How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
Everyone loses their car keys at one point or another. It happens more often than people think, however it can be a big hassle.
Fortunately the replacement of lost car keys 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 the local hardware store.
Retract your steps
Losing your car keys can be stressful, especially if it happens at a busy time of day and you have to go somewhere. It's not the most unpleasant thing that could happen to you. There are many ways to find your car key replacement.
The first thing you need to do is to retrace your steps. This means going back through the places you've been and looking around at home as well as at work. This will help you find the keys by letting you know when you last was able to see them.
If you still can't locate your car keys, you can call a locksmith or dealership in your area for help. They'll be able to make the new key for you and also decode the existing locks on your vehicle so that only the new key can start it. They'll also remove the old key to ensure that if someone does manage to get it, they aren't able to drive your vehicle.
Make sure you have your VIN on hand before contacting a dealer or locksmith. It's found on your driver's side dashboard or door panel and will inform them of the car you own so they can design an appropriate key for your vehicle.
Memory Exercises
If you lose your car keys, you might feel panicky. But try to remain calm. This will allow you to think clearly and look more thoroughly. Close your eyes and relax. Then you can use your memory to remember the last time you viewed your keys. If you're struggling to remember where they were, retrace your steps again and look for any clues that could have surfaced.
If you are experiencing issues, call an auto locksmith or a dealership near you for assistance. You'll have to provide them with information about your vehicle and the security system it has and they'll be able create a new key that can be paired with your existing security chip. They'll also be able to guide you on preventive measures to avoid future key loss.
Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing or losing your car keys was not a major issue. You could just contact your local locksmith and have a new key made. As cars evolved and sophisticated, so have keys. This makes them harder to replace and also more expensive. This is why it's crucial to keep a spare key on hand or at the very least be aware of the price your car dealer will charge you to replace it if you lose one.
The first thing to do when you lose a car key is to ensure that the lost key is actually missing. Examine the pockets of your jacket or pants, the backseat, and other places you might not normally look for, like the inside of a purse or shoe. Go through the owner's manual to determine if it contains any specific instructions on how to reset the key if it becomes dead.
If you've tried everything and still can't locate your car keys, it is time to contact a professional for the replacement. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional, key fob or switchblade), it will cost you anything from $50-$200 to purchase new keys. If you have an old-fashioned key, you can usually get the locksmith to make a new key and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is a less expensive option than the dealer's price that could be as high as $320 to replace a lost key.
You'll have to contact your dealer and get your vehicle towing to them so they can obtain a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. Then, they'll need to connect your new key with the vehicle electronically. This could be a costly and lengthy procedure. This is why it's a good idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you can get the assistance of a professional should you ever need it!
Check the security system of your car.
It's no secret that many modern vehicles come with advanced security features that ensure that the car's contents are safe from thieves. While these security features are generally beneficial however, they can make the car keys more difficult to replace. It is still possible to obtain an alternative key for these cars, but the process is more difficult and expensive. The cost of a new key will depend on the kind of vehicle you own. It is important 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 dealership. The price is typically less than $10 and will work perfectly as a backup key or to start your car in an emergency situation. More recent models of cars, however incorporate transponder chips into the keys to control various aspects of the car, from locking and unlocking to switching on and turning off. These chips need to be programmed with a specific machine that is only available in some dealerships.
A local locksmith can help you if you need an extra key for these vehicles. They will need the model and year of the vehicle as well as other details (like your registration number or title) to prove that they are the owner of the vehicle. Certain locksmiths can create these keys on the spot which will save you time from having to visit dealers.
If you don't have a spare car, the alternative is to go to the dealership. They are the best place to speak to since they know your car and what keys you require to start it. It could be costly and they won't be available for roadside assistance.
For a much more affordable alternative, consider a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices are attached to your key ring, and emit a signal you can connect with an app on your smartphone. The app will then display the location of your keys aiding you in finding them and prevent them from being lost in the first place!
Find a new key
Everybody loses their keys at some point. It can happen at the most inconvenient times, such as at a gas station or loading groceries into your trunk. It's not difficult to find your keys again, but it can be stressful if don't have a spare set of keys at home or with a buddy.
There are still ways to get a replacement key in case you've lost your original. The procedure varies based on the type of key and the vehicle you are using.
For instance, if you have a key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder, it's relatively simple to have a locksmith make a replacement on the spot. This option is less than $200 and can be completed much faster than buying one from a dealer.
key lost 'll need to go to the dealer if you have a remote key with an external transmitter. The dealership will be able to find your information and send you the correct key at a lower cost than when you visit a locksmith.
If you have proof of ownership, such as an official title or registration or a certificate of ownership, a locksmith might be able to create an entirely new key with your VIN. This is a cheaper alternative to visiting the dealership however, it's not always possible when you own a newer or more expensive car.
The best way to prevent losing your keys is by having an extra. Keep it in a safe location, like your home, so you do not have to worry about losing it if you leave your vehicle. Check your pockets and purses often, especially if you have a coat or jacket with large pockets. Be sure to check places you wouldn't typically reach, such as the inside of your shoes in the event that you wear runners. Also, make sure to double-check the trunk of your car if you put keys there. It's easy to forget you put them in there and they can easily get stolen if a driver drives off in your car.