Why Nobody Cares About Lost Car Key Replacement
How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
Everyone loses their car keys at one time or some other time. It happens more frequently than most people realize, and it can be a big problem.
Fortunately replacing car keys lost can be relatively simple, depending on what type of key you own. The most basic keys can be made at an area hardware store, provided you provide the VIN number or evidence of ownership.
Retract your Steps
Losing your car keys can be frustrating, especially when it happens at a hectic time of the day when you need to get somewhere. It's not the most unpleasant thing that could happen to you. There are many 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, both at home and work. This will give you an idea of the last place you recalled seeing your keys and can help you find the location they might be.
If you're still having trouble finding your car keys, contact a locksmith or a dealership in your area for help. They'll be able to create a new car keys for you, and also decode your locks to ensure that only the key is able to start the car. They'll also wipe the old key from your vehicle's system, meaning that even if someone does obtain it, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.
Before you speak to 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 it will allow them to know what vehicle you own so that they can make keys that match.
Memory Exercises
You may be tempted be scared of losing your car keys however, be calm. This will allow you to think clearly and thoroughly. Relax your eyes, close your eyes and use the power of your memory to recall the exact location you last found your car keys the last time. If you're struggling to remember where they were, go back your steps once more and look for any clues that might have surfaced.
If you're not getting any luck you can 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 create keys that match your security chip. They can also give you advice on how to prevent future key losses.
Verify Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).
In the past the idea of losing or misplacing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could call your local locksmith and get a new key made. As cars become more advanced, so too have their keys become more expensive and difficult to replace. It is essential to have an extra car key or to know the cost of replacing it in the event you lose yours.
The first thing to do when you lose a car key is to ensure that the lost key is not actually missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the jacket or pants you were wearing when you last used your car, or looking in the backseat of your car, and even checking areas you don't normally see 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 like how to reset it if it dies.
If you've checked everything and still haven't found your car keys, it's time to call an expert to request a new key. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional keys, key fobs, or switchblade) it can cost you between $50-$200 to purchase a new one. If you have a traditional key, you could get the locksmith to make a new key and reprogram it for your vehicle. This is a less expensive option than the dealer's price, which could be as high as $320 to replace keys that have been lost.
You'll need 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 connect the new key with your vehicle's electronic key this is a costly and time-consuming process. It's a great idea add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy to allow you to receive expert assistance if you need it!
Check Your Vehicle's Security System
There is no doubt that modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features to protect the vehicle's content from theft. These security features make it harder to replace keys for your car. It's still possible to get keys for replacement for these cars, however the process is more complicated and expensive. The exact cost will differ based on the type of key your car has, and this is something you need to be aware of before getting one made.
The most straightforward type of car key to make a spare 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 can be used as a backup key to start your car in a dire situation. The latest models of automobiles, however, incorporate transponder chips into the keys to control different aspects of the car including locking and unlocking to turning on and starting. These chips need to be programmed by a special machine, which is typically only available at some dealerships.
A locksmith in your area can assist you if you need an extra key for these vehicles. They will need to know the model and year of your vehicle as well as other information to verify that you are the owner (like the registration number of your car or title). Certain locksmiths can create these keys on the spot and save you the hassle of having to visit an agent.
The dealership is the best option if there isn't an extra. They'll be the most knowledgeable about your car's model and the keys needed to get it started. It can be costly, and they will not be available for roadside assistance.
Try an Bluetooth key tracker as an alternative that is affordable. These devices are attached to your key ring, emitting an audio signal that you can then connect with an app on your smartphone. The app will then show you the location of your keys, helping you to find the keys and preventing them from being lost in the first place!
Find a New Key
Everybody loses their keys at some moment in time. It could happen at the most inconvenient times, such as at a gas station or loading groceries into your trunk. It's not difficult to locate your keys, but it is stressful if you do not have an extra set of keys at home or with a friend.
There are still ways to obtain a replacement key if you've lost your original. The process depends on the type of key you have and the vehicle you are using.
For example, if you have a key that fits into an ignition lock cylinder it's easy to have a locksmith create an immediate replacement. This will cost less than $200 and is quicker than purchasing a new one from a dealer.
You'll need to go to the dealer if you have an electronic remote with an external transmitter. The dealer will be able locate your details and provide you with the right key at a lower cost than for a locksmith.
If you have evidence of ownership, such as an official title or registration or a certificate of ownership, a locksmith might be able to make an entirely new key with your VIN. This is a much cheaper alternative to visiting a dealership. However, it may not be feasible when your car is older or expensive.
lost key to my car is best to have a spare set of keys. Place it in a secure location, such as your home, so that you don't need to think about leaving it in the event that you leave your vehicle. It's also important to inspect the pockets and purses frequently especially if you're wearing a jacket or coat with large pockets. Examine places that you may not usually reach, such as the inside of your shoe if you wear runners. Finally, be sure to double-check the trunk of your car if you put keys there. It's easy for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be stolen when someone steals your vehicle.