How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
Everyone loses their car keys at one point or some other time. It happens more than people think however it can be a big trouble.
It is possible to replace lost car keys depending on the type of key you have. The most basic keys can usually be made at an area hardware store, provided you provide the VIN number or proof of ownership.
Retract Your Steps
It's frustrating to lose your car keys, particularly if it occurs 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 your car key replacement.
The first thing you have to do is go back to where you started. This means going back through the places you've been and taking a look around, both at home and work. This will help you locate the keys by letting you know when you last saw them.
If you can't find your car keys after retracing your steps you'll want to call an auto locksmith or a local locksmith to get help. They'll be able to create an entirely new key for you, and decode the locks that are al read y in your vehicle so that only the new key can start it. They'll also remove the old key, so that if someone does manage to obtain it, they aren't able to use your vehicle.
Make sure you have your VIN on hand prior to contacting an agent or locksmith. The VIN is on the driver's door panel or dashboard. It will inform them of the vehicle you own, so they can make a key that matches.
Making Use of Your Memory
You may be tempted to panic at the thought of losing your car keys however, keep your cool. This will allow you to concentrate and search thoroughly. Close your eyes, relax and make use of your memory to remember where you saw your car keys last. If you are unable to remember 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 dealer to get help. You'll need to provide them with details about your vehicle and its security system, and they'll make a replacement key that can be paired with your security chip. They'll also advise you on steps to prevent key loss.
Verify Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys was not a big problem. Call your local locksmith and get a new car key. As cars become more advanced as well, so have keys become more expensive and difficult to replace. It's important to have an extra car key or to know the cost of a replacement in case you lose yours.
It is important to first find out if the key really missing. Check the pockets of your pants or jacket as well as the back of your car, and other places that you may not normally look, such as the inside of a purse or shoe. Look through your owner's manual to see if it has specific instructions on how to reset the key if it becomes dead.
If you've checked everything and you are still unable to locate your car keys, then you should contact an expert to request a new key. The cost of a new one will vary from $50 to over $200 based on the type you own. If you have an old-fashioned key, you could have the locksmith simply cut a new one and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is a less expensive option than the dealer's price which could be as high as $320 to replace a lost key.
You'll have to contact your dealer and request that your vehicle towing by them to allow them to obtain a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. Then, they'll have to connect the new key with your vehicle's computer, which can be an expensive and lengthy procedure. This is why it's a good idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance policy, so that you will have the assistance of an expert if you ever require it!
Make sure your vehicle's security system is working
There is no doubt that modern cars are equipped with sophisticated security features to ensure that the car's contents are safe from thieves. These features make it harder to replace keys for your car. Fortunately, it's not impossible to get a new key for these vehicles although the process is more complex and expensive than in the past. The exact cost will vary depending on the kind of key your vehicle has, and this is something you need to be aware of prior to getting one made.
The classic double-edged car keys can be made into a spare key at any hardware store or at a dealership. The price is typically less than $10, and is perfect as a backup key to start your car in an emergency situation. The latest models of automobiles, however, incorporate transponder chips into the keys to control different aspects of the car from locking and unlocking to turning on and starting. These chips must be programmed with a special machine, which is generally only available at certain dealerships.
When you need to make an extra for these more advanced models of cars, a local locksmith should be able to help. They will need to know the year and model of your car, as well as some other details to confirm that you are the owner (like the registration number of your car or title). Some locksmiths can make these keys on the spot, saving you time from having to visit a dealer.
If you don't have a spare, the next best option is the dealership. They are the best people to talk to because they are familiar with your car and what keys you'll need to get started with it. It can be expensive 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 attach to your key ring, emitting signals that you can connect with an app on your smartphone. The app will then inform you where your keys are located, helping you locate them and prevent them from being lost in the first place!
Find a new key
Everyone loses their keys at some moment in time. It can happen at the most awkward of places, such as at a petrol station or while taking groceries out of your trunk. Although it's simple to find your keys again, it can be a very stressful situation if you don't have a spare set in your home or with your family.
There are ways to get a new key if you've lost your original. The procedure is dependent on the type of key you have and your vehicle.
For instance, if have a traditional key that fits into an ignition lock cylinder, it's easy to have a locksmith make a replacement on the spot. This option costs less than $200, and is often quicker than getting one from a dealership.
You will need to visit the dealer if you own a remote key with an external transmitter. The dealer will locate your information, and then send you the correct key for a lower cost than what you would pay locksmith.
A locksmith may also be able to create keys for replacement by using the VIN number of your car, as you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title. This is a cheaper option than going to a dealer. However, it may not be a possibility when your car is older or expensive.
It is best to have a spare set keys. Place it in a secure location, such as your home and you won't have to worry about putting it in a place when you leave your vehicle. Be sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, especially if have an outer garment or jacket that has large pockets. Don't forget to look at places that you would not normally reach, like the inside of your shoes if you have on runners. Be sure to check the trunk of your car, if you've put the keys in there. It's easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be taken if someone drives away in your vehicle.