How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
It's a fact that we all lose car keys at some point. It happens more often than people think, however, and it can be a major hassle.
Fortunately, replacing lost car keys can be relatively simple depending on the type of key you own. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership then you can get the most basic keys made at your local hardware store.
Retract your Steps
It's frustrating to lose your car keys, especially if it happens during a hectic time of the day when you have to go somewhere. It's not the end of the world, and there are several ways you can assist you in finding the replacement car key you lost.
The first thing you need to do is to retrace your steps. This means going back to the places you've been and looking around, both at home and work. This will help you locate the keys by noting when you last saw them.
If you are still unable to locate your car keys, you can call a locksmith or dealership in your area for help. They will be able create a new car keys for you, and will decode the locks you have in place so that only the key will be able to start the car. They'll also erase the old key from your vehicle's system, so even if someone does gain access to it the key, they won't be able to drive your car.
Before you speak to a locksmith or dealer ensure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) handy. This number is located on the driver's door panel or on the dashboard. It will inform them of the vehicle you drive and they will be able to create keys that are compatible with.
Memory Exercises
You might be tempted to be scared of losing your car keys However, try to remain calm. This will help you think clearly and look more deeply. Relax your eyes and close them. Then utilize your memory to recall the last time you viewed your keys. If you're having difficulty remembering where they were, go back your steps again and look for any clues that may have been discovered.
If you're still having trouble, contact an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area to get help. You'll be required to provide details about your vehicle and the security system that it uses and they'll be able create a new key that will pair with your existing security chip. They can also give you tips on how to avoid future key losses.
Check Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).
Not too long ago the idea of losing or misplacing your car keys wasn't a big issue. You could just call your local locksmith to make a new key. But as cars have become more high-tech as well, so have keys become more difficult and expensive to replace. It's essential to have a spare car key or to be aware of the cost of a replacement in the event that you lose yours.
The first thing to do when you lose a car key is to make sure that the lost key is not actually missing. Examine the pockets of your jacket or pants along with the backseat and other places that you may not normally look for, like the inside of your shoe or purse. You should also check your owner's manual to see if there are any specific instructions for the type of key you have for example, how to reset it in the event that it goes dead.
If you've checked everything and still can't find the car keys, then it's time to contact a professional to get a new key. The cost of a new one will range from $50 to $200 based on the type you own. If you own a traditional key, you could have the locksmith simply cut a new one and reprogram it for your vehicle. This is a cheaper option than the dealer's rates that can cost as much as $320 to replace keys that have been lost.
You'll need to call your dealer and have your vehicle towing to them so they can order a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. Then, they'll have to connect the new key to your vehicle's computer which can be an expensive and time-consuming procedure. This is why it's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance, so you will have the assistance of a professional if you ever require it!
Make sure your vehicle's security is checked.
It's no secret that many modern vehicles are fitted with sophisticated security features to protect the vehicle's content from thieves. Although these features are typically beneficial however, they can make the car keys more difficult to replace. There is still a possibility of getting a replacement key for these cars, but the process is more complicated and expensive. The exact cost will vary depending on the type of key your car is using, and you must be aware of before getting one made.
The most straightforward type of car key to create a spare key for is the classic double-edged car key that can be replaced at any hardware store, locksmith or car dealership. It is usually less than $10 and will serve as a backup or to start the car in the event of an emergency. Transponder chips are employed in the most recent models of car keys to control different aspects of the vehicle, like locking and unlocking, turning off and on, as well as other functions. The chips have to be programmed with a specific machine that is available only at certain dealerships.
When you need to make a spare for these more advanced models of cars, a locksmith local to you will be able to assist. They will need to know the model and year of your car and other information to verify that you're the owner (like your car registration number or title). Some locksmiths are able to make these keys onsite and save you the hassle of going to dealers.
If you don't have a spare, the next best option is the dealership. They are the best person to talk to because they are familiar with the car and the keys you'll need to get started with it. It can be expensive, and they will not be available for roadside assistance.
For a much more affordable alternative, you can try a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices connect to your key ring, and emit a signal you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then inform you where your keys are, helping you locate them and prevent them from being lost in the first place!
Find a new key
Everybody loses their keys at some moment in time. It can happen in the most unavoidable of situations such as at a gasstation or when taking groceries out of your trunk. Even though it is easy to find your keys once again, this can be a very stressful situation in the event that you don't have a spare set at home or with your family.
There are still ways to get a new key in case you've lost your original. The procedure varies based on the kind of key and your vehicle.
For instance, if you have a key that fits 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 with an external transmitter, however, you'll need go to the dealer. The dealer will locate your information, and send you the correct key at a cheaper price than you'd pay a locksmith.
A locksmith might also be able to make an alternative key using the VIN number of your car, as long as you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title. This is a much less expensive alternative to visiting a dealership, but it's not always possible if you have a newer or more expensive car.
It is best to keep a spare set of keys. Keep key car lost in a safe location, like your home in order to not need to think about leaving it somewhere when you leave your vehicle. Check your pockets and purses frequently, especially if wear a coat or jacket with large pockets. Be sure to check places you wouldn't normally reach, like the inside of your shoe when you wear shoes. Double-check your trunk if you have left keys in there. It's easy to forget you left them there and they're easily taken away if someone else leaves in your car.