How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
Everyone loses their car keys at one time or some other time. It happens more often than most people realize it can be a major problem.
Fortunately the replacement of lost car keys is fairly simple depending on the kind of key you have. The most basic keys can usually be made at an area hardware store, provided you can provide the VIN number or proof of ownership.
Retract your steps
The loss of your car keys can be stressful, especially if it happens at a hectic time of day and you're required to travel. It's not the most frustrating thing that could happen to you. There are a variety of ways to find your car key replacement.
The first thing to do is retrace your steps. This means going back to the places you've visited and taking a look around at home and work. This will give you an idea of the last place you remember seeing your keys, and may guide you to where they might be.
If you're unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps you'll want to call a local locksmith or dealership to get help. They'll be able create an entirely new key for you, and decode the locks that are already in your vehicle so that only the new key can start it. They'll also remove the old key out of your vehicle's system, meaning that should someone manage to gain access to it and steal it, they won't be allowed to drive your car.
Be sure to have your VIN handy before you contact an agent or locksmith. It's located on your driver's dashboard or door panel, and it will let them know which car you drive so they can design an appropriate key for your vehicle.
Using Your Memory
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, close your eyes and make use of your memory to remember where you found your car keys the last time. If you can't remember the location of your keys, retrace the steps and search for clues.
If you're experiencing issues, call a locksmith or dealership in your area to get help. You'll need to provide them with information about your vehicle as well as its security system. They'll then create keys that match your existing security chip. They'll also be able to give you suggestions on how to prevent future key losses.
Check Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).
Not too long ago, misplacing-or losing-your car keys wasn't a big deal. lost keys for car could call your local locksmith to get a new key made. But as cars have become more technological, so too have their keys becoming more difficult and expensive to replace. It's essential to have an extra car key or to be aware of the cost of replacing it in the event that you lose yours.
The first thing to do when you lose your car keys is to make sure that the lost key is indeed missing. Check the pockets of your jacket or pants along with the backseat and other places that you may not normally check for, like the inside of your shoe or purse. Also, you should go through your owner's manual and see if there are any specific instructions for the type of key you have, such as how to reset it if it dies.
If you've tried everything but you are still unable to locate your car keys, then you should contact an expert to request a new key. The cost of a new one will vary from $50 to over $200, based on the kind you own. If you own a traditional key, the locksmith will usually cut a new one and modify it to fit your vehicle. This is a cheaper alternative to paying the dealer, who could charge up to $320 for a new key.
You'll have to contact your dealer and request that your car towed for them to obtain a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. Then, they'll need to pair your new key with your vehicle electronically. This could be a costly and lengthy procedure. This is why it's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance, so you will have the assistance of a professional if you ever require it!
Make sure your vehicle's security is checked.
It's no secret that many modern cars come with fancy security features that help keep the vehicle's contents safe from theft. These security features can make it difficult to replace keys for your car. There is still a possibility of getting a replacement 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 own. You should know this before ordering one.
The classic double-edged car keys can be turned into a spare by visiting any hardware store or at a dealership. It is usually less than $10 and will work just fine as a backup or to start the car in case of emergency. Transponder chips are used in more recent models of keys for cars to control various aspects of the vehicle, including locking and unlocking, switching on and off, and other functions. These chips need to be programmed using a special machine that is only available at certain dealerships.
If you're looking to create an additional spare for these sophisticated automobiles, a locksmith in your area should be able to help. They will need to know the year and model of your car and other details to prove that you're the owner (like the registration number on your car or title). Some locksmiths will be capable of making these keys onsite and save you the hassle of going to dealers.
If you do not have a spare, the alternative is to go to the dealership. They are the best person to talk to because they are familiar with the vehicle and what keys you'll need to get started with it. This can be costly, however, and they won't be able to provide assistance on the road.
To get a more affordable alternative, consider a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices attach to your key ring, emitting a signal you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then show you the whereabouts of your keys, helping you locate them and preventing them from being lost in the first place!
Find a New Key
Everyone loses their car keys at some point or another. It can happen at the most awkward of places such as at a petrol station or while loading groceries into your car. It is not difficult to locate your keys however it is stressful if you do not have an extra set of keys at home or with a companion.
There are still alternatives to purchase new keys in the event that you've lost the original. The process varies depending on the 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 right on the spot. This will cost less than $200, and is usually quicker than buying one from the dealership.
You'll need to visit the dealer if you have remote keys that have an external transmitter. The dealer will find your information and then send you the correct key for a lower cost than what you would pay locksmith.
A locksmith might also be able create an alternative key using the VIN of your vehicle, so you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title. This is a cheaper option than visiting a dealership. However, it might not be feasible if your vehicle is newer or costly.
The best way to avoid losing your keys is having an extra. Keep it in a secure place, such as your home, so you do not have to be concerned about losing it when you leave your vehicle. Make sure to check your purses and pockets often, especially if you have coats or jackets with large pockets. Don't forget to look at places you wouldn't normally reach, like the inside of your shoes if you have on runners. Also, make sure to check the trunk of your car if you have put keys there. It's easy to forget that you put them in there and they're easily stolen if someone else leaves in your car.
