10 Things We Love About Lost Car Key Replacement

How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

It's a fact that we all lose car keys at some point. It happens more frequently than people think and can be a major inconvenience.

Fortunately, replacing lost car keys is fairly simple 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 at the local hardware store.

Retract Your Steps

It's a hassle to lose your car keys, particularly if it happens during a busy period of time when you need 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 replacing lost car key.

The first thing you need to do is go back to where you started. This can be done by going back to the places you have been and looking around, at both home and at work. This will give you an idea of the last place you've seen your keys and could help you find the location they might be.

If you can't find your car keys after retracing your steps you'll need to contact an auto locksmith or a local locksmith for assistance. They'll be able create an entirely new key for you, and decode the existing locks on your vehicle, so that only the new key can start it. They'll also wipe the old key out of your vehicle's system, meaning that 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 prior to contacting a dealer or locksmith. This is the number found on your driver's side dashboard or door panel, and it will inform them of the car you own so they can create an appropriate key for your vehicle.

Utilizing Your Memory

You may be tempted be scared of losing your car keys however, keep your cool. This will allow you to think clearly and look more thoroughly. Close your eyes and relax. Then utilize your memory to recall the last time you viewed your keys. If you're unable to recall where your keys were then retrace your steps and look for clues.

If you're having no luck try contacting a locksmith in your area or dealer to get help. You'll need to provide them with information about your vehicle as well as its security system. They'll be able to create a new key that matches your existing security chip. They'll also provide advice on how to prevent the loss of your keys in the future.

Verify Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).

Not too long ago losing or misplacing car keys wasn't a huge problem. You could just call your local locksmith and have a new key made. As cars become more technological, so too have their keys become more difficult and expensive to replace lost car key. This is why it's crucial to always keep a spare key on hand, or at least be aware of the price the dealership for your car will charge you to replace it if you lose one.

The first thing to do when you lose a car key is to confirm that the i lost the key to my car key is indeed missing. This is done by checking the pockets of the clothing you were wearing when you last used your car, or looking at the back of your vehicle, and even checking places you wouldn't usually look like the inside of a shoe or purse. Go through the owner's manual to determine if it contains any specific instructions on how to reset your key if it is dead.

If you've tried everything but still cannot find your car keys, it's time to contact a professional for an alternative. The cost of a new key can range from $50 to $200 based on the type you own. If you have a standard key, the locksmith will usually cut a new one and change it's programming to work with your vehicle. This is a much cheaper alternative than paying the dealer, who could charge up to $320 for a replacement key.

For a key fob or switchblade key, you'll need to contact your dealer and have the car towing in to request an additional key for your vehicle in accordance with the VIN. Then, they'll need to connect the 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 policy, so that you can have the help of an expert if you ever need to!

Make sure your vehicle's security system is working

There is no doubt that modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features to safeguard the contents of the car from theft. While these features are usually beneficial but they can also make keys for cars more difficult to replace lost car keys. It's still possible to get keys for replacement for these vehicles, but the process is more complicated and expensive. The exact cost will differ depending on the type of key your vehicle is using, and you must be aware of before getting one made.

The classic car key with a double edge can be turned into a spare at any hardware store or dealer. It typically costs less than $10 and will work just fine as a backup or to start the car in case of emergency. Transponder chips are employed in the latest models of keys to control various aspects of the vehicle, such as locking and unlocking, turning off and on, as well as other functions. The chips have to be programmed by a special machine, which is generally only available at some dealerships.

A local locksmith can help you if you need a spare key for these advanced cars. They will need the model and year of the vehicle, along with some other details (like your registration number or title) to verify that they are the owner. Some locksmiths will be capable of making keys in-person, saving you the time of having to visit an agent.

If you do not have a spare, the next best option is the dealership. They will be the most familiar with your car's model and the keys needed to get it started. This can be costly, however, and they won't be able to provide roadside assistance.

If you want a less expensive alternative, you can try a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices are attached to your key ring and emit a signal you can transmit to an app on your phone. The app will show you the location of your keys aiding you in finding them and prevent them from getting lost in the first place!

Get a New Key

Everyone loses their keys at some point. It can happen at the most awkward of places such as at a gas station or while taking groceries out of your trunk. Although it's simple to find your keys once again, it can be a very stressful situation in the event that you don't have a spare set at home or with your friends.

There are still ways to get a replacement key if you've lost car key what to do your original. The process is different based on your type of key and the vehicle you are using.

If you own an ignition lock key that is a cylinder, like it's fairly easy to have a local locksmith make a new one immediately. This will cost less than $200 and can be completed much quicker than purchasing one from a dealership.

If you have a key fob with an external transmitter, however you'll need to go to 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 create an alternative key with the help of your car's VIN, as you have evidence of ownership like your registration or title. This is a much less expensive alternative to visiting an auto dealer, but it's not always possible if you have a newer or more expensive vehicle.

It is recommended to have a spare set of keys. Keep it in a secure location, such as your home, so that you don't need to think about leaving it somewhere when you leave your vehicle. Make sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, especially if have an outer garment or jacket that has large pockets. Examine places that you may not usually reach, such as the inside of your shoe if you wear runners. Double-check your trunk if you have left keys in there. It's easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be stolen if someone drives away in your car.