How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
Everyone loses their car keys at some point or some other time. It happens more often than people think, however it can be a huge hassle.
It is possible to replace lost car keys, dependent on the type of key that you have. The most basic keys can be made at the local hardware store if you have the VIN number or proof of ownership.
Retract Your Steps
The loss of your car keys can be stressful, especially if it happens at a hectic time of the day when you have to go somewhere. It's not the worst thing in the world. There are a variety of ways to find your car key replacement.
You should first retrace all your steps. This can be done by going back to the places you've been to and taking a look around, both at home and at work. This will help you locate the keys by letting you know the last time you seen them.
If you can't find your car keys after retracing your steps you'll need to call an auto locksmith or a local locksmith for assistance. They will be able create a new car keys for you, and also decode your locks to ensure that only the key is able to start the vehicle. They'll also remove the old key to ensure that if anyone manages to get it, they aren't able to drive your car.
Be sure to have your VIN in hand before you contact the locksmith or dealer. This number is located on the driver's door or on the dashboard. It will allow them to know what car you own and they will be able to create a key that matches.
Making Use of Your Memory
If you've lost your car keys, you could feel panicky. Try to remain calm. This will help you think clearly and search more deeply. Close your eyes and relax. Then you can use your memory to recall the last time you viewed your keys. If you're unable to recall where you put your keys you were, go back to the steps and search for clues.
If you're still having trouble, contact a locksmith or dealership in your area to get help. They'll require information about your vehicle as well as its security system. They'll then create a new key that matches your security chip. They'll also guide you on steps to prevent key loss.
Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
A few years ago the idea of losing or misplacing your car keys wasn't a big deal. Contact your local locksmith to get a new car key. As cars have evolved and sophisticated, so have keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and costlier. That's why it's important to keep a spare key on hand or at the very least be aware of the price your car dealership will charge to replace it if you lose one.
You must first see if the key is really missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the jacket or pants you were wearing when you last used your car, looking at the back of your vehicle, and even checking areas you don't normally see like the inside of a shoe or purse. Check your owner's guide to see if it has specific instructions on how to reset your key if it is dead.
If you have checked everything but still cannot find your car keys, it is time to contact an expert to get an alternative. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional keys, key fobs, or switchblade) it can cost you anything from $50-$200 to purchase a new one. If you own a traditional key, the locksmith can typically cut a new key and change it's programming to fit your vehicle. This is a cheaper alternative than paying the dealer, who could charge up to $320 for a replacement key.
If G28 Car Keys want a key fob or switchblade key, you'll have to contact your dealer and have your car towing in to order a new key for your vehicle that is based on the VIN. They'll then need to connect your new key with your vehicle electronically. This can be a costly and lengthy procedure. This is why it's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you can have the help of a professional if you ever need to!
Verify the security system of your vehicle.
It's no secret that many modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features designed to keep the contents of the vehicle safe from thieves. These security features can make it difficult to replace keys for your car. It is still possible to obtain an alternative key for these vehicles, but the process is more difficult and expensive. The exact cost will differ based on the type of key your vehicle has, and this is something you need to be aware of prior to getting one made.
The easiest kind of car key to make a spare for is the classic double-edged key that can be purchased at any locksmith, hardware store or car dealership. The cost is typically less than $10, and can be used as a backup key to start your car in a dire situation. More recent models of automobiles, however, use transponder chips in the keys to control different aspects of the car including locking and unlocking to turning on and off. The chips have to be programmed with a specific machine that is available only in some dealerships.
If you're looking to create a spare for these more advanced models of cars, a local locksmith will be able to assist. They'll need the model and year of the car and other details (like your registration number or your title) to confirm that they are the owner. Some locksmiths can make keys on site and save you the hassle of visiting dealers.
If you don't have a spare, the alternative is to go to the dealership. They are the best person to ask because they know the car and the keys you'll need to get started with it. This can be costly but they won't be available for assistance at the roadside.
Try an Bluetooth key tracker as an alternative that is affordable. These devices are attached to your key ring and emit a signal you can connect to an app on your phone. The app will then inform you where your keys are, helping you locate them and preventing them from getting lost in the first place!
Find a new key
Everybody loses their keys at some moment in time. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as at a gas station or loading groceries into your trunk. Although it's simple to find your keys again, it could 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 even if you've lost your original. The process is different based on your kind of key and your vehicle.
If you own an ignition lock key that is a cylinder, like it's fairly easy to get a locksmith in your area to make a new one immediately. This is less than $200, and it's often quicker than getting one from the dealership.
If you have a key fob with an external transmitter, however, you'll need to go to the dealer. The dealer will be able to find your details and provide you with the right key at a lower cost than for a locksmith.
A locksmith might also be able to make keys for replacement with the help of your car's VIN, as long as you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title. This is a cheaper option than going to a dealer. However, it might not be possible if your vehicle is newer or expensive.
The best method to avoid losing your keys is by having a spare. Keep it in a safe location, like your home, so that you don't need to worry about losing it if you leave your car. It's also important to inspect your purses and pockets regularly especially if you're wearing a coat or jacket with large pockets. Be sure to check the places you'd never reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you have on runners. Finally, be sure to double-check the trunk of your car, if you've put the keys in there. It's easy to forget that you left them there and they're easily taken away if someone else drives off in your car.