how to replace a lost car key to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

It's a fact of life that everyone loses car keys at some time. It happens more often than most people realize, 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 you can have the most basic keys at your local hardware store.

Retract Your Steps

Losing your car keys is difficult, especially when it happens at a hectic time of the day when you have to go somewhere. It's not the worst thing in the world. There are many ways to locate your car key replacement.

The first thing you have to do is retrace your steps. This can be done by returning to the places you have been and taking a look around, both at the workplace and at home. This will help you find the keys by noting when you last seen them.

If you still can't locate your car keys, you can call an auto locksmith or a dealership nearby for assistance. They'll be able to make a new car keys for you, and decode the locks you have in place so that only the key is able to start the car. They'll also erase the old key out of the system of your vehicle, so even if someone does get their hands on it and steal it, they won't be allowed to drive your vehicle.

Before you call a locksmith or dealer, make sure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) handy. The VIN is on the driver's door panel or dashboard. It will allow them to know what vehicle you drive and they will be able to create a key that matches.

Memory Exercises

If you lose your car keys, you might be anxious. Try to remain calm. This will allow you to concentrate and conduct a thorough search. Close your eyes and relax. Then utilize your memory to remember the last time you saw your keys. If you are unable to remember where you put your keys, retrace the steps and look for clues.

If you're still having trouble, contact an auto locksmith or a dealership near you for assistance. You'll need to provide them with details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll then be able create an original key that matches your existing security chip. They'll also provide suggestions on how to prevent the loss of your keys in the future.

Verify Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).

It wasn't too long ago that losing keys to your car were not a huge issue. You could just contact your local locksmith and make a new key. As cars have evolved and so have their keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and more expensive. This is why it's essential to keep an extra key in your car or at the very least be aware of the price your car dealership will charge you to replace it if you lose one.

The first thing you need to do when you lose your car keys is to make sure that the lost electric key key is not actually missing. Examine the pockets of your jacket or pants as well as the back of your car, and other places that you may not normally go like the inside of a shoe or purse. Look through your owner's manual to determine if it contains specific instructions on how to reset your key if it is dead.

If you've done everything you can and you are still unable to locate your car keys, then you should contact an expert to obtain a new key. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional keys, key fobs or switchblade) it can cost you between $50-$200 to purchase an alternative one. If you have a conventional key, the locksmith can typically cut a new key and change it's programming to work with your vehicle. This is a cheaper option than the dealer's price, which can cost as much as $320 to replace a lost key.

You'll need to contact your dealer and request that your car towed for them to purchase a new VIN-based keys for your vehicle. Then, they'll need to pair the new key with your vehicle's computer which can be an expensive and time-consuming process. It's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to your policy to allow you to receive expert assistance if you need it!

Make sure your vehicle's security system is working

It's no secret that many modern cars have fancy security features that help keep the contents of the vehicle safe from thieves. These features make it harder to replace lost key for car car keys. It's not difficult to obtain an alternative key for these vehicles, though the process is more involved and costly than in the past. The cost of a new key will vary on the kind of vehicle you have. It is important to be aware of this prior to purchasing one.

The classic double-edged car key can be turned into a spare at any hardware store or dealer. The cost is typically less than $10 and will work perfectly as a backup key or to start your car in an urgent situation. More recent models of cars, however incorporate transponder chips into the keys to control different aspects of the vehicle including locking and unlocking to turning on and starting. The chips have to be programmed with a specific machine that is only available at certain dealerships.

A local locksmith can help you with a spare key for these vehicles. They'll need the year and model of your car and other details to confirm that you are the owner (like the registration number of your car or title). Some locksmiths are capable of making these keys onsite which will save you the hassle of having to go to dealers.

If you do not have a spare, the alternative is the dealership. They are the best people to ask because they know the car and the keys you require to start it. It can be expensive and they may not be available for roadside assistance.

If you want a less expensive alternative, you can try a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices connect to your key ring, emitting signals that you can connect with an app on your smartphone. The app will then provide you with the location of your keys helping you to find them and preventing them from getting lost in the first place!

Get a New Key

Everyone loses their car keys at some point or another. It could happen at the most awkward times, like at a gas station, or loading groceries into your trunk. It is not difficult to find your keys however 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 new key if you've lost car keys no spare the original. The process is different based on your type of key and vehicle.

If you own an ignition lock key for a cylinder, for instance it's relatively simple to get a locksmith in your area to make a replacement right on the spot. This is less than $200 and can be done quicker than purchasing a new one from a dealer.

If you have a key fob with an external transmitter, you'll have to visit the dealer. The dealer will be able to locate your details and provide you with the correct key at a lower cost than when you visit an locksmith.

If you have evidence of ownership such as an official title or registration or registration, a locksmith might be able to make keys using your VIN. This is a much less expensive alternative to going to an auto dealer however, it's not always possible if you have a newer or more expensive vehicle.

The best way to avoid losing your keys is by having an extra. Keep it in a safe location, like your home and you won't have to worry about putting it somewhere when you leave your vehicle. Check your pockets and purses frequently, particularly if you have an outer garment or jacket that has large pockets. Be sure to check the places that you would not normally reach, such as the inside of your shoes, especially if you're on runners. Be sure to check the trunk of your car if you put the keys in there. It's easy for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They could be stolen when someone drives away in your car.