Lost Car Key Replacement: A Simple Definition

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, but it is a huge 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 a local hardware store if you can provide the VIN number or proof of ownership.

Retract your Steps

Losing your car keys is stressful, especially if it happens at a busy time of the day and you need to get somewhere. It's not the most frustrating thing in the world. There are several ways to locate your car key replacement.

The first thing to do is to retrace your steps. This can be done by going back to the places you've been to and taking a look around, at both the workplace and at home. This will give you a good idea of the last place you recalled seeing your keys and could lead you to where they might be.

If you are unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll want to call a local locksmith or dealership to get help. They'll be able create an entirely new key for you and decode the locks on your vehicle so that only the new key will be able to start it. They'll also erase the old key off the system of your vehicle, so even if someone does obtain it and steal it, they won't be allowed to drive your vehicle.

Make sure you have your VIN in hand before contacting an agent or locksmith. This is the number located on your driver's door panel or dashboard and will allow them to know what car you drive so they can make an appropriate key for your vehicle.

Memory Exercises

You may be tempted panic at the thought of losing your car keys however, keep your cool. This will allow you to think clearly and thoroughly. Relax your eyes, close your eyes and make use of your memory to remember the location where you last found your car keys the last time. If you can't remember where your keys were then retrace your steps and look for clues.

If you're having no luck, contact a local locksmith or dealership for assistance. You'll have to give them details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll then be able create a new key that matches your existing security chip. They'll also advise you on ways to prevent future key loss.

Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car were not a huge issue. You could just call your local locksmith and have a new key made. As cars have become more sophisticated and so have their keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and also more expensive. This is why it's crucial to always keep a spare key around or at the very least be aware of the price your car dealer will charge you for a replacement if you lose one.

The first thing you need to do when you lose your car keys is to make sure that the key you lost is indeed missing. Check the pockets in your pants or jacket along with the backseat and other places that you may not normally check like the inside of your shoe or purse. Check your owner's guide to see if it has specific instructions on how to reset the key in case it stops working.

If you've checked everything and still haven't found your car keys, then 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 get new keys. If you own a traditional key, the locksmith will usually cut a new one and reprogram it to work with your vehicle. This is a less expensive option than the dealer's price which can cost as much as $320 to replace keys that have been lost.

If you want a key fob or switchblade key, you'll have to contact your dealer and have your vehicle towed to them to purchase the new key for your vehicle based on the VIN. They'll then need to connect your new key with the vehicle electronically. This could be costly and a lengthy procedure. This is why it's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance, so you can have the help of a professional if you ever need it!

Make sure your vehicle's security is checked.

No secret is that many modern vehicles come with advanced security features that ensure that the car's contents are safe from thieves. Although these features are typically beneficial, they can also make the car keys more difficult to replace. There is still a possibility of getting keys for replacement for these vehicles, but the process is more complex and expensive. The exact cost will vary according to the kind of key your vehicle uses, which you should be aware of prior to getting one made.

The most straightforward type of car key to create a spare key for is the classic double-edged key that can be purchased at any hardware store, locksmith or car dealership. The cost is usually less than $10, and it will work perfectly as a backup key or to start your car in an emergency situation. Modern models of automobiles, however, incorporate transponder chips into the keys to control various aspects of the vehicle, from locking and unlocking to switching on and turning off. These chips need to be programmed with a special machine, which is usually only available at certain dealerships.

When you need to make a spare for these more sophisticated cars, a local locksmith should be able to help. They will require the model and year of the vehicle as well as other details (like your registration number or your title) to verify that they are the owner of the vehicle. Certain locksmiths can create these keys on-site, saving you time from needing to visit dealers.

If you don't have a spare, the next best option is the dealership. They'll be the most knowledgeable about your specific car and the keys that are required to get it running. It can be costly, and they will not be able to assist you on the road.

For a much more affordable alternative, consider a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices connect to your key ring, and emit signals that you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then inform you where your keys are, helping you find them and preventing them from getting lost in the first place!

Find a New Key

Every car owner loses their keys at one point or another. It could happen at the most awkward times, like at a station or loading groceries into your trunk. It's not hard to locate your keys, but it can be stressful if you do not have a spare set of keys at home or with a buddy.

There are still alternatives to purchase a new key if you have lost the original. The process is different based on the type of key and vehicle.

For instance, if have a key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder it's relatively simple to get a locksmith to make an immediate replacement.  lost my car key and have no spare  will cost less than $200 and is often quicker than getting one from the dealership.

You'll need to visit the dealer if you have an electronic remote with an external transmitter. The dealer will identify your details, and send you the correct key for a lower cost than what you would pay locksmith.

A locksmith may also be able to make keys for replacement using the VIN number of your car, as you have evidence of ownership like your registration or title. This is a much less expensive alternative to visiting an auto dealer, but it's not always possible if you own a brand new or more expensive vehicle.

lost my car key and have no spare  to avoid losing your keys is having a spare. Place it in a secure location, like your home, so that you don't have to worry about leaving it in the event that you leave your vehicle. It's also important to check the pockets and purses frequently especially if you're wearing a coat or jacket with large pockets. Don't forget to check places that you would not normally reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you have on runners. Finally, be sure to double-check the trunk of your car if you have put keys there. It's easy to forget you put them there, and they're easily taken away if someone else leaves in your car.