How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
Everyone loses their car keys at one time or some other time. It happens more frequently than people think and is a huge hassle.
It is possible to replace lost car keys depending on the type of key that you have. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership then you can get the most basic keys at the local hardware store.
Retract your steps
It's a hassle to lose your car keys, especially if it happens during a hectic time of the day when you have to go somewhere. It's not the most frustrating thing in the world. There are a variety of ways to find your car key replacement.
You must first retrace your steps. This means going back through the places you've been and looking around at home and work. This will give you an idea of where you recalled seeing your keys and could help you find the location they might be.
If you're unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll need to call a local locksmith or dealership for assistance. They'll be able to create the new key for you and also decode the existing locks on your vehicle so that only the new key is able to start it. They'll also remove the old key so that if anyone does manage to get it, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.
Before you speak to an expert locksmith or dealer, ensure you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) handy. It's located on your driver's side dashboard or door panel and will let them know which vehicle you own so that they can design keys that match.
Utilizing Your Memory
If you've lost your car keys, you may be anxious. Try to keep your cool. This will enable you to concentrate and search thoroughly. 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 difficulty remembering where they were, go back your steps once more and look for any clues that may have surfaced.
If you're still having issues, contact an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area for help. You'll need to provide them with details about your vehicle and the security system it has and they'll be able to make a replacement key that can be paired with your existing security chip. They can also give you tips on how to avoid any future loss of keys.
Make sure you have a valid vehicle Identification (VIN).
In the past losing or misplacing car keys wasn't a huge problem. You could just contact your local locksmith and have a new key made. But as cars have become more advanced, so too have their keys becoming more expensive and difficult to replace. This is why it's crucial to always have a spare key around or at the very least know the amount your car dealership will charge you for a replacement in the event that you lose one.
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 that you may not normally look like the inside of a purse or shoe. Look through your owner's manual to determine if it contains specific instructions on how to reset your key if it becomes dead.
If you've checked everything and still can't locate your car keys, it is time to get a professional for the replacement. Depending on lost keys to car of key you own (traditional keys, key fobs, or switchblade) it can cost you anything from $50 to $200 to get new keys. If you have an old-fashioned key, you could have the locksmith simply cut a new one and reprogram it for your vehicle. This is a less expensive option than the dealer's prices 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 contact your dealer and have the car towed in for them to request an additional key for your vehicle based on the VIN. They'll then need to connect your new key with the vehicle electronically. This could be a costly and time-consuming procedure. This is why it's a good idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you can get the assistance of an expert if you ever need to!
Check the security system of your car.
There is no doubt that modern cars are equipped with sophisticated security features to protect the vehicle's content from thieves. While these features are usually an excellent thing however, they can make keys for cars more difficult to replace. Fortunately, it's not impossible to find a new key for these vehicles, though the process is more involved and costly than it was in the past. The exact cost will vary according to the type of key your car is using, and you must be aware of prior to having one made.
The classic car key with a double edge can be made into a spare by visiting any hardware store or dealership. The price is typically less than $10, and it can be used as a backup key or to start your car in an urgent situation. Transponder chips are employed in more recent models of keys to control various aspects of the vehicle, like locking and unlocking, switching off and on, and other functions. These chips must be programmed with a specific machine that is available only in some dealerships.
If you're looking to create an additional spare for these advanced models of automobiles, a locksmith in your area will be able to assist. They will need to know the model and year of your car, as well as some other details to confirm that you're the owner (like the registration number on your car or title). Some locksmiths can make these keys on the spot and save you the hassle of needing to visit dealers.
The dealership is the best option if you don't own a spare. They are the best place to talk to because they are familiar with the vehicle and what keys you'll need to get started with it. It can be costly and they won't be able to assist you on the road.
To get a more affordable alternative, you can try a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices connect to your key ring, and emit a signal you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app can then show you where your keys are located, aiding you in finding them and prevent them from getting lost in the first place!
Find a New Key
Everyone loses their car keys at one time or another. It can happen at the most awkward of places, such as at a petrol station or while loading groceries into your trunk. Although related web-site to find your keys again, it can be a stressful experience in the event that you don't have a spare set at home or with your friends.
Fortunately, there are still options to obtain an alternative key even if you've lost your original. The procedure varies based on the type of key and vehicle.
If you have an ignition lock cylinder key, for example, it is relatively easy to have a locksmith local to make a replacement immediately. This option costs less than $200, and it's usually quicker than buying one from a dealership.
If you have a key fob with an external transmitter, however you'll need to visit the dealer. The dealership will be able locate your information and send you the correct key for a much lower price than what you would pay when you visit a locksmith.
If lost key of car have evidence of ownership such as a registration or title or registration, a locksmith might be able create keys using your VIN. This is a cheaper alternative to visiting an auto dealer however it's not always feasible if you own a brand new or more expensive vehicle.
It is best to have a spare set keys. Place it in a safe place, such as your home, so that you don't have to worry about losing it if you leave your vehicle. Make sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, particularly if you wear a coat or jacket with large pockets. Be sure to check places you wouldn't typically reach, such as the inside of your shoes in the event that you wear runners. Check your trunk to see if you have put your keys in there. It's easy to forget you put them there, and they're easily stolen if someone else drives off in your car.