How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
It's a fact that we all lose car keys at some moment in time. It happens more often than people think, however, and it can be a major hassle.
Fortunately, replacing lost car keys is fairly simple, depending on what type of key you own. 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
It's frustrating to lose your car keys, especially when it happens during a hectic time of the day when you need to be somewhere. It's not the most frustrating thing that can happen. There are several ways to locate your car key replacement.
You should first retrace all your steps. You can do this by going back to the places you've been and taking a look around, both at the workplace and at home. This will help you find the keys, noting when you last was able to see them.
If you are still unable to locate your car keys, you can call a locksmith or dealership in your area for help. They'll be able create a 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, so should someone manage to obtain it and steal it, they won't be allowed to drive your vehicle.
Before you contact a locksmith or dealer, make sure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) available. It's located on your driver's door panel or dashboard, and it will let them know which car you own so they can design keys that match.
Memory Exercises
You may be tempted fear losing your car keys, but try to remain calm. This will help you think clearly and look more thoroughly. Relax your eyes, close your eyes and make use of your memory to recall the location where you last saw your car keys last. If you are unable to remember the location of your keys, retrace the steps and search for clues.
If you're still having trouble, contact an authorized locksmith or a dealership in your area for help. They'll require specific details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll then create an original key that matches your existing security chip. They'll also be able to give you tips on how to avoid future key losses.
Make sure you have a valid vehicle Identification (VIN).
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing or losing your car keys was not a huge issue. You could just contact 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 more expensive. That's why it's important to keep an extra key in your car or at a minimum, know how much the dealership for your car will charge you to replace it if you lose one.
It is important to first see if the key is really missing. This can be done by checking the pockets of the pants or jacket you wore when you last used your car, or looking at the back of your car or even looking in places you wouldn't usually look like the inside of a shoe or a purse. Also, you should go through your owner's manual and determine if there are specific instructions for the kind of key you own for example, how to reset it if it goes dead.
If you've tried everything but still can't find your car keys, then it's time to call a professional to get a new key. The cost of a new one will range from $50 to $200, based on the kind you have. If you have a standard key, the locksmith will usually cut a new one and reprogram it to match your car. This is less expensive than the dealer's prices which can be as much as $320 to replace keys that have been lost.
For a key fob, or switchblade keys, you'll need to contact your dealer and have your car towed in for them to purchase an additional key for your vehicle based on the VIN. Then, they'll have to connect the new key to your vehicle's electronic key, which could be a costly and lengthy procedure. It's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to your policy so that you can receive expert assistance if you need it!
Check the security system of your car.
There is no doubt that modern cars are equipped with advanced security features that safeguard the contents of the car from thieves. These features make it harder to replace car keys. However, it's not impossible to get a new key for these cars although the process is more involved and expensive than in the past. The exact cost will vary based on the type of key your vehicle uses, which you should be aware of prior to getting one made.
The easiest kind of car key to make a spare for is the classic double-edged key that can be replaced at any hardware store, locksmith or car dealership. It typically costs less than $10 and serve as a backup or to start the car in an emergency. Transponder chips are used in more recent models of car keys to control different aspects of the vehicle, like locking and unlocking, turning off and on, and other functions. The chips have to be programmed with a specific machine that is only available in some dealerships.
When you need to make an extra for these more advanced types of cars, a locksmith local to you should be able to help. They will need to know the year and model of your vehicle and other information to verify that you are the owner (like your car registration number or title). Some locksmiths can make these keys on the spot, saving you time from needing to visit an agent.
If you don't have a spare car, the alternative is to go to the dealership. They are the most familiar with your specific car and the keys that are required to get it running. It can be expensive and they may not be able to provide roadside assistance.
To get a more affordable alternative, consider a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices are attached to your key ring and emit a signal you can then connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then inform you where your keys are located, helping you find them and preventing them from being lost in the first place!
Get a New Key
Every car owner loses their keys at some point or another. It could happen at the most inconvenient times, such as at a gas station or loading groceries into your trunk. Although g28carkeys.co.uk to find your keys again, it can be a very stressful scenario if you don't have an extra set at home or with friends.
There are still ways to obtain a replacement key if you've lost your original. The process is different based on your type of key and the vehicle you are using.
If you have an ignition lock key that is a cylinder, like, it is relatively easy to have a locksmith local to make a replacement right on the spot. This is less than $200 and is often quicker than getting one from a dealership.
If you have a key fob equipped with an external transmitter, you'll have to visit the dealer. The dealer will find your information and will send you the right key for a lower cost than you would pay to a locksmith.
A locksmith might also be able to make an alternative key using your car's VIN, as long as you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title. This is a much cheaper alternative than going to a dealer. However, it might not be possible when your car is older or expensive.
It is recommended to have a spare set of keys. Place it in a secure location, like your home, so that you don't have to worry about leaving it somewhere when you leave your vehicle. Check your pockets and purses frequently, particularly if you wear 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 if you are on runners. Double-check your trunk if you have left keys in there. It's easy to forget you put them there, and they can easily get stolen if a driver leaves in your car.