How to Find lost my key loses their car keys at one time or some other time. It happens more frequently than most people realize, and it can be a major hassle.
It is possible to replace lost car keys depending on the type of key you have. The most basic keys can be made at an area hardware store, provided you can provide the VIN number or evidence of ownership.
Retract your steps
Losing your car keys can be frustrating, especially when 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 many ways to locate your car key replacement.
It is recommended to retrace your steps. This involves going back through the places you've been to and taking a look around, both at home and work. This will give you an idea of where you've seen your keys and could help you find where they could be.
If you are still unable to locate your car keys, contact an auto locksmith or a dealership in your area for assistance. They'll be able to make an entirely new key for you and decode the locks that are already in your vehicle to ensure that only the new key is able to start it. They'll also erase the old key so that if anyone manages to steal it, they aren't able to drive your vehicle.
Be sure to have your VIN handy before you contact a dealer or locksmith. This number is found on the driver's door panel or on the dashboard. It will inform them of the vehicle you own, so they can make keys that match.
Memory Exercises
You might be tempted to be scared of losing your car keys however, be calm. This will help you think clearly and search more thoroughly. Relax your eyes, close your eyes and make use of your memory to remember the location where you last found your car keys the last time. If you're struggling to remember where they were, go back your steps again and look for any clues that could have surfaced.
If you're having no luck try contacting a locksmith in your area or dealer to get help. You'll need to provide them with information about your vehicle and the security system that it uses and they'll be able create a replacement key that will pair with your security chip. They can also give you suggestions on how to prevent future key losses.
Check Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).
It wasn't that long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car was not a huge problem. You could simply call your local locksmith to make a new key. As cars evolved, so have their keys. This makes them harder to replace and also more expensive. It's essential to have an extra car key, or to be aware of the cost of a replacement in case you lose yours.
You must first determine if the key is really missing. Examine the pockets of your pants or jacket along with the backseat and other places you might not normally look, such as the inside of a purse or shoe. It is also advisable to look through the owner's manual to determine if there are specific instructions for the kind of key you own for example, how to reset it in the event that it becomes dead.
If you've tried everything and still can't locate your car keys, it is time to call an expert to get the replacement. The cost of a new one will vary from $50 to more than $200 based on the type you own. 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 cheaper alternative than paying the dealer, who could charge up to $320 for a new key.
You'll have 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. Then, they'll need to pair the new key with your vehicle's electronic key this is a costly and lengthy process. This is why it's a good idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance policy, so that you can get the assistance of a professional if you ever need to!
Make sure your vehicle's security is checked.
It's not a secret that many modern vehicles come with sophisticated security features that help keep the vehicle's contents safe from theft. These features can make it more difficult to replace keys for your car. It's not difficult to find an alternative key for these cars although the process is more complex and expensive than in the past. The cost of a new key will vary on the kind of vehicle you own. You should know this before ordering one.
The classic double-edged car key can be made into a spare at any hardware store or at a dealership. It is usually less than $10 and will work just fine as a backup or to start the car in an emergency. The latest models of automobiles, however, use transponder chips in the keys to control various aspects of the vehicle, from locking and unlocking to turning on and starting. These chips must be programmed using a special device that is only available at certain dealerships.
If you're in need of a spare for these more sophisticated cars, a locksmith local to you will be able to assist. They'll need the year and model of your vehicle as well as other details to confirm that you're the owner (like the registration number of your car or title). Some locksmiths can make 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 people to ask because they know your car and what keys you require to start it. It could be costly, and they will not be able to provide roadside assistance.
Try a Bluetooth key tracker as an affordable alternative. These devices clip onto your key ring and emit a signal that you can then connect to an app on your phone. The app will then display the whereabouts of your keys, aiding you in finding them and prevent them from being lost in the first instance!
Find a New Key
Everyone loses their keys at some point. It can happen at the most inconvenient times, such as at a gas station or loading groceries into your trunk. Although it's easy to locate your keys again, it could be a stressful experience in the event that you don't have a spare set in your home or with friends.
There are still ways to get a new key if you've lost the original. The procedure is dependent on the type of key you own and your vehicle.
For instance, if have a standard key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder, it's fairly easy to have a locksmith make a replacement on the spot. This option costs less than $200 and is often quicker than getting one from the 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 find your information and send you the correct key at a lower price than you would pay to locksmith.
A locksmith may also be able to make a replacement key with the help of the VIN of your vehicle, so long as you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title. This is a less expensive alternative to visiting an auto dealer, but it's not always possible when you own a newer or more expensive vehicle.
It is recommended to have a spare set keys. Keep it in a secure location, such as your home and you won't have to worry about putting it somewhere when you leave your vehicle. It is also essential to check pockets and purses regularly, especially if you wear a jacket or coat with large pockets. Examine places that you may not normally reach, like the inside of your shoes when you wear shoes. Double-check your trunk if you have put your keys in there. It's easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They could be stolen when someone drives away in your vehicle.