How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
It's a fact that everyone loses car keys at some point. It happens more frequently than people realize, however, and it can be a major problem.
It is possible to replace lost car keys dependent on the type of key that you own. The most basic keys can be made at an area hardware store, provided you have the VIN number or proof of ownership.
Retract your steps
Losing your car keys can be difficult, especially when it happens at a hectic time of the day when you have to go somewhere. Fortunately, it's not the end of the world and there are a number of ways you can help you locate your lost car key replacement.
The first thing you need to do is to retrace your steps. You can do this by going back to the places you've been and looking around, both at your home and work. This will help you locate the keys, letting you know where you last saw them.
If you can't find your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll need to call a local locksmith or dealership to get help. They will be able create a new car keys for you, and also decode your locks to ensure that only the key can start the car. They'll also remove the old key from your vehicle's system, meaning that even if someone does obtain it, they won't be able to drive your car.
Be sure to have your VIN on hand before you contact a dealer or locksmith. This number is found on the driver's door panel or on the dashboard. It will allow them to know what vehicle you own so they can create keys that match.
Memory Exercises
You may be tempted fear losing your car keys, but try to remain calm. This will allow you to concentrate and conduct a thorough search. Close your eyes, relax and utilize the power of your memory to remember where you found your car keys the last time. If you can't remember where your keys were, retrace the steps and look for clues.
If you're not getting any luck try contacting a locksmith in your area or dealer for assistance. You'll have to provide them with details about your vehicle and the security system it has, and they'll create a new key that will pair with your existing security chip. They can also give you advice on how to prevent any future loss of keys.
Verify Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
It wasn't long ago that losing keys to your car was not a huge problem. You could just contact your local locksmith and have a new key made. As cars become more sophisticated, so have their keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and more expensive. It's important to have a spare car key or to be aware of the cost of a replacement in case you lose yours.
The first thing to do when you lose your car keys is to ensure that the key you lost is indeed missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the clothing you wore 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 purse. You should also go through your owner's manual and find out if there are specific instructions for the kind of key you have like how to reset it in the event that it becomes dead.
If you've done everything you can and still can't find your car keys, then you should contact an expert to obtain an alternative key. The cost of a new key will range from $50 to $200 based on the type you own. If you have a standard key, a locksmith can typically cut a new key and reprogram it to work with your vehicle. This is a cheaper option than the dealer's price which can cost as much as $320 to replace a lost key.
You'll need to contact your dealer and have your vehicle towed for them to purchase a new VIN-based keys for your vehicle. Then, they'll have to pair the new key to your vehicle's electronic key, which is a costly and time-consuming process. This is why it's a good idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance policy, so that you can have the help of a professional should you ever need it!
Make sure your vehicle's security system is working
It's not a secret that many modern cars come with fancy security features designed to keep the contents of the vehicle safe from theft. While these features are usually an excellent thing but they can also make keys for the car more difficult to replace. There is still a possibility of getting an alternative key for these vehicles, but the process is more difficult and costly. The cost of a new key will vary on the kind of vehicle you own. You should be aware of this prior to purchasing one.
The easiest type of car key to create a spare key for is the classic double-edged car key that can be purchased at any locksmith, hardware store or car dealership. It typically costs less than $10 and will work just fine as a backup or to start the car in an emergency. The latest models of cars, however use transponder chips in the keys to control various aspects of the car from locking and unlocking to switching on and turning off. The chips have to be programmed with a specific machine that is only available at certain dealerships.
When you need to make a spare for these more advanced models of cars, a local locksmith will be able to assist. They will need the model and year of the car and other details (like your registration number or title) to verify that they are the owner of the vehicle. Certain locksmiths are able to make keys on the spot which will save you the hassle of having to visit an agent.
If you don't have a spare car, the alternative is to go to the dealership. They are the best person to talk to because they are familiar with the car and the keys you'll need to get started with it. This could be costly but they won't be able to provide assistance on the road.
Try a Bluetooth key tracker as an alternative that is affordable. These devices attach to your key ring and emit signals that you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will display the whereabouts of your keys, helping you to find them and preventing them from getting lost in the first place!
Get a New Key
Everybody loses their keys at some point. It can happen at the most inconvenient times, while at a gas station or loading groceries into your trunk. Although it's simple to locate your keys again, it can be a very stressful situation when you don't have an extra set at home or with your family.
There are, however, options for you to get an alternative key in the event that you've lost the original. The procedure is dependent on the kind of key you have and your vehicle.
For instance, if you have a traditional key that goes 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 can be done much quicker than purchasing one from a dealership.
You'll need to visit the dealer if you have a remote key with an external transmitter. The dealer will be able to find your details and provide you with the correct key at a lower cost than if you went to locksmith.
If you have evidence of ownership, like the title or registration or a certificate of ownership, a locksmith might be able to make a new key using your VIN. This is a cheaper alternative to going to an auto dealer, but it's not always feasible if you have a newer or more expensive vehicle.
The best way to prevent losing your keys is by having a spare. Keep it in a safe location, like your home and you won't need to think about leaving it somewhere when you leave your vehicle. It is also essential to check the pockets and purses frequently, especially if you wear an outerwear item with large pockets. Be sure to check the places that you would not normally reach, such as the inside of your shoes, especially if you're on runners. Make sure g28carkeys.co.uk check your trunk if have left keys in there. It's easy for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They could be stolen if someone drives away in your vehicle.