How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
It's a fact that we all lose car keys at some moment in time. It happens more often than people think, but it can be a major inconvenience.
Fortunately, replacing lost car keys is fairly simple depending on the type of key you own. The most basic keys can usually be made at the local hardware store if you have the VIN number or proof of ownership.
Retract your Steps
It's a hassle to lose your car keys, particularly if it happens during a busy period of the day when you're required to be somewhere. It's not the most unpleasant thing in the world. There are many ways to locate your car key replacement.
The first thing you need to do is to retrace your steps. This can be done by returning to the places where you've been to and taking a look around, both at the workplace and at home. This will help you locate the keys by letting you know the last time you was able to see them.
If you are still unable to locate your car keys, contact a locksmith or a dealership in your area for help. They'll be able to 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 to ensure that if someone does manage to get it, they can't use your vehicle.
Make sure you have your VIN on hand before you contact an agent or locksmith. It's located on your driver's door panel or dashboard and will inform them of the vehicle you own so that they can design an appropriate key for your vehicle.
Using Your Memory
You may be tempted fear losing your car keys However, try to remain calm. This will enable you to think clearly and thoroughly. Close your eyes, relax and make use of your memory to recall where you were last able to see your car keys. If you are unable to remember where you put your keys you were, go back to the steps and search for clues.
If you're still having trouble, 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 be able create an original key that matches your existing security chip. They can also give you suggestions on how to prevent any future loss of keys.
Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing or losing your car keys was not a major issue. replace lost car key could just contact your local locksmith and get a new key made. As cars evolved and so have their keys. This makes them harder to replace and more expensive. This is why it's essential to keep a spare key on hand, or at least be aware of the price your car dealership will charge you to replace it if you lose one.
The first thing to do when you lose a car key is to ensure that the key you lost is actually missing. Examine the pockets of your jacket or pants as well as the back of your car, and other places you may not normally check for, like the inside of a purse or shoe. Check your owner's guide to determine if it contains any special instructions on how to reset the key if it is dead.
If you've checked everything but still cannot find your car keys, it's time to get an expert for a new one. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional, key fob or switchblade) it can cost you between $50-$200 to purchase a new one. If you have a traditional key, you could get the locksmith to make a new key and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is less expensive than the dealer's rates that could be as high as $320 to replace the lost key.
If you want a key fob or switchblade key, you'll need to call your dealership and have the car towing in to request the new key for your vehicle based on the VIN. They'll then need to connect your new key with the vehicle electronically. This could be a costly and time-consuming procedure. It's a great idea to include Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy so that you can get expert help if needed!
Check your vehicle's security system
No secret is that many modern cars are equipped with advanced security features that safeguard the contents of the car from thieves. While these security features are generally beneficial however, they can make the car keys more difficult to replace. There is still a possibility of getting a replacement key for these cars, but the process is more difficult and costly. The cost will be depending on the kind of key your vehicle is using, and you must be aware of prior to getting one made.
The easiest type of car key you can create a spare key for is the classic double-edged car key that can be purchased at any hardware store, locksmith, or car dealership. The cost is usually less than $10, and can be used as a backup key or to start your car in a dire situation. More recent models of automobiles, 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 using a special device that is only available in some dealerships.
If you're looking to create a spare for these more advanced types of cars, a locksmith local to you is likely to be able. They'll need the model and year of the vehicle and other details (like your registration number or your title) to prove that they are the owner. Certain locksmiths can create keys on site, saving you time from having to visit dealers.
The dealership is your best option if you don't own spare. They are the most familiar with your specific car and the keys needed to get it started. This can be expensive however, and they won't be available for roadside assistance.
Try using a Bluetooth key tracker for an affordable alternative. These devices are attached to your key ring, and emit a signal you can connect with an app on your smartphone. The app will show you where your keys are, helping you locate them and preventing them from getting lost in the first place!
Get a New Key
Everybody loses their keys at some time or another. It can happen in the most inconvenient of times such as at a petrol station or while loading groceries into your car. Although it's easy to find your keys again, it could be a very stressful situation if you don't have a spare set at home or with friends.
Fortunately, there are still options for you to get a new key if you have lost the original. The process depends on the type of key you own and the car you drive.
If you own an ignition lock key for a cylinder, for instance it's relatively simple to get a locksmith in your area to 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 equipped with an external transmitter, you'll have go to the dealer. The dealership will be able to find your information and issue you the right key at a cheaper price than you would pay for a locksmith.
If you have evidence of ownership like the title or registration or a certificate of ownership, a locksmith might be able create an entirely new key with your VIN. This is a much cheaper alternative to visiting a dealership. However, it may not be feasible when your car is older or expensive.
It is best to have a spare set keys. Keep it in a safe place, like your house in order to not have to worry about putting it in a place when you leave your vehicle. It's also important to check your purses and pockets regularly, especially if you wear a coat or jacket with large pockets. Don't forget to look at places you'd never reach, like 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 can be stolen if someone drives away in your car.