How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
Every car owner loses their keys at one point or another. It happens more frequently than most people realize, and it can be a huge trouble.
Fortunately replacing car keys lost is fairly simple, depending on what type of key you have. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership, you can get the most basic keys at your local hardware store.
Retract your steps
Losing your car keys can be difficult, especially when it happens at a hectic time of day and you need to get somewhere. It's not the end of the world and there are a number of ways to help you find your car key replacement.
It is recommended to retrace your steps. You can do this by going back to the places you have been and taking a look around, both at your home and work. This will help you locate the keys, letting you know where you last was able to see them.
If you are still unable to locate your car keys, you can call a locksmith or a dealership nearby for assistance. They'll be able to create a new car key for you, and will decode your locks to ensure that only the key is able to start the vehicle. They'll also remove the old key out of your vehicle's system, so should someone manage to gain access to it and steal it, they won't be allowed to drive your car.
Before you speak to an expert locksmith or dealer, make sure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) in your pocket. This is the number located on your driver's dashboard or door panel, and it will let them know which vehicle you own so that they can design an appropriate key for your vehicle.
Memory Exercises
If you lose your car keys, you may be frightened. But try to remain calm. This will help you think clearly and search more thoroughly. Relax your eyes and close them. Then you can use your memory to remember the last time you saw your keys. If you're unable to recall the location of your keys you were, go back to the steps and search for clues.
If you're having no luck, contact a local locksmith or dealer for assistance. They'll require information about your vehicle as well as its security system. They'll then create a new key that matches your existing security chip. They'll also be able guide you on ways to prevent future key loss.
Verify G28 Car Keys (VIN)
Not too long ago, misplacing-or losing-your car keys wasn't a big problem. You could simply call your local locksmith to make a new key. But as cars have become more technological, so too have their keys becoming more expensive and difficult to replace. This is why it's crucial to always have a spare key on hand or at the very least know how much your car dealer will charge you for a replacement if you lose one.
You should first check to 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 a purse or shoe. You should also go through your owner's manual and see if there are any specific instructions for the type of key you have like how to reset it if it dies.
If you have checked everything but still cannot find your car keys, it is time to contact an expert for an alternative. The cost of a new key will vary from $50 to over $200 depending on the type you have. If you have a conventional key, the locksmith will usually cut a new one and change it's programming to work with your vehicle. This is a less expensive option than the dealer's price that can cost as much as $320 to replace keys that have been lost.
You'll need to contact your dealer and request that your vehicle towing by them to allow them to purchase a new VIN-based keys for your vehicle. They will then have to pair your new key with your vehicle electronically. This could be costly and a lengthy procedure. It's a great idea add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to your policy so that you can get expert help if needed!
Make sure your vehicle's security system is working
There is no doubt that modern vehicles are fitted with advanced security features that safeguard the contents of the car from theft. These features can make it difficult to replace keys for your car. It is still possible to obtain an alternative key for these cars, however the process is more difficult and expensive. The cost of the new key will be contingent on the type of vehicle you own. You should know this before ordering one.
The easiest type of car key you can make a spare for is the traditional double-edged key which can be re-used at any locksmith, hardware store, or car dealership. It typically costs less than $10 and will be a perfect backup or to start the car in an emergency. Transponder chips are used in more recent models of keys to control various aspects of the vehicle, like locking and unlocking, switching off and on, as well as other functions. These chips need to be programmed using a special machine that is only available at certain dealerships.
If you're in need of an extra for these more sophisticated cars, a locksmith local to you should be able to help. They will need to know the year and model of your car and other information to verify that you are the owner (like the registration number on your car or title). Some locksmiths will be capable of making keys in-person which will save you the hassle of having to go to dealers.
If you do not have a spare, the alternative is to go to the dealership. They will be the most knowledgeable about your particular vehicle and the keys required to start it. This can be expensive but they won't be able to provide assistance at the roadside.
If you want a less expensive alternative, try using a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices connect to your key ring and emit an audio signal that you can then connect with an app on your smartphone. The app will display the location of your keys, helping you to find them and prevent them from being lost in the first place!
Find a New Key
Every car owner loses their keys at one point or another. It can happen at the most awkward of places, such as at a gasstation or when taking groceries out of your trunk. Although it's simple to find your keys once again, it can be a very stressful scenario when you don't have a spare set at home or with your friends.
There are still ways to get a new key if you've lost your original. The process is different based on your type of key and vehicle.
For instance, if have a standard key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder it's fairly easy to have a locksmith create a replacement on the spot. This option is less than $200 and is much quicker than purchasing one from a dealer.
If you have a key fob that has an external transmitter, however you'll need to visit the dealer. The dealer will find your information and send you the correct key at a lower price than you'd pay a locksmith.
If you have evidence of ownership, like an official title or registration, a locksmith may be able to make an entirely new key with your VIN. This is a less expensive alternative than going to a dealer. However, it may not be a possibility if your vehicle is newer or costly.
It is recommended to keep a spare set of keys. Place it in a safe location, such as your home, so you don't need to worry about losing it if you leave your vehicle. Make sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, particularly if you have coats or jackets with large pockets. Examine places that you may not normally reach, like the inside of your shoe in the event that you wear runners. Make sure you check your trunk if have put your keys in there. It's easy to forget that you put them in there and they can easily get stolen if someone else drives off in your car.