How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
Everyone loses their car keys at one time or another. It happens more often than people think, but it can be a major trouble.
Fortunately, replacing lost car keys is fairly simple, depending on what type of key you have. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership you can have the most basic keys made at the local hardware store.
Retract Your Steps
Losing your car keys is frustrating, especially when it happens at a hectic time of day and you're required to travel. It's not the most unpleasant thing that could happen to you. There are many ways to find your car key replacement.
It is recommended to retrace your steps. This can be done by returning to the places you've been and taking a look around, both at home and at work. This will give you a good idea of where you recalled seeing your keys and can guide you to the location they might be.
If you still can't locate your car keys, contact a locksmith or dealership in your area for help. They'll be able to create the new key for you and also decode the locks on your vehicle so that only the new key is able to start it. They will also delete the old key so that if someone does manage to steal it, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.
Before you call a locksmith or dealer ensure you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) in your pocket. This number is found on the driver's door or dashboard. It will allow them to know what vehicle you own so they can create keys that match.
Using Your Memory
You may be tempted to fear losing your car keys, but be calm. This will help you think clearly and search more deeply. Relax your eyes and close them. Then utilize your memory to remember the last time you viewed your keys. If you're unable to recall the location of your keys, retrace the steps and look for clues.
If you're having no luck you can contact a local locksmith or dealership to get help. You'll have to provide them with details about your car and the security system that it uses and they'll create a new key that can be paired with your security chip. They'll also be able to give you suggestions on how to prevent any future loss of keys.
Verify Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
In the past the idea of losing or misplacing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could call your local locksmith to have a new key made. As cars have evolved and sophisticated, so have keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and costlier. This is why it's essential to keep a spare key on hand or at a minimum, know how much your car dealer will charge for a replacement in the event that you lose one.
You should first check to determine if the key is really missing. Check the pockets of your jacket or pants, the backseat, and other places that you may not normally go for, like the inside of a purse or shoe. Look through your owner's manual to determine if there are any specific instructions on how to reset the key if it becomes dead.
If you've tried all the possibilities but are still unable to locate your car keys, it's time to get an expert to get a new one. The cost of a new key will vary from $50 to over $200, based on the kind you have. If you have a traditional key, you could get the locksmith to cut a new one and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is a cheaper alternative than paying the dealer, who may charge up to $320 for a new key.
You'll have to contact your dealer and get your vehicle towed by them to allow them to obtain a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. Then, they will have to pair the new key to your vehicle's electronic key this is a costly and time-consuming procedure. This is why it's a good idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance, so you can have the help of a professional if you ever require it!
Make sure your vehicle's security is checked.
It's no secret that many modern cars have fancy security features that help keep the contents of the vehicle safe from thieves. Although these features are typically beneficial but they can also make keys for cars more difficult to replace. However, it's not impossible to find an alternative key for these vehicles although the process is more complicated and costly than in the past. The exact cost will differ based on the type of key your vehicle uses, which you should be aware of prior to having one made.
The most straightforward kind of car key to create a spare key for is the classic double-edged key that can be replaced at any hardware store, locksmith, or car dealership. The cost is usually less than $10, and can be used as a backup key to start your car in a dire situation. The latest models of cars, however incorporate transponder chips into the keys to control different aspects of the vehicle, from locking and unlocking to turning on and starting. The chips have to be programmed with a specific machine that is only available in some dealerships.
A locksmith near you can assist you if you need a spare key for these cars. They'll need the model and year of your car as well as other details to prove that you're the owner (like the registration number of your car or title). Certain locksmiths can create keys on site which will save you time from having to visit an agent.
The dealership is the best option if there isn't an extra. They will be the most familiar with your specific car and the keys required to start it. It can be expensive and they may not be able to provide roadside assistance.
For a much more affordable alternative, try using a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices connect to your key ring, and emit a signal you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then provide you with the whereabouts of your keys, helping you locate the keys and preventing them from getting lost in the first place!
Find a New Key
Everyone loses their keys at some time or another. It can happen in the most awkward of places, such as at a petrol station or while loading groceries into your trunk. Although it's simple to find your keys again, this can be a stressful experience if you don't have an extra set at home or with your friends.
There are still options to obtain a new key in the event that you've lost the original. The procedure will depend on the type of key you own and the vehicle you are using.
For example, if you have a traditional key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder it's easy to get a locksmith to make an immediate replacement. This option is less than $200 and can be done much faster than buying one from a dealership.
You'll need to go to the dealer if you have remote keys that have an external transmitter. The dealer will be able to locate your information and issue you the correct key at a lower cost than you would pay for locksmith.
If you have evidence of ownership like a registration or title or a certificate of ownership, a locksmith might be able create keys using your VIN. This is a much less expensive alternative to visiting the dealership however, it's not always possible if you own a newer or more expensive vehicle.
The best method to avoid losing your keys is having an extra. Keep it in a safe place, like your house and you won't have to worry about leaving it somewhere when you leave your vehicle. It is also essential to check your purses and pockets regularly, especially if you wear a jacket or coat with large pockets. Be sure to check the places you'd never reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you have on runners. Double-check your trunk if you have left keys in there. It's easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They could be stolen if someone drives away in your car.