20 Trailblazers Leading The Way In Lost Car Key Replacement

How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

It's a fact of life that every car owner loses their keys at some point. It happens more than people think however it can be a big inconvenience.

Fortunately the replacement of lost car keys is relatively easy depending on the type of key you have. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership then you can get the most basic keys made at your local hardware store.

Retract your steps

It's frustrating to lose your car keys, especially if it occurs during a busy period of the day when you have to go somewhere. It's not the end of the world and there are a variety of ways to assist you in finding your lost car key replacement.

You must first retrace your steps. This involves going back through the places you've been and taking a look around at home as well as at work. This will give you an idea of the last location you recalled seeing your keys and can guide you to the location they might be.

If you're unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll need to call an auto locksmith or a local locksmith for assistance. They'll be able to make an entirely new car key for you, and decode the locks you have in place so that only the key will be able to start the car. They'll also erase the old key out of your vehicle's system, so should someone manage to get their hands on it, they won't be able to drive your car.

Be sure to have your VIN handy before you contact the locksmith or dealer. This number is found on the driver's door panel or on the dashboard. It will let them know what vehicle you own so they can create keys that are compatible with.

Making Use of Your Memory

You may be tempted panic at the thought of losing your car keys, but keep your cool. This will allow you to concentrate and search thoroughly. Close your eyes and relax. Then, use your memory to recall the last place you saw your keys. If you're struggling to remember where they were, go back your steps again and look for any clues that may have surfaced.

If you're unable to solve the problem, contact a local locksmith or dealership for assistance. You'll have to provide them with details about your vehicle and its security system and they'll be able to create a replacement key that will pair with your security chip. They can also give you suggestions on how to prevent the loss of your keys in the future.

Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car were not a huge problem. You could simply call your local locksmith and make a new key. As cars have evolved and so have their keys. This makes them harder to replace and also more expensive. That's why it's important to keep an extra key in your car or at a minimum, know the amount your car dealer will charge you for a replacement if you lose one.

It is important to first see if the key is really missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the jacket or pants you wore when you last used your car, or looking in the backseat of your vehicle as well as checking out places that you would not normally look like the inside of a shoe or purse. You should also go through your owner's manual and find out if there are specific instructions for the kind of key you have like how to reset it in the event that it dies.

If you've tried everything but still haven't found your car keys, it's time to contact a professional to get a new key. The cost of a new key will vary from $50 to more than $200 depending on the type you have. If you have a standard key, a locksmith can usually cut a new one and modify it to match your car. This is a cheaper alternative to paying a dealer, who could 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 car towed in for them to purchase a new key for your vehicle based on the VIN. They will then have to connect your new key with your vehicle electronically. This can be a costly and time-consuming process. This is why it's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you can have the help of an expert if you ever require it!

Check the security system of your car.

It's no secret that many modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features to protect the vehicle's content from theft. These security features can make it more difficult to replace the car keys. Fortunately, it's not impossible to find a new key for these vehicles however, the process is more involved and expensive than it was in the past. The exact cost will vary based on the type of key your vehicle is using, and you must be aware of prior to having one made.

The classic double-edged car key can be converted into a spare by visiting any hardware store or at a dealership. It is usually less than $10 and work just fine as a backup or to start the car in the event of an emergency. More recent models of cars, however, utilize transponder chips inside the keys to control various aspects of the car including locking and unlocking to turning on and starting. These chips need to be programmed using a special machine that is only available in some dealerships.

If you're in need of a spare for these more advanced types of automobiles, a locksmith in your area should be able to help. They will need to know the year and model of your car as well as other details to confirm that you are the owner (like the registration number of your car or title). Some locksmiths will be able to make keys on the spot, saving you the time of having to visit an agent.

The dealership is the best option if you don't own a spare. They are the best people to talk to because they are familiar with your car and what keys you need to start it. This could be costly, however, and they won't be open for assistance at the roadside.

For a much more affordable alternative, you can try a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices are attached to your key ring and emit a signal you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will show you where your keys are, aiding you in finding them, and stop them from being lost in the first place!

Find a new key

Every car owner loses their keys at one time or another.  lost car key with no spare  can happen at the most awkward times, like at a gas station or loading groceries into your trunk. Although it's simple to find your keys again, this can be a stressful experience in the event that you don't have an extra set at home or with friends.

Fortunately, there are still alternatives to purchase an alternative key if you have lost the original. The process depends on the type of key you have and your vehicle.

If you have an ignition lock cylinder key, for example it's relatively simple to have a locksmith local to make a replacement right on the spot. This is less than $200, and it's typically quicker than purchasing one from a dealership.

If you have a key fob equipped with an external transmitter, you'll need go to the dealer. The dealership will be able to find your details and provide you with the right key at a lower cost than you would pay for locksmith.

A locksmith might also be able create an alternative key by using the VIN of your vehicle, so you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title. This is a less expensive alternative than visiting a dealership. However, it might not be a possibility when your car is older or costly.

It is recommended to have a spare set of keys. Place it in a safe place, such as your home, so you don't need to be concerned about losing it when you leave your vehicle. It's also important to inspect the pockets and purses frequently, especially if you wear an outerwear item with large pockets. Check places you might not normally reach, like the inside of your shoes in the event that you wear runners. Check your trunk to see if you have put your keys in there. It's easy to forget you left them there and they can easily get stolen if a driver takes off in your vehicle.