Guide To Lost Car Key Replacement: The Intermediate Guide The Steps To…

How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

Everyone loses their car keys at one time or another. It happens more often than people think, however, and it can be a major trouble.

Fortunately the replacement of lost keys to car car keys can be relatively simple, depending on what type of key you own. The most basic keys can 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 busy time of the day and you need to get somewhere. However, it's not the end of the world and there are a variety of ways to assist you in finding your lost car key replacement.

You should first retrace all your steps. This means going back through the places you've visited and taking a look around at home and work. This will give you an idea of the last place you remember seeing your keys and can guide you to where they might be.

If you're unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll need to call an auto locksmith or a local locksmith for assistance. They'll be able to make an entirely new key for you and decode the locks on your vehicle to ensure that only the new key will be able to start it. They'll also erase the old key from your vehicle's system, meaning that should someone manage to get their hands on it, they won't be able to drive your car.

Before you call a locksmith or dealer ensure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) in your pocket. This number is located on the driver's door panel or on the dashboard. It will let them know what vehicle you drive so they can create a key that matches.

Memory Exercises

You may be tempted fear losing your car keys, but be calm. This will enable you to think clearly and search thoroughly. Relax your eyes and close them. Then, use your memory to recall the last time you viewed your keys. If you're unable to recall the location of your keys, retrace the steps and search for clues.

If you're unable to solve the problem try contacting a locksmith in your area or dealer for assistance. You'll have to give them details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll then create keys that match your existing security chip. They'll also be able advise you on ways to prevent future key loss.

Verify Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).

In the past the idea of losing or misplacing your car keys wasn't a huge problem. You could simply call your local locksmith to have a new key made. As cars become more advanced, so too have their keys become more difficult and expensive to replace. That's why it's important to keep a spare key around or at the very least be aware of the price your car dealer will charge you to replace it if you lose one.

You must first see if the key is really missing. Check the pockets in 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 your purse or shoe. Look through your owner's manual to determine if there are any special instructions on how to reset the key in case it stops working.

If you've checked everything and still can't find your car keys, it's time to call an expert to request an alternative key. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional keys, key fobs, or switchblade) it could cost you anything from $50 to $200 to get new keys. If you own a traditional key, the locksmith will typically cut a new key and reprogram it to match your car. This is less expensive than the dealer's price, which could be as high as $320 to replace keys that have been lost.

For a key fob, or switchblade keys, you'll need to call your dealership and have your car towing in to purchase an additional key for your vehicle based on the VIN. They will then have to pair your new key to the vehicle electronically. This can be a costly and lengthy procedure. This is why it's a great idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you will have the assistance of a professional should you ever need to!

Make sure your vehicle's security is checked.

No secret is that many modern cars are equipped with sophisticated security features to protect the vehicle's content from theft. While these security features are generally beneficial, they can also make keys for cars more difficult to replace. It is still possible to obtain keys for replacement for these vehicles, but the process is more difficult and expensive. The exact cost will differ according to the type of key your car has, and this is something you need to be aware of prior to having one made.

The most straightforward type of car key to make a spare key for is the classic double-edged car key that can be purchased at any locksmith, hardware store, or car dealership. The price is typically less than $10 and will work perfectly as a backup key or to start your car in a dire situation. Modern models of cars, however incorporate transponder chips into the keys to control different aspects of the car, from locking and unlocking to switching on and turning off. The chips have to be programmed using a special machine that is available only in some dealerships.

When you need to make a spare for these more sophisticated automobiles, a locksmith in your area is likely to be able. They will need the model and year of the car as well as other information (like your registration number or your title) to confirm that they are the owner of the vehicle. Some locksmiths can make these keys on-site and save you the hassle of having to visit an agent.

The dealership is your best option if there isn't an extra. They are the best people to speak to since they know the car and the keys you need to start it. It can be costly and they won't be able to assist you on the road.

Try a Bluetooth key tracker as an affordable alternative. These devices clip onto your key ring and emit a signal you can then connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then provide you with the location of your keys, aiding you in finding them and prevent them from being lost a car key in the first place!

Find a new key

Everyone loses their car keys at one time or another. It happens at the most awkward times, like at a gas station or loading groceries into your trunk. It's not hard to find your keys, but it can be stressful if you don't have an extra set of keys at home or with a companion.

There are, however, options to obtain a new key if you have lost the original. The process varies depending on your type of key and the vehicle you are using.

For instance, if you have a key that fits into an ignition lock cylinder it's relatively simple to get a locksmith to make an immediate replacement. This is less than $200 and can be completed quicker than purchasing a new one from a dealer.

You'll need to go to the dealer if you have an electronic remote with an external transmitter. The dealership will be able locate your information and issue you the right key at a cheaper price than what you would pay for a locksmith.

A locksmith may also be able create keys for replacement with the help of the VIN of your vehicle, so long as you have evidence of ownership like your registration or title. This is a less expensive alternative than going to a dealer. However, it may not be feasible if your vehicle is newer or expensive.

It is advisable to have a spare set of keys. Keep it in a secure location, like your home and you won't need to think about leaving it in the event that you leave your vehicle. Be sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, particularly if you wear an outer garment or jacket that has large pockets. Examine places that you may not typically reach, such as the inside of your shoe in the event that 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 if someone drives away in your car.