How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

Everyone loses their car key lost keys at some point or some other time. It happens more often than people realize, however it can be a huge hassle.

Fortunately, replacing lost car keys (my explanation) can be relatively simple, depending on what type of key you have. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership then you can get the most basic keys at your local hardware store.

Retract Your Steps

It's extremely frustrating to lose your car keys, especially when it happens during a hectic period of the day when you have to go somewhere. It's not the most unpleasant thing that can happen. There are many ways to locate your car key replacement.

You should first retrace all your steps. This means going back through the places you've been to and taking a look around at home and work. This will help you locate the keys, letting you know when you last seen them.

If you're still having trouble finding your car keys, contact an auto locksmith or a dealership nearby for assistance. They'll be able to make the new key for you, and decode the locks on your vehicle to ensure that only the new key is able to start it. They'll also remove the old key from the system of your vehicle, so if someone does manage to get their hands on it and steal it, they won't be allowed to drive your car.

Before you contact a locksmith or dealer ensure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) handy. This number is found on the door of the driver or on the dashboard. It will let them know what vehicle you drive so they can create a key that matches.

Memory Exercises

You may be tempted to fear losing your car keys, but keep your cool. This will allow you to think clearly and search more deeply. Close your eyes, relax and utilize the power of your memory to recall the location where you last saw your car keys last. If you're having difficulty remembering where they were, retrace your steps once more and look for any clues that may have been discovered.

If you're still having issues, contact an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area to get help. You'll be required to provide details about your vehicle and its security system, and they'll be able to make a replacement key that is compatible with your existing security chip. They'll also be able guide you on preventive measures to avoid future key loss.

Make sure you have a valid vehicle Identification (VIN).

It wasn't that long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a big issue. Call your local locksmith to get a new car key. As cars have evolved and sophisticated, so have keys. This makes them harder to replace lost keys and also more expensive. It is essential to have an extra car key, or to be aware of the cost of replacing it in the event you lose yours.

It is important to first determine if the key is really missing. Check the pockets in your pants or jacket along with the backseat and other places that you may not normally go, such as the inside of your purse or shoe. It is also advisable to check your owner's manual to find out if there are specific instructions for the type of key you have like how to reset it in the event that it dies.

If you've checked all the possibilities but are still unable to locate your car keys, it is time to call an expert to get an alternative. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional or key fob, or switchblade) it could cost you between $50 to $200 to buy new keys. If you have a traditional key, you can get the locksmith to make a new key and reprogram it for your vehicle. This is less expensive than the dealer's rates, which could be as high as $320 to replace a lost keys replacement key.

You'll need to contact your dealer and have your vehicle towed by them to allow them to purchase a new VIN-based keys for your vehicle. Then, they will have to connect the new key with your vehicle's electronic key, which could be a costly and time-consuming process. It's a good idea to add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to the policy to ensure that you receive expert assistance if you need it!

Make sure your vehicle's security is checked.

No secret is that many modern cars are equipped with advanced security features that protect the vehicle's content from theft. These features make it harder to replace car keys. 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 have. It is essential to be aware of this prior to purchasing one.

The easiest type of car key you can make a spare for is the classic double-edged car key which can be re-used at any hardware store, locksmith, or car dealership. It is usually less than $10 and serve as a backup or to start the car in case of emergency. The latest models of cars, however utilize transponder chips inside the keys to control various aspects of the vehicle, from locking and unlocking to switching on and turning off. These chips must be programmed with a specific machine that is available only at certain dealerships.

If you're in need of an additional spare for these advanced models of automobiles, a locksmith in your area should be able to help. They will need the model and year of the vehicle and other information (like your registration number or your title) to verify that they are the owner of the vehicle. Certain locksmiths can create these keys on the spot which will save you time from having to visit a dealer.

The dealership is the best option if you don't own spare. They are the best place to ask because they know your car and what keys you need to start it. It can be costly, and they will not be able to provide roadside assistance.

Try using a Bluetooth key tracker for an alternative that is affordable. These devices attach to your key ring and emit a signal that you can transmit to an app on your phone. The app can then show you where your keys are, helping you find them, and stop them from being lost in the first place!

Get a new key

Everybody loses their keys at some point. It happens at the most awkward times, like at a gas station or loading groceries into your trunk. Although it's easy to find your keys once again, it could be a very stressful situation when you don't have a spare set in your home or with friends.

There are still ways to get a replacement key if you've lost the original. The process varies depending on your type of key and vehicle.

If you own an ignition lock key for a cylinder, for instance it's fairly easy to have a local locksmith make a new one right on the spot. This is less than $200, and is typically quicker than purchasing one from the dealer.

If you have a key fob with an external transmitter,, you'll need to go to the dealer. The dealer will be able to locate your information and send you the correct key at a cheaper price than for a locksmith.

A locksmith may also be able create keys for replacement with the help of the VIN of your vehicle, so you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title. This is a cheaper alternative to going to an auto dealer however, it's not always possible when you own a newer or more expensive vehicle.

The best way to avoid losing your keys is having a spare. Keep it in a secure location, such as your home, so that you do not have to be concerned about losing it when you leave your car. Be sure to check your purses and pockets often, especially if you have a coat or jacket with large pockets. Be sure to check places you wouldn't usually reach, such as the inside of your shoes in the event that you wear runners. Make sure you check your trunk if have left the keys 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.