A. The Most Common Lost Car Key Replacement Debate Could Be As Black And White As You Might Think
How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
Every car owner loses their keys at some point or some other time. It happens more often than people think however it can be a big hassle.
It is possible to replace lost car keys depending on the type of key you have. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership, you can get the most basic keys made at your local hardware store.
Retract Your Steps
Losing your car keys can be frustrating, especially when it happens at a busy time of the day when you have to go somewhere. Fortunately, 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 must first retrace your steps. You can do this by returning to the places you've been and looking around, at both your home and work. This will help you find the keys, noting the last time you was able to see them.
If you are unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps you'll need to contact a local locksmith or dealership for assistance. They'll be able to make the new key for you, and decode the locks that are already in your vehicle, so that only the new key is able to start it. They'll also remove the old key to ensure that if anyone manages to steal it, they can't drive your vehicle.
Before you call an expert locksmith or dealer, make sure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) in your pocket. This is a number that's located on your driver's door panel or dashboard and will allow them to know what vehicle you own so that they can design a new key to match.
Memory Exercises
If you've lost your car keys, you could be anxious. Try to keep your cool. This will allow you to concentrate and search thoroughly. Close your eyes, relax and make use of your memory to recall the exact location you last saw your car keys last. If you can't remember where your keys were then retrace your steps and search for clues.
If you're unable to solve the problem, contact a local locksmith or dealership to get help. You'll have to give them details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll be able to create keys that match the security chip you have already installed. They'll also be able to guide you on steps to prevent key loss.
Make sure you have a valid vehicle Identification (VIN).
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car were not a big problem. Contact your local locksmith to find a replacement car key. As cars become more high-tech, so too have their keys, making them more expensive and difficult to replace. This is why it's crucial to always keep a spare key around, or at least be aware of the price your car dealer will charge for a replacement in the event that you lose one.
The first thing to do when you lose your car keys is to confirm that the lost key is not actually missing. Check the pockets of your pants or jacket along with the backseat and other places you may not normally go, such as the inside of your shoe or purse. Go through the owner's manual to see if it has specific instructions on how to reset your key if it becomes dead.
If you've done everything you can and still can't find the car keys, then it's time to call an expert to obtain an alternative key. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional keys, key fobs, or switchblade) it can cost you anything from $50-$200 to purchase new keys. If you own a traditional key, a locksmith can typically cut a new key and change it's programming to work with your vehicle. This is a cheaper alternative than paying the dealer, who may charge up to $320 for a new key.
For a key fob, or switchblade key, you'll need to call your dealership and have the car towing in to request the new key for your vehicle that is based on the VIN. Then, lost keys in car 'll have to connect the new key with your vehicle's electronic key which can be an expensive and lengthy process. This is why it's a good idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you will have the assistance of a professional if you ever require it!
Verify the security system of your vehicle.
There is no doubt that modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features to safeguard the contents of the car from theft. Although these features are typically a good thing, they can also make keys for the car more difficult to replace. It is still possible to obtain an alternative key for these cars, but the process is more difficult and costly. The cost of the new key will be contingent on the kind of vehicle you have. You should know this before ordering one.
The classic double-edged car key can be turned into a spare key at any hardware store or at a dealership. It typically costs less than $10 and serve as a backup or to start the car in case of emergency. Transponder chips are employed in the most recent models of keys to control various aspects of the vehicle, including locking and unlocking, switching off and on, as well as other functions. These chips need to be programmed using a special machine that is available only in some dealerships.
A locksmith in your area can assist you with a spare key for these advanced cars. They will require 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. Some locksmiths will be capable of making keys in-person which will save you the hassle of having to visit a dealer.
The dealership is your best option if you don't have spare. They are the best place to speak to since they know the car and the keys you need to start it. It could be costly and they may not be available for roadside assistance.
To get a more affordable alternative, try using a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices attach to your key ring and emit a signal that you can 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 getting lost in the first instance!
Get a New Key
Everybody loses their keys at some point. It can happen at the most unavoidable of situations like at a gasstation or when loading groceries into your car. Although it's simple to find your keys once again, this can be a very stressful situation when you don't have a spare set at home or with friends.
There are still options to obtain an alternative key in the event that you've lost the original. The process depends on the type of key you own and the car you drive.
If you have an ignition lock key that is a cylinder, like, it is relatively easy to have a locksmith local to create a new one on the spot. This is less than $200, and it's usually quicker than buying one from the dealer.
You'll need to visit the dealer if you have an electronic remote with an external transmitter. The dealership will be able locate your details and provide you with the right key at a cheaper price than you would pay if you went to an locksmith.
A locksmith may also be able to create a replacement key by using your car's VIN, as long as you have evidence of ownership like your registration or title. This is a much less expensive alternative to visiting an auto dealer however it's not always feasible if you have a newer or more expensive vehicle.
The best way to avoid losing your keys is by having an extra. Keep it in a secure location, like your home and you won't have to worry about leaving it in the event that you leave your vehicle. Be sure to check your purses and pockets often, especially if you wear 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. Also, make sure to double-check the trunk of your car, if you've put keys there. It's easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be taken if someone drives away in your vehicle.