Why Nobody Cares About Lost Car Key Replacement
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 problem.
It is possible to replace lost car keys depending on the type of key that you have. The most basic keys can usually be made at a local hardware store if you have the VIN number or proof of ownership.
Retract your steps
It's a hassle to lose your car keys, especially if it happens during a busy period of the day when you need to be somewhere. It's not the end of the world and there are a variety of steps you can take to help you locate your car key replacement.
It is recommended to retrace your steps. This means going back through the places you've been to and taking a look around, both at home and work. This will help you locate the keys by noting the last time you saw them.
If you still can't locate your car keys, contact an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area for help. They'll be able create an entirely new key for you and decode the locks that are already in your vehicle so that only the new key will be able to start it. They'll also erase the old key, so that if someone does manage to steal it, they aren't able to drive your vehicle.
Before you call a locksmith or dealer make sure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) in your pocket. The VIN is on the door of the driver or on the dashboard. It will allow them to know what vehicle you own so they can create a key that matches.
Using Your Memory
You may be tempted to be scared of losing your car keys however, be calm. This will help you think clearly and look more deeply. Close your eyes, relax and make use of your memory to recall where you saw your car keys last. If you're struggling to remember where they were, retrace your steps and search for any clues that might have been discovered.
If you're unable to solve the problem you can contact a local locksmith or dealer for assistance. You'll need to provide them with details about your car and the security system that it uses and they'll be able to create a new key that will pair with your security chip. They'll also be able to give you suggestions on how to prevent the loss of your keys in the future.
Check Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).
It wasn't long ago that losing keys to your car were not a huge problem. Call your local locksmith to find a replacement car key. As cars become more technological and sophisticated, so have their keys become more difficult and expensive to replace. This is why it's crucial to keep a spare key on hand or at a minimum, know the amount the dealership for your car will charge you to replace it if you lose one.
You should first check to determine if the key is really missing. This is done by checking the pockets of the pants or jacket that you wore last time you used your car, looking inside the back seat of your vehicle as well as checking out places you wouldn't usually look like the inside of a shoe or a purse. It is also advisable to check your owner's manual to find out if there are specific instructions for the type of key you own, such as how to reset it if it becomes dead.
If you have checked everything and still can't locate your car keys, it's time to call an expert for the replacement. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional keys, key fobs, or switchblade), it will cost you between $50 to $200 to buy new keys. If you own a traditional key, you can usually 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 could charge up to $320 for a replacement key.
You'll need to contact your dealer and get your vehicle towing by them to allow them to obtain a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. They will then have to pair your new key with the vehicle electronically. This could be costly and a lengthy process. It's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy so that you can receive assistance from a professional if needed!
Make sure your vehicle's security is checked.
No secret is that many modern vehicles are fitted with advanced security features that ensure that the car's contents are safe from thieves. These features make it harder to replace car keys. There is still a possibility of getting a replacement key for these vehicles, but the process is more complicated and costly. The cost of the new key will be contingent on the kind of vehicle you have. It is essential to know this before ordering one.
The easiest kind of car key to make a spare key for is the classic double-edged car key which can be re-used at any hardware store, locksmith or car dealership. The cost is typically less than $10 and can be used as a backup key to start your car in an emergency situation. More recent models of cars, however utilize transponder chips inside the keys to control various aspects of the car, from locking and unlocking to switching on and turning off. These chips need to be programmed with a specific device that is only available at certain dealerships.
A locksmith near you can assist you if you require a spare key for these advanced cars. They will need to know the model and year of your car, as well as some other details to prove that you are the owner (like your car registration number or title). Some locksmiths are capable of making keys on the spot and save you the hassle of going to a dealer.
The dealership is the best option if you don't own spare. They are the most familiar with your specific car and the keys that are required to start it. This can be expensive, but they won't be available for assistance at the roadside.
Try an Bluetooth key tracker for an affordable alternative. These devices attach to your key ring, emitting an audio signal that you can then connect with an app on your smartphone. The app will show you where your keys are, helping you find them and preventing them from getting lost in the first place!
Get a new key
Everyone loses their car keys at one point or another. It can happen at the most unavoidable of situations such as at a gasstation or when loading groceries into your trunk. Although it's simple to find your keys again, this can be a very stressful situation when you don't have a spare set in your home or with your friends.
There are still options to obtain an alternative key even if you've lost your original. The process varies depending on your type of key and the vehicle you are using.
For instance, if have a traditional key that is inserted into an ignition lock cylinder it's relatively simple to have a locksmith create a replacement on the spot. This will cost less than $200 and is quicker than purchasing a new one from a dealer.
If you have a key fob that has an external transmitter, however you'll need to visit the dealer. The dealership will be able to find your details and provide you with the correct key for a much lower price than you would pay if you went to locksmith.
A locksmith might also be able to create an alternative key by using the VIN number of your car, as you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title. This is a much less expensive alternative to going to an auto dealer however it's not always feasible if you own 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, such as your home, so you don't have to be concerned about losing it when you leave your car. Be sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, particularly if you wear a coat or jacket with large pockets. Don't forget to look at places you'd never reach, like the inside of your shoes if you have on runners. Make sure you check your trunk if have put your keys in there. homepage to forget you put them in there and they could easily be stolen if a driver leaves in your car.