How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
Everyone loses their car keys at one point or another. It happens more frequently than people think, but it is a huge inconvenience.
It is possible to replace lost car keys, dependent on the type of key you have. The most basic keys can be made at the local hardware store if you provide the VIN number or proof of ownership.
Retract Your Steps
Losing your car keys can be difficult, especially when it happens at a busy time of the day when you're required to travel. It's not the most frustrating thing in the world. There are a variety of ways to find your car key replacement.
It is recommended to retrace your steps. 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, letting you know when you last saw them.
If you are still unable to locate your car keys, you can call an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area for assistance. They'll be able to create a new car keys for you, and decode your locks to ensure that only the key is able to start the vehicle. They'll also remove the old key from your vehicle's system, meaning that should someone manage to get their hands on it and steal it, they won't be allowed to drive your car.
Before you contact a locksmith or dealer, ensure you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) handy. It's located on your driver's dashboard or door panel and will allow them to know what car you drive so they can make an appropriate key for your vehicle.
Utilizing Your Memory
You might be tempted to be scared of losing your car keys However, keep your cool. This will allow you to think clearly and look more deeply. Close your eyes, relax and make use of your memory to remember the location where you last found your car keys the last time. If you're having trouble remembering where they were, retrace your steps once more and look for any clues that could have surfaced.
If you are still having trouble, contact a locksmith or dealership in your area for help. You'll be required to provide details about your vehicle and the security system that it uses, and they'll create a replacement key that is compatible with your security chip. They can also give you tips on how to avoid future key losses.
Verify Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).
Not too long ago losing or misplacing car keys was not a big 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. That's why it's important to always have a spare key around or at a minimum, be aware of the price your car dealer will charge you to replace it if you lose one.
The first thing you need to do when you lose your car keys is to confirm that the lost key is actually missing. This can be done by checking the pockets of the pants or jacket you wore when you last used your car, or looking in the backseat of your car as well as checking out places that you would not normally look like the inside of a shoe or a purse. Check your owner's guide to see if it has any specific instructions on how to reset the key if it becomes dead.
If you've done everything you can and you are still unable to locate your car keys, it's time to contact an expert to obtain new keys. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional, key fob or switchblade) it could cost you anything from $50 to $200 to buy a new one. If you have a conventional key, a locksmith can usually cut a new one and modify it to fit your vehicle. This is a less expensive option than the dealer's price, which can be as much as $320 to replace keys that have been lost.
You'll have to contact your dealer and have your car towed for them to obtain a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. Then, they'll have to connect the new key with your vehicle's electronic key, which can be an expensive and lengthy procedure. This is why it's a good idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance, so you can have the help of a professional if you ever need it!
Check Your Vehicle's Security System
It's not a secret that many modern cars have fancy security features that help keep the contents of the vehicle safe from theft. While these security features are generally an excellent thing, they can also make the car keys more difficult to replace. It's still possible to get a replacement key for these cars, but the process is more complicated and costly. The cost will be based on the kind of key your vehicle has, and this is something you need to be aware of prior to getting one made.
g28carkeys -edged car keys can be converted into a spare by visiting any hardware store or dealer. The cost is usually less than $10, and it will work perfectly as a backup key or to start your car in a dire situation. The latest models of cars, however, use transponder chips in the keys to control various aspects of the car, from locking and unlocking to switching on and turning off. These chips must be programmed using a special device that is only available in some dealerships.
If you're in need of a spare for these more advanced types of cars, a local locksmith will be able to assist. They will need the model and year of the vehicle, along with some other information (like your registration number or your title) to verify that they are the owner. Some locksmiths will be able to make keys on the spot which will save you the hassle of going to dealers.
If you don't have a spare car, the alternative is the dealership. They are the most familiar with your particular vehicle and the keys that are required to start it. It could be costly and they may not be able to assist you on the road.
Try using a Bluetooth key tracker for an affordable alternative. These devices are attached to your key ring and emit a signal that you can connect to an app on your phone. The app will show you where your keys are located, aiding you in finding them, and stop them from being lost in the first place!
Get a New Key
Everyone loses their keys at some point. It can happen in the most awkward of places, such as at a petrol station or while taking groceries out of your trunk. It is not difficult to find your keys however it can be stressful if you don't have an extra set of keys at home or with a buddy.
There are still ways to get a new key in case you've lost your original. The procedure varies based on the type of key and vehicle.
If you own an ignition lock key for a cylinder, for instance it's relatively simple to have a local locksmith make a new one on the spot. This will cost less than $200, and it's usually quicker than buying one from a dealership.
If you have a key fob equipped with an external transmitter,, you'll need to go to the dealer. The dealer will be able to locate your information and issue you the correct key at a lower cost than what you would pay for locksmith.
If you have proof of ownership, such as a registration or title or registration, a locksmith might be able to make keys using your VIN. This is a cheaper alternative to visiting a dealership however, it's not always possible if you own a brand new or more expensive car.
It is best to keep a spare set of keys. 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 vehicle. Make sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, especially if have a coat or jacket with large pockets. Be sure to check the places that you would not normally reach, such as the inside of your shoes, especially if you're 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 taken if someone drives away in your car.