How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
It's a fact of life that we all lose car keys at some moment in time. It happens more than people think and can be a big inconvenience.
Fortunately helpful site of lost car keys is relatively easy, depending on what type of key you have. The most basic keys can usually be made at an area hardware store, provided you have the VIN number or proof of ownership.
Retract your steps
It's frustrating to lose your car keys, especially if it happens during a hectic period of time when you need to be somewhere. It's not the most frustrating thing in the world. There are a variety of ways to locate your car key replacement.
The first thing you need to do is go back to where you started. This means going back to the places you've been and taking a look around at home and work. This will give you an idea of the last place you recalled seeing your keys, and may guide you to the location they might be.
If you can't find your car keys after retracing your steps you'll need to contact an area locksmith or dealership to get help. They will be able create an entirely new car key for you, and decode the locks you have in place so that only the key is able to start the vehicle. They'll also erase the old key, so that if anyone manages to obtain it, they won't be able to drive your car.
Before you call a locksmith or dealer make sure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) handy. This number is found on the door of the driver or dashboard. It will let them know what vehicle you drive so they can create a key that matches.
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 search more thoroughly. Relax your eyes and close them. Then you can use your memory to recall the last place you saw your keys. If you're having trouble remembering where they were, go back your steps once more and look for any clues that could have been discovered.
If you are still having trouble, contact a locksmith or dealership in your area to get help. You'll need to provide them with details about your vehicle and its security system, and they'll be able make a replacement key that is compatible with your security chip. They'll also provide tips on how to avoid the loss of your keys in the future.
Check Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing or losing your car keys was not a big issue. Contact your local locksmith to find a replacement car key. As cars become more sophisticated, so have their keys. This makes them harder to replace and also more expensive. This is why it's essential to always have an extra key in your car, or at least know how much your car dealership will charge you to replace it if you lose one.
You must first see if the key is really missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the clothing that you wore last time you used your car, looking in the backseat of your vehicle, and even checking places that you would not normally look like the inside of a shoe or a purse. Also, you should go through your owner's manual and determine if there are specific instructions for the kind of key you own for example, how to reset it if it dies.
If you've tried everything but you are still unable to locate your car keys, then it's time to contact an expert to obtain new keys. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional or key fob or switchblade) it could cost you anything from $50 to $200 to buy a new one. If you have a conventional key, the locksmith can usually cut a new one and modify it to match your car. This is a less expensive option than the dealer's prices which can be 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 towed in for them to request 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 could be a costly and lengthy process. This is why it's a good idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance, so you can get the assistance of an expert if you ever need to!
Check your vehicle's security system
It's not a secret that many modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features designed to keep the contents of the vehicle safe from theft. While these security features are generally beneficial however, they can make keys for the car more difficult to replace. Fortunately, it's not impossible to find a new key for these vehicles although the process is more involved and costly than it was in the past. The cost will be based on the type of key your car has, and this is something you need to be aware of before getting one made.
The classic double-edged car key can be made into a spare at any hardware store or at a dealership. The cost is typically less than $10 and will work perfectly as a backup key or to start your car in an urgent situation. Transponder chips are used in the most recent models of car keys to control different aspects of the vehicle, including locking and unlocking, switching off and on, as well as other functions. These chips need to be programmed using a specific machine, which is generally only available at certain dealerships.
When you need to make an additional spare for these sophisticated automobiles, a locksmith in your area will be able to assist. They will need to know the model and year of your vehicle, as well as some other details to confirm that you're the owner (like the registration number on your car or title). Certain locksmiths are able to make keys on the spot which will save you the hassle of having to visit an agent.
The dealership is your best option if you don't own an extra. They are the best person to ask because they know the car and the keys you require to start it. It could be costly and they may not be available for roadside assistance.
Try an Bluetooth key tracker for an alternative that is affordable. 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 preventing them from being lost in the first instance!
Get a New Key
Every car owner loses their keys at one point or another. It can happen in the most inconvenient of times such as at a petrol station or while loading groceries into your trunk. It's not difficult to find your keys again however it can be stressful if do not have an extra set of keys at home or with a friend.
There are still options to obtain a new key in the event that you've lost the original. The process is different based on your type of key and vehicle.
For instance, if you have a key that is inserted into an ignition lock cylinder it's easy to have a locksmith make an immediate replacement. This will cost less than $200, and is typically quicker than purchasing one from a dealership.
You'll need to visit the dealer if you have an electronic remote with an external transmitter. The dealership will be able to locate your information and send you the correct key for a much lower price than for a locksmith.
A locksmith might also be able to create keys for replacement by using the VIN of your vehicle, so you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title. This is a cheaper alternative to visiting an auto dealer, but it's not always possible when you own a brand new or more expensive vehicle.
The best way to avoid losing your keys is having a spare. Keep it in a secure location, such as your home and you won't need to think about leaving it in the event that you leave your vehicle. It's also important to inspect the pockets and purses frequently particularly if you are wearing a jacket or coat with large pockets. Check places you might not normally reach, like the inside of your shoe in the event that you wear runners. Check your trunk to see if you have put your keys in there. It's easy to forget you put them there, and they're easily taken away if someone else drives off in your car.