How to Find Your Lost Car Key replacement lost car keys
It's a fact that everyone loses car keys at some moment in time. It happens more than people think however it can be a big inconvenience.
Fortunately the replacement of lost car keys can be relatively simple depending on the kind of key you own. The most basic keys can usually be made at a local hardware store if you provide the VIN number or evidence of ownership.
Retract Your Steps
It's a hassle to lose your car keys, particularly if it occurs during a busy period of the day when you need to be somewhere. It's not the worst thing that can happen. There are several ways to locate your car key replacement.
The first thing you have to do is to retrace your steps. This means going back through the places you've visited and taking a look around, both at home and work. This will give you an idea of the last place you recalled seeing your keys and can help you find the location they might be.
If you're unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll need to contact a local locksmith or dealership for assistance. They'll be able to make 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 car. They'll also remove the old key to ensure that if anyone does manage to obtain it, they aren't able to drive your vehicle.
Before you speak to a locksmith or dealer, ensure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) handy. This is the number found on your driver's side dashboard or door panel and will inform them of the car you own so they can create an appropriate key for your vehicle.
Making Use of Your Memory
You may be tempted be scared of losing your car keys, but keep your cool. This will enable you to concentrate and search thoroughly. Close your eyes, relax and make use of your memory to remember the exact location you last were last able to see your car keys. If you're having trouble remembering where they were, go back your steps and search for any clues that could have surfaced.
If you're having no luck, contact a local locksmith or dealer for assistance. You'll need to provide them with details about your vehicle and its security system and they'll be able create a replacement key that will pair with your security chip. They'll also be able to guide you on ways to prevent future key loss.
Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys was not a huge problem. You could call your local locksmith and make a new key. As cars become more sophisticated, so have their keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and more expensive. It's essential to have an extra car key or to know the cost of replacing it in the event that you lose yours.
It is important to first see if the key is really missing. Check 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. You should also look through the owner's manual to find out if there are specific instructions for the type of key you i have lost my car keys, such as how to reset it in case it becomes dead.
If you've checked everything and still can't find your car keys, you should contact an expert to request an alternative key. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional keys, key fobs, or switchblade) it could cost you anything from $50 to $200 to get a new one. If you have a standard key, the locksmith will usually cut a new one and reprogram it to work with your vehicle. This is a cheaper alternative to paying the dealer, who may charge up to $320 for a new key.
For a key fob, or switchblade keys, you'll need to contact your dealer and have the vehicle towed to them to request a new key for your vehicle that is based on the VIN. Then, they'll need to connect the new key to your vehicle's electronic key which is a costly and time-consuming process. It's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to your policy so that you can receive assistance from a professional if needed!
Check the security system of your car.
There is no doubt that modern vehicles come with advanced security features that ensure that the car's contents are safe from theft. These features make it harder to replace lost key car keys. There is still a possibility of getting an alternative key for these cars, but the process is more complex and expensive. The cost of the new key will be contingent on the kind of vehicle you have. You should be aware of this prior to purchasing one.
The classic double-edged car keys can be converted into a spare by visiting any hardware store or dealer. The cost is typically less than $10, and is perfect as a backup key or to start your car in a dire situation. Transponder chips are employed in more recent models of car keys to control different aspects of the vehicle, like locking and unlocking, switching on and off, and other functions. These chips must be programmed by a special machine, which is generally only available at some dealerships.
If you're in need of an extra for these more advanced models of cars, a local locksmith should be able to help. They'll need the model and year of the car as well as other details (like your registration number or title) to prove that they are the owner of the vehicle. Some locksmiths will be able to make keys in-person, saving you the time of having to go to a dealer.
The dealership is the best option if you don't own an extra. They will be the most familiar with your specific car and the keys needed to get it started. This can be expensive but they won't be open for assistance on the road.
Try an Bluetooth key tracker as an alternative that is affordable. These devices attach to your key ring, and emit an audio signal that you can then connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then provide you with the location of your keys, helping you locate the keys and preventing them from getting lost car keys with no spare in the first instance!
Get a New Key
Every car owner loses their keys at one point or another. It could happen at the most inconvenient times, such as at a gas station, or loading groceries into your trunk. Although it's simple to locate your keys again, it can be a very stressful situation if you don't have a spare set in your home or with your friends.
There are still ways to obtain a replacement key in case you've lost your original. The process is different based on your type of key and the vehicle you are using.
If you have an ignition lock cylinder key, for example it's relatively simple to have a local locksmith make a new one right on the spot. This is less than $200 and can be done quicker than purchasing a new one from a dealership.
You will need to visit the dealer if you have remote keys that have an external transmitter. The dealer will be able locate your information, and will send you the right key for a lower cost than what you would pay locksmith.
If you have evidence of ownership such as the title or registration or registration, a locksmith might be able create a new key lost in car using your VIN. This is a much cheaper alternative than going to a dealer. However, it might not be feasible if your vehicle is newer or has a high price.
It is recommended to have a spare set keys. Keep it in a safe place, like your house, so that you don't have to worry about leaving it in the event that you leave your vehicle. Check your pockets and purses often, especially if you wear an outer garment or jacket that has large pockets. Examine places that you may not normally reach, like the inside of your shoe when you wear shoes. Also, make sure to double-check the trunk of your car if you put the keys in there. It's easy to forget that you put them in there and they're easily stolen if a driver leaves in your car.