How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
It's a fact that we all lose car keys at some moment in time. car keys lost no spare happens more frequently than people think, however, and it can be a big hassle.
It is possible to replace lost car keys, dependent 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
Losing your car keys is frustrating, especially when it happens at a busy time of the day and you have to go somewhere. It's not the most frustrating thing that could happen to you. There are a variety of ways to locate your car key replacement.
The first thing to do is to retrace your steps. This means going back through the places you've visited and taking a look around at home as well as at work. This will help you find the keys, letting you know where you last seen them.
If you can't find your car keys after retracing your steps you'll need to contact an area locksmith or dealership to get help. They will be able create a new car keys for you, and will decode the locks you have in place so that only the key will be able to start the vehicle. They'll also remove the old key from your vehicle's system, so even if someone does gain access to it, they won't be able to drive your car.
Be sure to have your VIN on hand before you contact an agent or locksmith. This number is located on the driver's door or dashboard. It will allow them to know what car you own so they can create keys that are compatible with.
Memory Exercises
You may be tempted to panic at the thought of losing your car keys However, be calm. This will enable you to concentrate and conduct a thorough search. Relax your eyes and close them. Then you can use your memory to remember the last time you saw your keys. If you can't remember where your keys were then retrace your steps and look for clues.
If you're not getting any luck, contact a local locksmith or dealer for assistance. You'll be required to provide information about your vehicle and the security system that it uses and they'll be able make a replacement key that can be paired with your existing security chip. They'll also be able provide you with ways to prevent future key loss.
Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
In the past the idea of losing or misplacing your car keys was not a big deal. You could contact your local locksmith and make a new key. As cars evolved and so have their keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and also more expensive. It's essential to have a spare car key or to be aware of the cost of a replacement in case you lose yours.
The first thing you need to do when you lose your car keys is to make sure that the lost key is indeed missing. Examine the pockets of your pants or jacket as well as the back of your car, and other places you might not normally go for, like the inside of a shoe or purse. Look through your owner's manual to determine if there are any special instructions on how to reset your key if it is dead.
If you have checked everything but still cannot find your car keys, it's time to call a professional for an alternative. The cost of a new one will vary from $50 to over $200, based on the kind you have. If you own a traditional key, you can usually have the locksmith simply cut a new one and reprogram it for your vehicle. This is a cheaper option than the dealer's rates, which could be as high as $320 to replace keys that have been lost.
For a key fob, or switchblade key, you'll have to call your dealership and have the car towing in to order the new key for your vehicle that is based on the VIN. Then, they will have to connect the new key with your vehicle's computer this could be a costly and time-consuming process. This is why it's a great idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you can have the help of an expert if you ever need to!
Check Your Vehicle's Security System
No secret is that many modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features to ensure that the car's contents are safe from theft. While these security features are generally a good thing, they can also make the car keys more difficult to replace. Fortunately, it's not impossible to get a new key for these vehicles however, the process is more complex and expensive than in the past. The cost of the new key will be contingent on the type of vehicle you have. You should be aware of this prior ordering one.
The easiest type of car key to make a spare for is the traditional double-edged key that can be purchased at any hardware store, locksmith or car dealership. 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 utilized in more recent models of car keys to control different aspects of the vehicle, including locking and unlocking, switching off and on, and other functions. These chips must be programmed using a specific machine, which is typically only available at some dealerships.
A locksmith near you can assist you if you need an extra key for these advanced cars. They'll need the model and year of the vehicle and other details (like your registration number or your title) to verify that they are the owner. Some locksmiths can make these keys on-site, saving you time from having to visit an agent.
If you do not have a spare, the next best option is the dealership. They'll be the most familiar with your car's model and the keys needed to get it started. This can be costly, but they won't be available for assistance at the roadside.
Try using a Bluetooth key tracker as an affordable alternative. These devices connect to your key ring and emit a signal you can connect with an app on your smartphone. The app can then show you where your keys are, helping you locate them and preventing them from getting lost in the first place!
Get a New Key
Every car owner loses their keys at one point or another. It can happen at the most awkward of places like at a petrol station or while loading groceries into your car. Although it's easy to find your keys once again, it can be a very stressful scenario if you don't have a spare set in your home or with your friends.
There are ways to obtain a replacement key if you've lost the original. The procedure is dependent on the type of key you own and the vehicle you are using.
For example, if you have a standard key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder, it's relatively simple to have a locksmith create an immediate replacement. This will cost less than $200 and is typically quicker than purchasing one from the dealership.
If you have a key fob that has an external transmitter, you'll have go to the dealer. The dealer will be able to locate your details and provide you with the correct key at a lower cost than you would pay if you went to an locksmith.
A locksmith might also be able to create keys for replacement using the VIN of your vehicle, so you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title. This is a less expensive alternative to visiting a dealership, but it's not always feasible if you have a newer or more expensive vehicle.
The best way to prevent losing your keys is by having a spare. Place it in a secure location, such as your home and you won't need to think about leaving it somewhere when you leave your vehicle. It's also important to inspect the pockets and purses frequently particularly if you are wearing a coat or jacket with large pockets. Check places you might not typically reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you wear runners. Finally, be sure to double-check the trunk of your car if you have put the keys in there. It's easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be taken when someone drives away in your vehicle.