How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
Every car owner loses their keys at one time or another. It happens more frequently than people think however it can be a big trouble.
Fortunately replacing car keys lost is relatively easy, depending on what type of key you own. The most basic keys can be made at the local hardware store if you have the VIN number or evidence of ownership.
Retract Your Steps
It's a hassle to lose your car keys, particularly if it occurs during a busy period of the day when you're required to be somewhere. It's not the end of the world and there are a number of ways to assist you in finding the replacement car key you lost.
The first thing to do is retrace your steps. This means going back to the places you've visited and taking a look around at home as well as at work. This will give you an idea of the last location you've seen your keys and could help you find the location they might be.
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 create a new car keys for you, and decode the locks you have in place so that only the key can start the car. They'll also erase the old key to ensure that if anyone does manage to steal it, they won't be able to drive your car.
Before you call a locksmith or dealer, ensure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) in your pocket. The VIN is on the door of the driver or dashboard. It will allow them to know what car you own, so they can make keys that match.
Memory Exercises
You may be tempted fear losing your car keys however, keep your cool. This will allow you to concentrate and conduct a thorough search. Close your eyes and relax. Then utilize your memory to remember the last place you saw your keys. If you're having difficulty remembering where they were, retrace your steps again and look for any clues that may have been discovered.
If you're having no luck try contacting a locksmith in your area or dealer for assistance. You'll have to give them specific details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll be able to create an original key that matches your existing security chip. They can also give you tips on how to avoid future key losses.
Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Not too long 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 become more sophisticated and sophisticated, so have keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and costlier. It's essential to have an extra car key, or to know the cost of a replacement in the event you lose yours.
It is important to first find out if the key really missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the clothing you were wearing when you last used your car, or looking in the backseat of your car or even looking in places you wouldn't usually look like the inside of a shoe or purse. You should also go through your owner's manual and find out if there are special instructions for the kind of key you own, such as how to reset it if it dies.
If read the full info here tried everything and still can't locate your car keys, it's time to call an expert for a new one. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional keys, key fobs or switchblade) it can cost you anywhere from $50-$200 to purchase an alternative one. If you own a traditional key, you could get the locksmith to cut a new key and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is a cheaper alternative to paying the dealer, who can charge up to $320 for a new key.
You'll have to contact your dealer and get your car towed to them so they can order a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. Then, they'll have to pair the new key with your vehicle's computer, which could be a costly and lengthy procedure. This is why it's a great idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you can have the help of a professional should you ever need it!
Make sure your vehicle's security system is working
It's no secret that many modern vehicles come with advanced security features that protect the vehicle's content from theft. These features can make it difficult to replace car keys. It's not difficult to get a new key for these vehicles, though the process is more complex and costly than in the past. The exact cost will differ according to the type of key your vehicle is using, and you must be aware of prior to having one made.
The easiest kind of car key to create a spare key for is the classic double-edged car key that can be replaced at any hardware store, locksmith, or car dealership. It will typically cost less than $10 and will be a perfect backup or to start the car in an emergency. Modern models of automobiles, however, use transponder chips in the keys to control various aspects of the car including locking and unlocking to switching on and turning off. The chips have to be programmed with a specific machine that is available only at certain dealerships.
A local locksmith can help you with an extra key for these advanced cars. They'll need the model and year of your vehicle as well as other details to prove that you are the owner (like the registration number on your car or title). Some locksmiths can make these keys on-site and save you the hassle of having to visit a dealer.
If you don't have a spare, the alternative is the dealership. They are the best people to talk to because they are familiar with your car and what keys you require to start it. It can be costly, and they will not be available for roadside assistance.
For a much more affordable alternative, try using a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices attach to your key ring, emitting an audio signal that you can then connect with an app on your smartphone. The app will then display the location of your keys helping you locate them and prevent them from being lost in the first place!
Get a New Key
Everyone loses their keys at some point. It happens at the most inconvenient times, while at a gas station, or loading groceries into your trunk. It's not hard to find your keys however it can be stressful if don't have a spare set of keys at home or with a buddy.
There are still ways to obtain a replacement key in case you've lost your original. The procedure is dependent on the kind of key you have and the vehicle you are using.
If Learn Alot more own an ignition lock cylinder key, for example it's fairly easy to have a local locksmith create a new one on the spot. This will cost less than $200, and is usually quicker than buying one from a dealership.
If you have a key fob that has an external transmitter, however you'll have to visit the dealer. The dealer will be able to find your details and provide you with the correct key at a cheaper price than what you would pay if you went to a locksmith.
A locksmith might also be able to make keys for replacement using the VIN number of your car, as long as you have evidence of ownership like your registration or title. This is a much cheaper alternative than visiting a dealership. However, it might not be feasible in the case of a vehicle that is older or expensive.
The best way to prevent losing your keys is having a spare. Keep it in a safe location, like your home, so you do not have to be concerned about losing it when you leave your vehicle. It's also important to check the pockets and purses frequently especially if you're wearing a jacket or coat with large pockets. Examine places that you may not typically reach, such as the inside of your shoe in the event that you wear runners. Be sure to double-check the trunk of your car, if you've put keys there. It's easy for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be taken when someone drives away in your vehicle.