Three Greatest Moments In Lost Car Key Replacement History

How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
It's a fact that every car owner loses their keys at some moment in time. It happens more than people think and is a huge hassle.
Fortunately, replacing lost car keys is relatively easy depending on the type of key you own. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership then you can get the most basic keys at the local hardware store.
Retract your steps
It's extremely frustrating to lose your car keys, especially if it occurs during a busy period of time when you need to be somewhere. It's not the end of the world and there are a number of ways to assist you in finding your lost car key replacement.
You should first retrace all your steps. You can do this by returning to the places you have been to and taking a look around, at both home and at work. This will give you an idea of the last location you recalled seeing your keys and can guide you to where they might be.
If you're still having trouble finding your car keys, contact a locksmith or a dealership in your area for assistance. They'll be able to make a new car keys for you, and decode your locks to ensure that only the key will be able to start the car. They'll also remove the old key, so that if anyone does manage to obtain it, they won't be able to use your vehicle.
Be sure to have your VIN handy before contacting an agent or locksmith. This is the number found on your driver's side door panel or dashboard, and it will let them know which car you drive so they can make a new key to match.
Memory Exercises
You might be tempted to panic at the thought of losing your car keys However, keep your cool. This will help you think clearly and search more deeply. Relax your eyes and close them. Then you can use your memory to recall the last place you saw your keys. If you're having trouble remembering the exact location, retrace your steps and search for any clues that could have surfaced.
If you are experiencing issues, call a locksmith or dealership near you for assistance. You'll be required to provide details about your car and its security system, and they'll be able create a replacement key that is compatible with your security chip. They'll also be able provide you with steps to prevent key loss.
Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
It wasn't long ago that losing keys to your car were not a major issue. You could simply call your local locksmith and have a new key made. But as cars have become more high-tech as well, so have keys, making them more difficult and expensive to replace. This is why it's crucial to always keep a spare key around, or at least know the amount your car dealership will charge you for a replacement in the event that you lose one.
You must first see if the key is really missing. This can be done by checking the pockets of the clothing that you wore last time you used your car, or looking in the backseat of your car as well as checking out places that you would not normally look like the inside of a shoe or a purse. Check your owner's guide to determine if there are any specific instructions on how to reset the key if it is dead.
If you've tried everything but still can't find your car keys, it's time to contact an expert to request new keys. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional, key fob, or switchblade), it will cost you between $50 to $200 to buy an alternative one. If you have an old-fashioned key, you can get the locksmith to cut a new one and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is a much cheaper alternative to paying a dealer, who could charge up to $320 for a replacement key.
For a key fob or switchblade key, you'll have to contact your dealer and have your car towing in to request the new key for your vehicle that is based on the VIN. Then, they'll need to pair the new key to your vehicle electronically, which is a costly and lengthy process. This is why it's a good idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance policy, so that you can have the help of a professional should you ever require it!
Check the security system of your car.
It's not a secret that many modern cars come with fancy security features designed to protect the contents of the car from thieves. These security features make it harder to replace the car keys. Fortunately, it's not impossible to find an alternative key for these vehicles however, the process is more complicated and costly than in the past. The cost of the new key will be contingent on the kind of vehicle you own. You should know this before ordering one.
The classic double-edged car keys can be converted into a spare by visiting any hardware store or dealership. It is usually less than $10 and will work just fine as a backup or to start the car in an emergency. Transponder chips are used in the most recent models of keys to control various aspects of the vehicle, including locking and unlocking, turning off and on, as well as other functions. The chips have to be programmed with a specific machine that is available only at certain dealerships.
A locksmith near you can assist you if you require a spare key for these advanced cars. They'll need the year and model of your vehicle and other information to verify that you're the owner (like the registration number of your car or title). Some locksmiths can make keys on site which will save you time from needing to visit dealers.
The dealership is the best option if you don't own spare. They are the best place to ask because they know the vehicle and what keys you need to start it. This can be costly, however, and they will not be able to provide assistance on the road.
Try a Bluetooth key tracker as an alternative that is affordable. These devices connect to your key ring and emit signals that you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app can then show you where your keys are located, helping you locate them, and stop them from getting lost in the first place!
Get a new key
Everyone loses their car keys at some point or another. It happens at the most awkward times, like at a gas station, or loading groceries into your trunk. It's not hard to find your keys, but it is stressful if you don't have an extra set of keys at home or with a buddy.
There are, however, options to obtain an alternative key in the event that you've lost the original. The procedure will depend on the kind of key you have and your vehicle.
For instance, if have a standard key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder, it's relatively simple to have a locksmith create 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 equipped with an external transmitter, you'll have to visit the dealer. The dealership will be able locate your information and send you the correct key for a much lower price than you would pay for a locksmith.
If you have evidence of ownership, like an official title or registration, a locksmith may be able to make a new key using your VIN. This is a cheaper option to visiting a dealership. However, it might not be feasible when your car is older or costly.
It is best to have a spare set keys. Place it in a safe location, such as your home, so that you don't have to worry about losing it when you leave your vehicle. It is also essential to check the pockets and purses frequently, especially if you wear a jacket or coat with large pockets. Be my company to check places you wouldn't typically reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you wear runners. Make sure you check your trunk if have left keys in there. It's easy to forget you put them in there and they're easily stolen if someone else leaves in your car.