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One Lost Car Key Replacement Success Story You'll Never Believe
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 people think however it can be a major inconvenience.

Fortunately the replacement of lost car keys is relatively easy, depending on what 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 proof of ownership.

Retract Your Steps

Losing your car keys can be difficult, especially when it happens at a busy time of the day and you're required to travel. Fortunately, it's not the end of the world, and there are several ways to help you locate the replacement car key you lost.

The first thing you need to do is retrace your steps. This means going back through the places you've been to and taking a look around, both at home and work. This will give you a good idea of the last place you recalled seeing your keys, and may guide you to where they could be.

If you can't find your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll want to call an auto locksmith or a local locksmith for assistance. They will be able create a new car keys for you, and also decode your existing locks so that only the key can start the car. They'll also remove the old key off your vehicle's system, so should someone manage to gain access to it the key, they won't be able to drive your vehicle.

Before you speak to a locksmith or dealer, make sure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) available. This number is located on the driver's door or dashboard. It will let them know what car you own so they can create a key that matches.

Using Your Memory

You may be tempted to fear losing your car keys, but be calm. This will allow you to think clearly and search thoroughly. Relax your eyes and close them. Then, use your memory to recall the last time you saw your keys. If you're having trouble remembering the exact location, retrace your steps again and look for any clues that might have surfaced.

If you're unable to solve the problem you can contact a local locksmith or dealership for assistance. You'll be required to provide details about your vehicle and the security system it has and they'll create a replacement key that is compatible with your security chip. They can also give you advice on how to prevent future key losses.

Check Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

Not too long ago losing or misplacing car keys wasn't a big issue. You could simply call your local locksmith and get a new key made. As cars evolved, so have their keys. This makes them harder to replace and costlier. This is why it's essential to keep a spare key around or at a minimum, know how much the dealership for your car will charge for a replacement in the event that you lose one.

The first thing you need to do when you lose a car key is to ensure that the lost key is indeed missing. Check the pockets of your pants or jacket as well as the back of your car, and other places you might not normally check like the inside of a purse or shoe. Also, you should look through the owner's manual to find out if there are specific instructions for the kind of key you have like how to reset it in the event that it goes dead.

If you've tried everything but you are still unable to locate your car keys, you should contact a professional to get a new key. The cost of a new key can vary from $50 to more than $200, based on the kind you own. If you have a standard key, the locksmith will typically cut a new key and change it's programming to work with your vehicle. This is a cheaper alternative to paying a dealer, who may charge up to $320 for a replacement key.


For a key fob or switchblade key, you'll have to contact your dealer and have the vehicle towed to them to order an additional key for your vehicle based on the VIN. Then, they'll need to pair your new key with your vehicle electronically. This can be a costly and time-consuming procedure. This is why it's a great idea to include Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your policy, so you can have the help of a professional should you ever require it!

Make sure replace lost car key is checked.

It's no secret that many modern cars come with fancy security features that help keep the contents of the vehicle safe from theft. While these security features are generally an excellent thing, they can also make keys for cars more difficult to replace. However, it's not impossible to find a new key for these cars, though the process is more involved and expensive than it was in the past. The exact cost will vary depending on the type of key your vehicle uses, which you should be aware of prior to having one made.

The most straightforward type of car key you can make a spare for is the classic double-edged key which can be re-used at any hardware store, locksmith, or car dealership. It will typically cost less than $10 and will work just fine as a backup or to start the car in case of emergency. Transponder chips are used in the latest models of keys to control various aspects of the vehicle, like locking and unlocking, turning on and off, and other functions. These chips must be programmed with a special machine, which is typically only available at some dealerships.

If you're in need of an additional spare for these advanced types of cars, a locksmith local to you should be able to help. They'll need the model and year of the car and other details (like your registration number or title) to confirm that they are the owner of the vehicle. Certain locksmiths are capable of making keys in-person which will save you the hassle of having to visit dealers.

If you don't have a spare, the alternative is to go to the dealership. They'll be the most knowledgeable about your car's model and the keys that are needed to get it started. This could be costly, however, and they won't be available for roadside assistance.

For a much more affordable alternative, try using a Bluetooth key tracker. These devices are attached to your key ring, emitting a signal you can connect to an app on your smartphone. The app will then provide you with the whereabouts of your keys, aiding you in finding them and prevent them from getting lost in the first place!

Find a New Key

Everybody 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. It's not hard to find your keys however it can be stressful if don't have an extra set of keys at home or with a companion.

There are still options for you to get new keys even if you've lost your original. The procedure varies based on your type of key and vehicle.

For example, if you have a key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder, it's easy to get a locksmith to make an immediate replacement. This option costs less than $200, and it's usually quicker than buying one from the dealer.

You will need to visit the dealer if you have an electronic remote with an external transmitter. The dealer will be able to find your details and provide you with the right key at a cheaper price than for a locksmith.

If you have proof of ownership, such as an official title or registration or registration, a locksmith might be able to make a new key using your VIN. This is a cheaper option to visiting a dealership. However, it may not be possible if your vehicle is newer or expensive.

It is best to keep a spare set of keys. Place it in a secure place, like your house in order to not need to think about leaving it somewhere when you leave your vehicle. It's also important to inspect your purses and pockets regularly, especially if you wear a coat or jacket with large pockets. Check places you might not usually reach, such as the inside of your shoes if you wear runners. Double-check your trunk if you have left the keys there. It's easy for you to forget about the keys in your trunk. They could be stolen when someone drives away in your vehicle.

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