How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement Everyone loses their car keys at one time or some other time. It happens more often than most people realize it can be a big hassle. It is possible to replace lost car keys depending on the type of key that you own. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership then you can get the most basic keys made at the local hardware store. Retract read to lose your car keys, particularly when it happens during a hectic period of time when you need to be somewhere. It's not the end of the world and there are a variety of ways you can assist you in finding your car key replacement. The first thing to do is to retrace your steps. This involves going back through the places you've been to and looking around at home as well as at work. This will help you locate the keys, noting where you last seen them. If you are unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps you'll need to contact a local locksmith or dealership to get help. They'll be able to create an entirely new car key for you, and will decode your locks to ensure that only the key will be able to start the car. They'll also erase the old key out of your vehicle's system, so should someone manage to gain access to it the key, they won't be able to drive your vehicle. Make sure you have your VIN handy before contacting an agent or locksmith. This is the number located on your driver's side dashboard or door, and it will inform them of the vehicle you own so that they can make keys that match. Memory Exercises You might be tempted to fear losing your car keys However, try to remain calm. This will allow you to think clearly and search more thoroughly. Close your eyes and relax. Then utilize your memory to remember the last time you saw your keys. If you can't remember 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. You'll need to provide them with specific details about your vehicle and its security system. They'll be able to create keys that match your security chip. They'll also be able guide you on steps to prevent key loss. Make sure you have a valid vehicle Identification (VIN). In the past, misplacing-or losing-your car keys wasn't a big issue. You could contact your local locksmith and get a new key made. But as cars have become more technological as well, so have keys becoming more difficult and expensive to replace. It's important to have a spare car key or to be aware of the cost of a replacement in the event that you lose yours. The first thing you need to do when you lose your car keys is to ensure that the key you lost is not actually missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the jacket or pants you wore when you last used your car, or looking inside the back seat of your car or even looking in areas you don't normally see like the inside of a shoe or purse. Check your owner's guide to determine if it contains specific instructions on how to reset your key in case it stops working. If you have checked all the possibilities but are still unable to locate your car keys, it's time to get a professional for the replacement. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional or key fob, or switchblade) it can cost you between $50-$200 to purchase an alternative one. If you have a standard key, the locksmith will usually cut a new one and modify it to work with your vehicle. This is less expensive than the dealer's rates, which can cost as much as $320 to replace keys that have been lost. You'll need to call your dealer and request that your vehicle towed to them so they can order a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. They'll then need to pair your new key with your vehicle electronically. This can be costly and a lengthy procedure. It's a great idea to add Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to your policy so that you can receive expert assistance if you 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 ensure that the car's contents are safe from theft. These features make it harder to replace keys for your car. It's still possible to get an alternative key for these cars, however the process is more complicated and expensive. The exact cost will vary based on the kind of key your vehicle has, and this is something you need to be aware of before getting one made. The most straightforward kind of car key to make a spare for is the traditional double-edged key which can be re-used at any locksmith, hardware store, or car dealership. The cost is usually less than $10, and can be used as a backup key to start your car in an urgent situation. Transponder chips are used in the latest models of car keys to control different aspects of the vehicle, like locking and unlocking, switching on and off, and other functions. The chips have to be programmed using a specific machine, which is usually only available at certain dealerships. A locksmith near you can assist you if you need an extra key for these vehicles. They will need to know the model and year of your vehicle, as well as some other details to prove that you are the owner (like the registration number of your car or title). Certain locksmiths are capable of making keys in-person which will save you the hassle of having to visit 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, however, and they will not be available for assistance on the road. To get a more affordable alternative, consider a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices are attached to your key ring, and emit signals that you can connect with an app on your smartphone. The app will show you the location of your keys helping you locate them and prevent them from getting lost in the first instance! Find a New Key Everyone loses their keys at some time or another. It happens at the most awkward times, like at a gas station, or loading groceries into your trunk. Although it's simple to find your keys again, it can be a stressful experience if you don't have an extra set at home or with your friends. There are, however, options to obtain an alternative key if you have lost the original. The procedure is dependent on the kind of key you have and the vehicle you are using. For instance, if you have a standard key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder it's fairly easy to have a locksmith create an immediate replacement. This option is less than $200 and can be completed much faster than buying one from a dealer. If you have a key fob equipped with an external transmitter, however, you'll need to go to the dealer. The dealership will be able to locate your information and send you the right key at a lower cost than what you would pay if you went to a locksmith. If you have proof of ownership, like the title or registration or a certificate of ownership, a locksmith might be able create a new key using your VIN. This is a much cheaper alternative than visiting a dealership. However, it might not be possible in the case of a vehicle that is older or costly. The best way to avoid losing your keys is having an extra. Keep it in a secure location, such as your home, so that you don't need to worry about losing it when you leave your vehicle. Check your pockets and purses frequently, especially if have a coat or jacket with large pockets. Don't forget to check places you wouldn't normally reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you are on runners. Make sure you check your trunk if have left keys in there. It's easy to forget that you left them there and they can easily get taken away if someone else leaves in your car.
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