-
Maldonado Johannesen posted an update 1 year, 8 months ago
How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
It’s a fact that everyone loses car keys at some point. It happens more frequently than most people realize, and it can be a big problem.
It is possible to replace lost car keys dependent on the type of key you own. The most basic keys can usually 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, especially when it happens during a hectic time of the day when you have to go somewhere. It’s not the end of the world, and there are several ways you can assist you in finding the replacement car key you lost.
The first thing you need to do is to 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 a good idea of where you recalled seeing your keys, and may guide you to where they could be.
If you’re still having trouble finding your car keys, you can call a locksmith or dealership in your area for help. They’ll be able to make a new car keys for you, and will decode your locks to ensure that only the key can start the car. They’ll also remove the old key from your vehicle’s system, so if someone does manage to get their hands on it, they won’t be able to drive your vehicle.
Before you contact a locksmith or dealer, ensure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) handy. The VIN is on the driver’s door or on the dashboard. It will inform them of the car you own so they can create a key that matches.
Using Your Memory
You may be tempted be scared of losing your car keys however, try to remain calm. This will help you think clearly and search more thoroughly. Relax your eyes, close your eyes and utilize the power of your memory to recall the exact location you last saw your car keys last. If you’re having difficulty remembering where they were, go back your steps again and look for any clues that might have been discovered.
If you’re still having trouble, contact an auto locksmith or a dealership near you for assistance. They’ll require details about your vehicle and its security system. They’ll then create a new key that matches the security chip you have already installed. They’ll also provide suggestions on how to prevent any future loss of keys.
Check Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).
A few years ago the idea of losing or misplacing your car keys was not a big deal. You could contact your local locksmith and get a new key made. However, as cars have become more high-tech as well, so have keys become more expensive and difficult to replace. It is essential to have a spare car key or to be aware of the cost of replacing it in the event that you lose yours.
The first thing you need to do when you lose a car key is to ensure that the lost key is indeed missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the pants or jacket you were wearing when you last used your car, or looking at the back of your car or even looking in places that you would not normally look like the inside of a shoe or purse. You should also look through the owner’s manual to determine if there are specific instructions for the type of key you own, such as how to reset it in the event that it dies.
If you’ve checked everything and still can’t locate your car keys, it is time to call an expert to get an alternative. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional keys, key fobs or switchblade) it can cost you between $50 to $200 to get an alternative one. If you own an old-fashioned key, you can usually have the locksmith simply cut a new key and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is less expensive than the dealer’s rates, which could be as high as $320 to replace keys that have been lost.
For a key fob, or switchblade key, you’ll have to call your dealership and have your car towed in for them to order a new key for your vehicle that is based on the VIN. They will then have to pair your new key with your vehicle electronically. This can be costly and a lengthy procedure. This is why it’s a good idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance policy, so that you will have the assistance of a professional if you ever need it!
Check Your Vehicle’s Security System
It’s not a secret that many modern cars have fancy security features that are designed to keep the contents of the vehicle safe from theft. These security features can make it more difficult to replace the car keys. It’s still possible to get an alternative key for these vehicles, but the process is more difficult and expensive. The cost will be depending on the kind of key your vehicle has, and this is something you need to be aware of before getting one made.
The easiest type of car key to make a spare for is the classic double-edged car 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 or to start your car in an urgent situation. The latest models of automobiles, however, incorporate transponder chips into the keys to control various aspects of the vehicle, from locking and unlocking to turning on and starting. The chips have to be programmed using a special machine that is available only in some dealerships.
A locksmith near you can assist you if you need a spare key for these advanced cars. They will need to know the year and model of your car as well as other details to prove that you’re the owner (like the registration number of your car or title). g28carkeys can create these keys on-site, saving you time from visiting an agent.
The dealership is your best option if there isn’t spare. They are the best person to talk to because they are familiar with the car and the keys you’ll need to get started with it. This can be costly but they won’t be open for assistance at the roadside.
For a much more affordable alternative, you can try a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices attach to your key ring, emitting a signal you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app can then show you where your keys are located, helping you find them and prevent them from getting lost in the first place!
Find a New Key
Everyone loses their car keys at one point or another. It can happen at the most inconvenient times, while at a station or loading groceries into your trunk. Although it’s easy to find your keys once again, this can be a very stressful situation if you don’t have an extra set at home or with your friends.
Fortunately, there are still alternatives to purchase an alternative key even if you’ve lost your original. The process varies depending on your kind of key and your vehicle.
If you own an ignition lock key that is a cylinder, like it’s fairly easy to get a locksmith in your area to make a new one immediately. This option costs less than $200 and is usually quicker than buying one from a dealership.
You’ll need to go to the dealer if you have an electronic remote with an external transmitter. The dealership will be able to find your details and provide you with the correct key at a lower cost than what you would pay if you went to locksmith.
A locksmith might also be able to create a replacement key using the VIN number of your car, as you have evidence of ownership like your registration or title. This is a much cheaper alternative than visiting a dealership. However, it may not be a possibility when your car is older or expensive.
It is recommended to keep a spare set of keys. Keep it in a secure place, like your house and you won’t have to worry about leaving it in the event that you leave your vehicle. It’s also important to inspect your purses and pockets regularly, especially if you wear an outerwear item with large pockets. Be sure to check the places that you would not normally reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you have on runners. Be sure to double-check the trunk of your car, if you’ve put the keys down there. It’s easy to forget about the keys in your trunk. They can be stolen when someone drives away in your car.