How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

Every car owner loses their keys at some point or some other time. It happens more than people think however it can be a big hassle.

Fortunately, Replacing Lost Car Key lost key fob car keys can be relatively simple depending on the type of key you have. The most basic keys can usually be made at a local hardware store if you can provide the VIN number or proof of ownership.

Retract your steps

Losing your car keys can be frustrating, especially when it happens at a hectic time of day and you need to get somewhere. Fortunately, it's not the end of the world and there are a variety of steps you can take to assist you in finding the replacement car key you lost car keys with no spare.

The first thing you need to do is retrace your steps. You can do this by going back to the places where you've been and looking around, at both the workplace and at home. This will help you locate the keys by noting when you last seen them.

If you are unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll need to call a local locksmith or dealership for assistance. They will be able create an entirely new car key for you, and decode your existing locks so that only the key is able to start the vehicle. They'll also erase the old key, so that if someone does manage to get it, they aren't able to use your vehicle.

Before you speak to an expert locksmith or dealer, ensure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) available. This number is found on the driver's door panel or on the dashboard. It will inform them of the vehicle you own so they can create keys that match.

Making Use of Your Memory

You may be tempted to panic at the thought of losing your car keys however, be calm. This will help you think clearly and search more thoroughly. Close your eyes and relax. Then utilize your memory to remember the last time you viewed your keys. If you're unable to recall where you put your keys then retrace your steps and look for clues.

If you're unable to solve the problem, contact a local locksmith or dealership to get help. You'll be required to provide details about your vehicle and the security system it has and they'll be able create a replacement key that is compatible with your security chip. They'll also provide tips on how to avoid any future loss of keys.

Verify Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).

It wasn't too long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car were not a huge issue. Contact your local locksmith to find a replacement car key. As cars become more high-tech, so too have their keys becoming more expensive and difficult to replace. It's essential to have a spare car key or to be aware of the cost of replacing it in the event that you lose yours.

You must first determine if the key is really missing. This can be 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 car, and even checking places that you would not normally look like the inside of a shoe or purse. Look through your owner's manual to determine if there are specific instructions on how to reset your key in case it stops working.

If you've checked everything and you are still unable to locate your car keys, then it's time to call a professional to get a new key. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional or key fob, or switchblade) it could cost you anything from $50 to $200 to get new keys. If you own a traditional key, the locksmith can typically cut a new key and change it's programming to match your car. This is a less expensive alternative to paying the dealer, who could charge up to $320 for a new 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'll need to pair the new key to your vehicle's computer which could be a costly and lengthy procedure. It's a good idea to add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy to ensure that you receive assistance from a professional if needed!

Check your vehicle's security system

It's no secret that many modern cars come with fancy security features that help protect the contents of the car from theft. These features make it harder to replace the car keys. It is still possible to obtain an alternative key for these cars, but the process is more complex and expensive. The cost of a new key will depend on the type of vehicle you own. You should know this before ordering one.

The classic double-edged car key can be turned into a spare by visiting any hardware store or dealer. The cost is typically less than $10, and will work perfectly as a backup key to start your car in an urgent situation. More recent models of cars, however incorporate transponder chips into the keys to control various aspects of the vehicle from locking and unlocking to turning on and off. The chips have to be programmed using a special machine that is only available in some dealerships.

If you're in need of a spare for these more advanced models of cars, a locksmith local to you should be able to help. They'll need the model and year of the vehicle, along with some other details (like your registration number or your title) to prove that they are the owner of the vehicle. Some locksmiths can make keys on site and save you the hassle of having to visit dealers.

The dealership is your best option if you don't own an extra. They are the best place to ask because they know the vehicle and what keys you'll need to get started with it. This could be costly, however, and they will not be able to provide roadside assistance.

Try a Bluetooth key tracker as an alternative that is affordable. These devices are attached to your key ring, and emit an audio signal that you can then connect to an app on your smartphone. The app can then show you where your keys are, helping you locate them and prevent them from being lost keys to car in the first place!

Get a New Key

Everybody loses their keys at some moment in time. It happens at the most awkward times, like at a gas station, or loading groceries into your trunk. Although it's easy to locate your keys again, it can be a very stressful scenario if you don't have a spare set at home or with friends.

There are ways to get a replacement key in case you've lost key for car your original. The procedure will depend on the kind of key you have and the car you drive.

For instance, if you have a traditional key that fits into an ignition lock cylinder, it's relatively simple to get a locksmith to make an immediate replacement. This is less than $200 and can be completed much quicker than purchasing one from a dealer.

You'll need to visit the dealer if you have an electronic remote with an external transmitter. The dealer will be able locate your information, and will send you the right key at a cheaper price than what you would pay a locksmith.

If you have evidence of ownership, such as the title or registration, a locksmith may be able create keys using your VIN. This is a much less expensive alternative to visiting the dealership however, it's not always possible when you have a newer or more expensive car.

The best way to prevent losing your keys is having a spare. Place it in a secure location, like your home in order to not have to worry about putting it in a place when you leave your vehicle. Make 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 you'd never reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you are on runners. Make sure you check your trunk if have put your keys in there. It's easy for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be stolen if someone drives away in your vehicle.