12 Companies Leading The Way In Lost Car Key Replacement

How to Find Your Lost Car Key Replacement
It's a fact that everyone loses car keys at some time. It happens more often than people think however it is a huge trouble.
Fortunately, replacing lost car keys is relatively easy, depending on what type of key you have. The most basic keys can be made at a local hardware store if 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 and you need to get somewhere. Fortunately, it's not the end of the world and there are a number of ways you can help you find your car key replacement.
You should first retrace all your steps. You can do this by returning to the places you've been to and taking a look around, both at home and at work. This will give you an idea of the last place you've seen your keys and could lead 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 a local locksmith or dealership to get help. They'll be able to make a new key for you and also decode the existing locks on your vehicle, so that only the new key is able to start it. They'll also remove the old key, so that if someone does manage to obtain it, they aren't able to use your vehicle.
Before you call a locksmith or dealer ensure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) available. This number is found on the driver's door or dashboard. It will allow them to know what vehicle you drive, so they can make keys that are compatible with.
Making Use of Your Memory
You may be tempted to be scared of losing your car keys However, keep your cool. This will allow you to think clearly and search more thoroughly. Relax your eyes and close them. Then, use your memory to remember the last time you saw your keys. If you're struggling to remember where they were, go back your steps and search for any clues that may have surfaced.
If you're experiencing issues, call a locksmith or dealership near you for assistance. You'll need to provide them with information about your vehicle and the security system it has, and they'll be able to make a replacement key that can be paired with your existing security chip. They'll also be able to give you suggestions on how to prevent any future loss of keys.
Verify Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).
It wasn't long ago that misplacing or losing keys to your car were not a major issue. Call your local locksmith and find a replacement car key. As cars have evolved and sophisticated, so have keys. This makes them more difficult to replace and also more expensive. This is why it's crucial to always keep an extra key in your car or at a minimum, know the amount your car dealership will charge for a replacement if you lose one.
The first thing to do when you lose your car keys is to confirm that the lost key is indeed missing. This can be done by looking in the pockets of the jacket or pants that you wore last time you used your car, looking inside the back seat of your vehicle, and even checking places that you would not normally look like the inside of a shoe or a purse. Also, you should check your owner's manual to see if there are any special instructions for the kind of key you own for example, how to reset it if it dies.
If you've checked everything but still cannot find your car keys, it's time to call a professional for the replacement. Depending on the type of key you have (traditional keys, key fobs, or switchblade) it can cost you between $50-$200 to purchase an alternative one. If you own a traditional key, the locksmith will typically cut a new key and reprogram it to fit your vehicle. This is less expensive than the dealer's price that can be as much as $320 to replace the lost key.
You'll need to contact your dealer and request that your vehicle towed to them so they can obtain a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. Then, read here 'll need to pair your new key with the vehicle electronically. This can be a costly and lengthy procedure. It's a great idea to include Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO to your policy to allow you to receive expert assistance if you need it!
Make sure your vehicle's security system is working
It's no secret that a lot of modern cars have fancy security features that are designed to keep the vehicle's contents safe from theft. While these security features are generally an excellent thing, they can also make keys for the car more difficult to replace. It is still possible to obtain keys for replacement for these cars, however the process is more complicated and costly. The exact cost will vary according to the type of key your vehicle uses, which you should be aware of before getting one made.
The easiest type of car key you can create a spare key for is the classic double-edged car key that can be purchased at any locksmith, hardware store or car dealership. The cost is usually less than $10, and it will work perfectly as a backup key or to start your car in an emergency situation. Transponder chips are utilized in the most recent models of keys to control various aspects of the vehicle, including locking and unlocking, turning on and off, and other functions. The chips have to be programmed using a specific machine, which is generally only available at some dealerships.
If you're looking to create an extra for these more advanced models of cars, a locksmith local to you should be able to help. They will need the model and year of the vehicle, along with some other details (like your registration number or your title) to verify that they are the owner of the vehicle. Some locksmiths are capable of making keys in-person which will save you the hassle of going to an agent.
If you do not have a spare, the alternative is the dealership. They are the best place to ask because they know the car and the keys you need to start it. This could be costly, however, and they won't be available for assistance on the road.
Try an Bluetooth key tracker as an alternative that is affordable. These devices attach to your key ring and emit a signal that you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will show you the whereabouts of your keys, helping you locate them and prevent them from being lost in the first instance!
Get a New Key
Everybody loses their keys at some point. It can happen at the most awkward times, like at a station or loading groceries into your trunk. It's not difficult to find your keys, but it is stressful if you do not have a spare set of keys at home or with a friend.
There are ways to obtain a replacement key if you've lost your original. The process is different based on your type of key and the vehicle you are using.
For instance, if have a key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder, it's relatively simple to get a locksmith to make a replacement on the spot. This is less than $200 and can be completed much faster than buying one from a dealership.
If you have a key fob equipped with an external transmitter, however, you'll need to visit the dealer. The dealer will locate your information, and then send you the correct key at a lower price than you would pay to a locksmith.
A locksmith might also be able create keys for replacement using the VIN of your vehicle, so long as you have evidence of ownership like your registration or title. This is a less expensive alternative than going to a dealer. However, it might not be possible when your car is older or expensive.
The best way to prevent losing your keys is having a spare. Keep it in a safe place, such as your home, so that you don't have to be concerned about losing it when you leave your vehicle. It's also important to inspect the pockets and purses frequently especially if you're wearing a coat or jacket with large pockets. Don't forget to look at places you wouldn't normally reach, like the inside of your shoes, especially if you're on runners. Finally, be sure to double-check the trunk of your car if you have put the keys in there. It's easy to forget you put them in there and they could easily be stolen if a driver leaves in your car.