how to replace lost car key to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
It’s a fact of life that everyone loses car keys at some point. It happens more frequently than people think and can be a big inconvenience.
Fortunately replacing car keys lost is relatively easy depending on the kind of key you have. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership then you can get the most basic keys made at your local hardware store.
Retract Your Steps
Losing your car keys can be stressful, especially if it happens at a hectic time of the day when you have to go somewhere. It’s not the worst thing that could happen to you. There are several ways to locate your car key replacement.
It is recommended to retrace your steps. This involves going back through the places you’ve been and taking a look around at home as well as at work. This will help you find the keys, letting you know when you last saw them.
If you are unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps you’ll want to call an area locksmith or dealership to get help. They will be able create an entirely new car key for you, and decode your existing locks so that only the key will be able to start the car. They’ll also wipe the old key out of the system of your vehicle, so should someone manage to gain access to it and steal it, they won’t be allowed to drive your vehicle.
Before you call a locksmith or dealer ensure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) handy. This is the number located on your driver’s side dashboard or door and will let them know which car you own so they can make an appropriate key for your vehicle.
Memory Exercises
If you’ve lost your car keys, you may be anxious. Try to remain calm. This will allow you to concentrate and search thoroughly. Close your eyes, relax and use the power of your memory to recall the exact location you last were last able to see your car keys. If you’re having trouble remembering where they were, retrace your steps and search for any clues that could have been discovered.
If you’re not getting any luck, contact a local locksmith or dealer for assistance. You’ll have to give them information about your vehicle as well as its security system. They’ll then create an original key that matches your existing security chip. They’ll also be able advise you on steps to prevent key loss.
Check Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).
It wasn’t long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big issue. Call your local locksmith and get a new car key. But as cars have become more technological, so too have their keys, making them more difficult and expensive to replace. It’s essential to have an extra car key, or to be aware of the cost of replacing it in the event you lose yours.
The first thing you need to do when you lose your car keys is to confirm that the lost key is indeed missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the pants or jacket you wore when you last used your car, looking inside the back seat of your vehicle, and even checking areas you don’t normally see like the inside of a shoe or purse. You should also go through your owner’s manual and find out if there are special instructions for the kind of key you have like how to reset it in case it dies.
If you have checked all the possibilities but are still unable to locate your car keys, it’s time to call an expert for the replacement. The cost of a new key can vary from $50 to more than $200 depending on the type you have. If you own an old-fashioned key, you can get the locksmith to cut a new key and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is a much cheaper alternative to paying a dealer, who can charge up to $320 for a replacement key.
You’ll have to contact your dealer and get your vehicle towing to them so they can order a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. Then, they will have to pair the new key to your vehicle’s computer which could be a costly and lengthy procedure. It’s a good idea to include Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to your policy to ensure that you receive expert assistance if you need it!
Check your vehicle’s security system
It’s no secret that many modern cars are equipped with sophisticated security features to ensure that the car’s contents are safe from theft. These features can make it more difficult to replace keys for your car. However, it’s not impossible to find a new key for these cars, though the process is more complicated and expensive than in the past. The exact cost will vary based on the kind of key your vehicle has, and this is something you need to be aware of prior to getting one made.
The classic double-edged car key can be converted into a spare at any hardware store or dealership. It will typically cost less than $10 and will serve as a backup or to start the car in the event of an emergency. Modern models of cars, however utilize transponder chips inside the keys to control different aspects of the vehicle from locking and unlocking to turning on and starting. These chips need to be programmed with a specific machine that is available only at certain dealerships.
When you need to make a spare for these more sophisticated cars, a locksmith local to you is likely to be able. They’ll need the model and year of your car as well as other details to confirm that you’re the owner (like the registration number on your car or title). Certain locksmiths are able to make keys on the spot which will save you the hassle of having to visit a dealer.
If you do not have a spare, the next best option is the dealership. They are the best person to talk to because they are familiar with your car and what keys you need to start it. It can be expensive and they won’t be able to assist you on the road.
Try a Bluetooth key tracker as an alternative that is affordable. These devices attach to your key ring and emit a signal you can connect to an app on your phone. The app will then inform you where your keys are located, helping you find them, and stop them from being lost spare car key in the first place!
Get a New Key
Everybody loses their keys at some point. It could happen at the most awkward times, like at a station or loading groceries into your trunk. It’s not difficult to locate your keys, car keys lost but it is stressful if you don’t have a spare set of keys at home or with a friend.
Fortunately, there are still options for you to get new keys if you have lost the original. The process depends on the kind of key you have and your vehicle.
If you own an ignition lock cylinder key, for example it’s relatively simple to get a locksmith in your area to make a new one on the spot. This will cost less than $200 and can be completed much quicker than purchasing one from a dealer.
You’ll need to go to the dealer if you own an electronic remote with an external transmitter. The dealer will be able to locate your information, and will send you the right key for a lower cost than you would pay to locksmith.
If you have proof of ownership, like the title or registration or registration, a locksmith might be able create a new key using your VIN. This is a much cheaper alternative than going to a dealer. However, it might not be possible when your car is older or has a high price.
The best way to prevent losing your keys is by having an extra. Keep it in a safe location, such as your home, so you don’t need to be concerned about losing it when you leave your car. Be sure to check your purses and pockets often, especially if you wear an outer garment or jacket that has large pockets. Don’t forget to look at places that you would not normally reach, like the inside of your shoes, especially if you’re on runners. Make sure you check your trunk if have left keys in there. It’s easy to forget that you put them in there and they can easily get stolen if someone else takes off in your vehicle.