The Lost Car Key Replacement Awards: The Top, Worst, Or The Most Bizarre Things We've Seen

How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement

Everyone loses their car keys at one point or some other time. It happens more frequently than people realize, however, and it can be a huge trouble.

Fortunately, replacing lost car keys is fairly simple depending on the type of key you own. The most basic keys can be made at the local hardware store if you provide the VIN number or evidence of ownership.

Retract Your Steps

The loss of your car keys can be difficult, especially when it happens at a busy 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.

The first thing you need to do is to retrace your steps. This can be done by returning to the places where you've been and looking around, at both the workplace and at home. This will give you an idea of the last location you remember seeing your keys and could guide you to the location they might be.

If you're unable to locate your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll want to call an area locksmith or dealership for assistance. They'll be able to make an entirely new key for you and decode the existing locks on your vehicle so that only the new key is able to start it. They'll also erase the old key out of the system of your vehicle, so even if someone does gain access to it, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.

Before you call a locksmith or dealer make sure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) in your pocket. This is a number that's located on your driver's dashboard or door and will let them know which car you own so they can create keys that match.

Memory Exercises

If you've lost your car keys, you might be anxious. However, try to keep your cool. This will enable you to concentrate and search thoroughly. Close your eyes, relax and make use of your memory to remember where you found your car keys the last time. If you're having trouble remembering where they were, retrace your steps and search for any clues that might have been discovered.

If you're not getting any luck, contact a local locksmith or dealer to get help. You'll be required to provide information about your vehicle and the security system that it uses, and they'll make a replacement key that can be paired with your security chip. They'll also advise you on ways to prevent future key loss.

Make sure you have a valid vehicle Identification (VIN).

It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys was not a big problem. Contact your local locksmith to find a replacement car key. As cars have become more sophisticated, so have their keys. This makes them harder to replace and costlier. 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.

It is important to first determine if the key is really missing. This is done by checking the pockets of the pants or jacket you wore when you last used your car, looking inside the back seat of your vehicle or even looking in areas you don't normally see like the inside of a shoe or a purse. It is also advisable to look through the owner's manual to find out if there are specific instructions for the type of key you have like how to reset it in case it becomes dead.

If you have checked everything but still cannot find your car keys, it is time to contact an expert to get the replacement. The cost of a new one will range from $50 to $200, based on the kind you have. If you own a traditional key, you could have the locksmith simply make a new key and reprogram it to your vehicle. This is less expensive than the dealer's price which could be as high as $320 to replace a lost key.

For a key fob or switchblade key, you'll have to call your dealership and have the vehicle towed to them to order an additional key for your vehicle that is based on the VIN. Then, they'll need to connect your new key with your vehicle electronically. This can be a costly and lengthy process. This is why it's a great idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance, so you will have the assistance of an expert if you ever need it!

Verify the security system of your vehicle.

It's not a secret that a lot of modern cars come with fancy security features designed to keep the contents of the vehicle safe from theft. While these features are usually beneficial, they can also make keys for the car more difficult to replace. It's still possible to get an alternative key for these vehicles, but the process is more complex and costly. The exact cost will vary depending on the kind of key your vehicle is using, and you must be aware of prior to having one made.

The easiest type of car key you can make a spare for is the classic double-edged car key which can be re-used at any locksmith, hardware store or car dealership. It typically costs less than $10 and will serve as a backup or to start the car in case of emergency. Modern models of cars, however utilize transponder chips inside the keys to control various aspects of the vehicle from locking and unlocking to turning on and starting. The chips have to be programmed with a specific machine that is only available in some dealerships.

If you're in need of a spare for these more advanced types of cars, a locksmith local to you should be able to help. They'll need the model and year of your vehicle as well as other details to prove that you are the owner (like your car registration number or title). Some locksmiths can make keys on site, saving you time from needing to visit an agent.

If you don't have a spare, the alternative is to go to the dealership. They will be the most knowledgeable about your particular vehicle and the keys that are required to start it. It can be expensive and they may not be able to assist you on the road.

Try  g28carkeys  for an affordable alternative. These devices connect to your key ring and emit a signal you can connect with an app on your smartphone. The app will then show you the location of your keys helping you to find them and prevent them from getting lost in the first place!

Get a New Key

Every car owner loses their keys at one point or another. It can happen at the most inconvenient times, such as at a gas station, or loading groceries into your trunk. It's not hard to find your keys again however it can be stressful if do not have an extra set of keys at home or with a companion.

There are still ways to obtain a replacement key in case you've lost your original. The procedure varies based on the kind of key and your vehicle.

If you have an ignition lock key for a cylinder, for instance, it is relatively easy to get a locksmith in your area to make a replacement immediately. This will cost less than $200, and is typically quicker than purchasing one from the dealer.

If you have a key fob that has an external transmitter, however you'll need go to the dealer. The dealer will identify your details, and then send you the correct key for a lower cost than you would pay to a locksmith.

A locksmith might also be able to create a replacement key with the help of your car's VIN, as you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title. This is a cheaper alternative to going to an auto dealer, but it's not always possible when you own a brand new or more expensive vehicle.

The best way to avoid losing your keys is having an extra. Place it in a safe place, such as your home, so you don't need to worry about losing it if you leave your vehicle. Make sure to check your purses and pockets often, especially if you have a coat or jacket with large pockets. Be sure to check places you wouldn't typically reach, such as the inside of your shoes in the event that you wear runners. Check your trunk to see if you have left keys in there. It's easy for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They could be stolen when someone steals your vehicle.