. This will help you locate the keys by noting the last time you seen them.
If you're unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll need to contact a local locksmith or dealership to get help. They'll be able to make a new car keys for you, and decode your existing locks so that only the key can start the car. They'll also erase the old key out of the system of your vehicle, so even if someone does gain access to it the key, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.
Before you contact a locksmith or dealer ensure you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) in your pocket. It's found on your driver's side door panel or dashboard and will inform them of the car you own so they can design an appropriate key for your vehicle.
Memory Exercises
You may be tempted panic at the thought of losing your car keys however, try to remain calm. This will enable you to think clearly and search thoroughly. Close your eyes, relax and make use of your memory to recall where you saw your car keys last. If you're having trouble remembering where they were, retrace your steps and search for any clues that might have surfaced.
If you're having no luck, contact a local locksmith or dealer for assistance. You'll have to provide them with details about your vehicle and the security system it has and they'll be able create a replacement key that can be paired with your existing security chip. They'll also provide you with preventive measures to avoid future key loss.
Verify Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
It wasn't long ago that misplacing or losing your car keys was not a huge problem. Contact your local locksmith to get a new car key. As cars evolved and sophisticated, so have keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and costlier. This is why it's crucial to always keep a spare key on hand or at the very least know how much your car dealership will charge to replace it if you lose one.
The first thing you need to do when you lose a car key is to make sure that the lost key is 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 at the back of your car or even looking in places you wouldn't usually look like the inside of a shoe or a purse. You should also check your owner's manual to see if there are any specific instructions for the type of key you have like how to reset it if it dies.
If you've tried everything but still can't find your car keys, it's time to contact a professional to get new keys. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional or key fob or switchblade), it will cost you anything from $50-$200 to purchase new keys. If you have a traditional key, you can usually have the locksmith simply make a new key and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is less expensive than the dealer's price, which can cost as much as $320 to replace the lost key.
For a key fob, or switchblade key, you'll have to call your dealership and have your car towing in to order a new key for your vehicle based on the VIN. Then, they'll have to connect the new key with your vehicle's computer this is a costly and time-consuming process. It's a great idea to include Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to your policy to ensure that you receive expert assistance if you need it!
Check Your Vehicle's Security System
It's not a secret that a lot of modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features designed to keep the contents of the vehicle safe from theft. These security features can make it difficult to replace car keys. Fortunately, it's not impossible to find an alternative key for these vehicles, though the process is more involved and expensive than in the past. The cost of the new key will be contingent on the type of vehicle you own. It is important to be aware of this prior ordering one.
The most straightforward kind of car key to make a spare key for is the classic double-edged car key which can be re-used at any hardware store, locksmith or car dealership. It will typically cost less than $10 and serve as a backup or to start the car in case of emergency. The latest models of cars, however use transponder chips in the keys to control different aspects of the car, from locking and unlocking to switching on and turning off. These chips must be programmed using a special device that is only available at certain dealerships.
A local locksmith can help you with a spare key for these cars. They'll need the model and year of your vehicle, as well as some other details to confirm that you're the owner (like the registration number of your car or title). Certain locksmiths can create these keys on the spot and save you the hassle of needing to visit a dealer.
The dealership is the best option if there isn't spare. They will be the most knowledgeable about your car's model and the keys required to get it running. It can be expensive and they may not be able to provide roadside assistance.
If you want a less expensive alternative, consider a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices are attached to your key ring, emitting signals that you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then display the whereabouts of your keys, helping you locate the keys and preventing them from being lost in the first place!
Get a new key
Everybody loses their keys at some point. It can happen at the most inconvenient of times, such as at a gas station or while taking groceries out of your trunk. It is not difficult to find your keys, but it can be stressful if you do not have a spare set of keys at home or with a friend.
There are ways to obtain a replacement key if you've lost your original. The procedure varies based on your kind of key and your vehicle.
If you have an ignition lock key for a cylinder, for instance, it is relatively easy to have a local locksmith make a replacement right on the spot. This will cost less than $200 and can be completed much faster than buying one from a dealership.
You'll need to go to the dealer if you own a remote key with an external transmitter. The dealership will be able to find your information and issue you the right key for a much lower price than what you would pay for a locksmith.
If you have evidence of ownership, like the title or registration, a locksmith may be able to create keys using your VIN. This is a cheaper alternative to visiting a dealership, but it's not always possible when you have a newer or more expensive vehicle.
It is advisable to have a spare set keys. Keep it in a safe location, such as your home, so you do not have to worry about losing it if you leave your vehicle. It's also important to check the pockets and purses frequently particularly if you are wearing a coat or jacket with large pockets. Don't forget to check places you'd never reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you are on runners. Be sure to check the trunk of your car if you put the keys down there. It's easy to forget you left them there and they're easily stolen if someone else takes off in your vehicle.