How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
It's a fact that every car owner loses their keys at some point. It happens more often than people think, however it can be a major trouble.
Fortunately, replacing lost car keys is relatively easy, depending on what type of key you have. 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
The loss of your car keys can be frustrating, especially when it happens at a hectic time of day and you need to get somewhere. It's not the end of the world and there are a variety of ways you can help you locate your lost car key replacement.
The first thing you need to do is to retrace your steps. This means going back through the places you've visited and taking a look around, both at home and work. This will give you a good idea of the last place you remember seeing your keys, and may help you find where they could be.
If you still can't locate your car keys, contact a locksmith or a dealership in your area for help. They'll be able to create the 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 from the system of your vehicle, so should someone manage to get their hands on it the key, they won't be able to drive your car.
Make sure you have your VIN handy before contacting a dealer or locksmith. This is the number found on your driver's side door panel or dashboard and will let them know which car you drive so they can design an appropriate key for your vehicle.
Memory Exercises
You might be tempted to be scared of losing your car keys However, try to remain calm. This will allow you to think clearly and search thoroughly. Close your eyes and relax. Then utilize your memory to recall the last time you viewed your keys. If you're having difficulty remembering the exact location, retrace your steps again and look for any clues that might have surfaced.
If you're unable to solve the problem you can contact a local locksmith or dealer for assistance. You'll need to provide them with information about your vehicle as well as its security system. They'll then create a new key that matches 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)
In the past the idea of losing or misplacing your car keys was not a big problem. You could call your local locksmith and have a new key made. But as cars have become more technological as well, so have keys, making them more expensive and difficult to replace. This is why it's crucial to always have an extra key in your car, or at least be aware of the price your car dealership will charge you to replace it if you lose one.
It is important to first find out if the key really missing. Examine the pockets of your jacket or pants along with the backseat and other places you may not normally check for, like the inside of a purse or shoe. Look through your owner's manual to determine if there are specific instructions on how to reset the key if it is dead.
If you've tried 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 keys, key fobs, or switchblade) it can cost you between $50-$200 to purchase an alternative one. If you have an old-fashioned key, you could get the locksmith to cut a new key and reprogram it for your vehicle. This is a much cheaper alternative to paying the dealer, who may charge up to $320 for a new key.
You'll need to contact your dealer and get your vehicle towed by them to allow them to purchase a new VIN-based keys for your vehicle. They will then have to pair your new key with the vehicle electronically. This can be a costly and time-consuming procedure. key lost car is why it's a great idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you can get the assistance of a professional should you ever need to!
Check Your Vehicle's Security System
No secret is that many modern vehicles come with advanced security features that protect the vehicle's content from theft. Although these features are typically a good thing but they can also make keys for the car more difficult to replace. However, it's not impossible to obtain an alternative key for these cars, though the process is more complex and expensive than it was in the past. The cost will be according to the kind of key your vehicle uses, which you should be aware of before getting one made.
The classic double-edged car keys can be made into a spare 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 cars, however, utilize transponder chips inside the keys to control various aspects of the car from locking and unlocking to switching on and turning off. These chips need to be programmed using a special machine that is only available in some dealerships.
A local locksmith can help you if you need a spare key for these cars. They will need the model and year of the vehicle and other information (like your registration number or your title) to verify that they are the owner. Certain locksmiths can create keys on site and save you the hassle of having to visit dealers.
The dealership is the best option if you don't have a spare. They are the best person to ask because they know the car and the keys you'll need to get started with it. It could be costly and they won't be available for roadside assistance.
Try a Bluetooth key tracker for an affordable alternative. These devices connect to your key ring, and emit signals that you can connect with an app on your smartphone. The app will provide you with the location of your keys, helping you to find them and preventing them from being lost in the first place!
Find a New Key
Everyone loses their car keys at one time or another. It can happen in the most inconvenient of times, such as at a gasstation or when loading groceries into your car. It is not difficult to find your keys, but it is stressful if you do not have a spare set of keys at home or with a buddy.
There are still ways to obtain a replacement key if you've lost the original. The procedure will depend on the type of key you have and your vehicle.
For example, if you have a key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder, it's fairly easy to get a locksmith to make a replacement on the spot. This option costs less than $200 and is typically quicker than purchasing one from the dealer.
You will need to visit the dealer if you own remote keys that have an external transmitter. The dealership will be able to locate your details and provide you with the correct key at a cheaper price than what you would pay when you visit an locksmith.
A locksmith may 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 much cheaper alternative to visiting a dealership. However, it might not be feasible if your vehicle is newer or expensive.
The best way to avoid losing your keys is by having an extra. Place it in a safe location, such as your home, so that you do not have to worry about losing it when you leave your car. It is also essential to check your purses and pockets regularly especially if you're wearing a jacket or coat with large pockets. Be sure to check the places you'd never reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you are on runners. Double-check your trunk if you have put your keys in there. It's easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They could be stolen when someone drives away in your car.