How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
Everyone loses their car keys at one time or another. It happens more frequently than people realize, however, and it can be a big problem.
Fortunately, replacing lost car key s can be relatively simple, depending on what type of key you have. The most basic keys can be made at a local hardware store if you have the VIN number or evidence of ownership.
Retract Your Steps
It's extremely frustrating to lose your car keys, especially when it happens during a busy period of the day when you're required to be somewhere. Fortunately, it's not the end of the world and there are a number of ways you can help you locate the replacement car key you lost.
It is recommended to retrace your steps. This can be done by returning to the places where you've been and looking around, at both your home and work. This will give you a good idea of where you've seen your keys and could lead you to the location they might be.
If you can't find your car keys after retracing your steps you'll need to call an auto locksmith or a local locksmith to get help. They will be able create a new car key for you, and will decode the locks you have in place so that only the key can start the car. They'll also erase the old key, so that if anyone manages to obtain it, they won't be able to use your vehicle.
Before you contact an expert locksmith or dealer, make sure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) available. It's located on your driver's dashboard or door panel and will let them know which car you own so they can create a new key to match.
Memory Exercises
You might be tempted to fear losing your car keys However, be calm. This will help you think clearly and search more thoroughly. Relax your eyes, close your eyes and utilize the power of your memory to recall where you saw your car keys last. If you're struggling to remember where they were, go back your steps again and look for any clues that could have surfaced.
If you are still having issues, contact an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area to get help. They'll require information about your vehicle as well as its security system. They'll then create an original key that matches the security chip you have already installed. They'll also be able to give you tips on how to avoid the loss of your keys in the future.
Verify Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys was not a major issue. You could just call your local locksmith to have a new key made. As cars become more technological as well, so have keys become more expensive and difficult to replace. This is why it's essential to keep a spare key on hand or at a minimum, be aware of the price your car dealership will charge you for a replacement if you lose one.
It is important to first find out if the key really missing. This is done by checking the pockets of the clothing you were wearing when you last used your car, looking inside the back seat of your car or even looking in places that you would not normally look like the inside of a shoe or purse. Look through your owner's manual to determine if it contains any special instructions on how to reset your key if it becomes dead.
If you have checked everything but still cannot find your car keys, it's time to contact an expert to get the replacement. The cost of a new one will vary from $50 to more than $200 depending on the type you own. If you have an old-fashioned key, you can usually get the locksmith to cut a new key and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is a much cheaper alternative to paying a dealer, who can charge up to $320 for a new key.
For a key fob, or switchblade keys, you'll need to contact your dealer and have your vehicle towed to them to request a new key for your vehicle that is based on the VIN. Then, they'll need to pair your new key with your vehicle electronically. This can be a costly and time-consuming procedure. This is why it's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you will have the assistance of a professional should you ever require it!
Check your vehicle's security system
There is no doubt that modern vehicles come with advanced security features that protect the vehicle's content from theft. These features make it harder to replace car keys. Fortunately, it's not impossible to get a new key for these vehicles however, the process is more complicated and costly than it was in the past. The cost of a new key will depend on the kind of vehicle you have. You should be aware of this prior ordering one.
The classic double-edged car keys can be converted into a spare by visiting any hardware store or dealership. It typically costs less than $10 and will be a perfect backup or to start the car in case of emergency. The latest 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 off. These chips must be programmed with a special machine, which is typically only available at certain dealerships.
A locksmith in your area can assist you with an extra key for these cars. They will need the model and year of the vehicle as well as other details (like your registration number or title) to verify that they are the owner. Some locksmiths can make these keys on the spot which will save you time from having to visit a dealer.
The dealership is the best option if you don't own a spare. They are the most knowledgeable about your particular vehicle and the keys that are required to start it. This could be costly, but they won't be open for roadside assistance.
Try a Bluetooth key tracker for an affordable alternative. 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 can then show you where your keys are, helping you find them and prevent them from getting lost in the first place!
Find a New Key
Every car owner loses their keys at one time or another. It can happen in the most awkward of places like at a petrol station or while loading groceries into your car. Although it's simple to find your keys once again, it can be a very stressful scenario when you don't have a spare set in your home or with friends.
There are ways to get a new key in case you've lost your original. The process varies depending on your kind of key and your vehicle.
If you have an ignition lock cylinder key, for example it's fairly easy to have a locksmith local to make a new one on the spot. This is less than $200, and is usually quicker than buying one from the dealership.
If you have a key fob that has an external transmitter, however you'll have to visit the dealer. The dealership will be able to find your information and send you the right key at a lower cost than what you would pay if you went to locksmith.
A locksmith might also be able to create an alternative key by using your car's VIN, as long as you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title. This is a less expensive alternative to visiting a dealership. However, it may not be a possibility in the case of a vehicle that is older or has a high price.
It is best to keep a spare set of keys. Place it in a secure location, such as your home, so that you don't have to worry about leaving it in the event that you leave your vehicle. It is also essential to check the pockets and purses frequently, especially if you wear an outerwear item with large pockets. Examine places that you may not usually reach, such as the inside of your shoes in the event that you wear runners. Double-check your trunk if you have left keys in there. It's easy for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be taken if someone drives away in your car.