How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

It's a fact that we all lose car keys at some moment in time. It happens more than people think however it can be a big hassle.

Fortunately, replacing lost car key lost key fob car keys is relatively easy, depending on what type of key you own. The most basic keys can be made at the local hardware store if you can provide the VIN number or evidence of ownership.

Retract Your Steps

It's frustrating to lose your car keys, particularly if it happens during a hectic period of the day when you need to be somewhere. It's not the end of the world and there are a number of ways to help you locate your lost car key replacement.

It is recommended to retrace your steps. You can do this by returning to the places you have been and looking around, at both the workplace and at home. This will give you a good idea of where you remember seeing your keys, and may guide you to the location they might be.

If you're still having trouble finding your car keys, contact a locksmith or dealership in your area for assistance. They'll be able to create an entirely new car key for you, and also decode your existing locks so that only the key is able to start the car. They'll also remove the old key so that if anyone manages to get it, they aren't able to drive your car.

Be sure to have your VIN in hand before you contact the locksmith or dealer. This is the number found on your driver's side dashboard or door panel, and it will allow them to know what vehicle you own so that they can create a new key to match.

Memory Exercises

If you lose your car keys, you could feel panicky. Try to remain calm. This will allow you to think clearly and search thoroughly. Close your eyes and relax. Then, use your memory to recall the last time you viewed your keys. If you're unable to recall where your keys were you were, go back to the steps and look for clues.

If you are still having issues, contact a locksmith or dealership in your area for help. They'll require details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll be able to create keys that match your existing security chip. They'll also guide you on ways to prevent future key loss.

Make sure you have a valid vehicle Identification (VIN).

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big problem. You could simply call your local locksmith to get a new key made. But as cars have become more technological, so too have their keys become more difficult and expensive to replace. That's why it's important to keep an extra key in your car or at the very least know the amount your car dealer will charge you for a replacement if you lose one.

It is important to first find out if the key really missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the clothing you were wearing when you last used your car, looking in the backseat of your car as well as checking out places you wouldn't usually look like the inside of a shoe or a purse. Go through the owner's manual to see if it has any special instructions on how to reset the key if it becomes dead.

If you've checked everything but still cannot find your car keys, it is time to call a professional for the replacement. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional, key fob, or switchblade) it can cost you anything from $50 to $200 to get new keys. If you have an old-fashioned key, you could get the locksmith to make a new key and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is a less expensive alternative to paying the dealer, who may charge up to $320 for a new key.

You'll have to contact your dealer and have your car towed by them to allow them to order a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. They will then have to connect your new key with your vehicle electronically. This can be a costly and lengthy process. It's a great idea add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy to ensure that you receive expert assistance if you need it!

Check the security system of your car.

It's no secret that many modern cars come with fancy security features designed to keep the contents of the vehicle safe from theft. These security features make it harder to replace lost key for car car keys. Fortunately, it's not impossible to obtain a new key for these vehicles although the process is more involved and costly than it was 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 to purchasing one.

The most straightforward type of car key you can make a spare key for is the traditional double-edged key that can be purchased at any hardware store, locksmith or car dealership. It is usually less than $10 and work just fine as a backup or to start the car key lost in the event of an emergency. The latest models of automobiles, however, utilize transponder chips inside the keys to control various aspects of the car including locking and unlocking to turning on and off. The chips have to be programmed with a special machine, which is usually only available at certain dealerships.

If you're looking to create an additional spare for these advanced models of cars, a locksmith local to you should be able to help. They will need the model and year of the vehicle, along with some other details (like your registration number or your title) to confirm that they are the owner of the vehicle. Certain locksmiths are capable of making keys on the spot and save you the hassle of going to dealers.

If you don't have a spare, the alternative is to go to the dealership. They are the most knowledgeable about your specific car and the keys that are required to get it running. It could be costly, and they will not be able to assist you on the road.

For a much more affordable alternative, consider a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices connect to your key ring, and emit signals that you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will show you where your keys are located, helping you find them and preventing them from getting lost in the first place!

Find a new key

Everyone loses their car keys at some point or another. It happens at the most awkward times, like at a gas station or loading groceries into your trunk. It is not difficult to find your keys again however it is stressful if you do not have a spare set of keys at home or with a buddy.

There are still ways to get a new key if you've lost auto key replacement the original. The process varies depending on your type of key and vehicle.

If you have an ignition lock key that is a cylinder, like it's fairly easy to have a local locksmith create a new one right on the spot. This is less than $200 and can be done much faster than buying one from a dealership.

If you have a key fob with an external transmitter, however you'll need to go to the dealer. The dealer will be able identify your details, and send you the correct key for a lower cost than what you would pay locksmith.

If you have evidence of ownership like a registration or title or a certificate of ownership, a locksmith might be able create an entirely new key with your VIN. This is a much cheaper alternative than going to a dealer. However, it might not be possible when your car is older or has a high price.

It is best to have a spare set keys. Keep it in a safe location, like your home, so you don't need to be concerned about losing it when you leave your car. Check your pockets and purses frequently, especially if have a coat or jacket with large pockets. Examine places that you may not usually reach, such as the inside of your shoes when you wear shoes. Check your trunk to see if you have put your keys in there. It's easy for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They could be stolen if someone drives away in your car.