20 Trailblazers Setting The Standard In Lost Car Key Replacement
How to Find Your lost car keys with no spare Car Key Replacement
It's a fact of life that every car owner loses their keys at some point. It happens more often than people think, however, and it can be a huge hassle.
It is possible to replace lost car keys no spare car keys, depending on the type of key you own. If you have the VIN or proof of ownership you can have the most basic keys made at the local hardware store.
Retract your Steps
Losing your car keys is frustrating, especially when it happens at a busy time of day and you need to get somewhere. Fortunately, it's not the end of the world and there are a variety of ways to help you find your car key replacement.
The first thing you have to do is go back to where you started. This involves going back through the places you've been and looking around, both at home and work. This will help you locate the keys by noting when you last seen them.
If you can't find your car keys after retracing your steps, you'll need to call an auto locksmith or a local locksmith for assistance. They'll be able to make the new key for you and decode the existing locks on your vehicle to ensure that only the new key will be able to start it. They'll also remove the old key to ensure that if anyone manages to get it, they can't drive your car.
Before you call a locksmith or dealer, make sure that you have your vehicle identification number (VIN) available. This is a number that's located on your driver's side dashboard or door panel, and it will allow them to know what car you own so they can create keys that match.
Using Your Memory
You may be tempted panic at the thought of losing your car key lost no spare keys, but be calm. This will enable you to concentrate and thoroughly. Relax your eyes, close your eyes and use the power of your memory to remember where you found your car keys the last time. If you're having trouble remembering where they were, go back your steps once more and look for any clues that might have surfaced.
If you're not getting any luck you can contact a local locksmith or dealer for assistance. You'll need to provide them with information about your vehicle and the security system that it uses and they'll be able to create a replacement key that can be paired with your existing security chip. They'll also be able to provide you with preventive measures to avoid future key loss.
Verify Your Vehicle Identification (VIN).
Not too long ago, misplacing-or losing-your car keys was not a big problem. Call your local locksmith and obtain a new car key. However, as cars have become more technological and sophisticated, so have their keys, making them more difficult and expensive to replace. It's important to have an extra car key or to know the cost of replacing it in the event you lose yours.
The first thing you need to do when you lose a car key is to ensure that the lost key is actually missing. This can be done by checking the pockets of the jacket or pants that you wore last time you used your car, looking inside the back seat of your car, and even checking places that you would not normally look like the inside of a shoe or a purse. Look through your owner's manual to see if it has any special instructions on how to reset your key if it becomes dead.
If you have checked all the possibilities but are still unable to locate your car keys, it's time to contact a professional for a new one. Depending on the type of key you own (traditional, key fob, or switchblade) it could cost you anything from $50 to $200 to buy a new one. If you have a standard key, the locksmith will usually cut a new one and change it's programming to work with your vehicle. This is a cheaper option than the dealer's rates which could be as high as $320 to replace a lost key.
You'll have to contact your dealer and request that your car towed by them to allow them to obtain a new VIN-based key for your vehicle. They will then have to pair your new key to the vehicle electronically. This could be costly and a lengthy process. This is why it's a good idea to add Emergency Roadside Service from GEICO to your insurance, so you will have the assistance of a professional if you ever need it!
Make sure your vehicle's security system is working
No secret is that many modern vehicles come with advanced security features that safeguard the contents of the car from theft. These security features make it harder to replace keys for your car. There is still a possibility of getting an alternative key for these cars, however the process is more complex and costly. The cost will be according to the type of key your car is using, and you must be aware of prior to having one made.
The most straightforward type of car key to make a spare for is the classic double-edged car key that can be purchased at any hardware store, locksmith or car dealership. It will typically cost less than $10 and work just fine as a backup or to start the car in an emergency. More recent models of cars, however, utilize transponder chips inside the keys to control various aspects of the car, from locking and unlocking to turning on and off. These chips need to be programmed by a special machine, which is usually only available at some dealerships.
A locksmith in your area can assist you with a spare key for these advanced cars. They'll need the model and year of the car as well as other details (like your registration number or title) to verify that they are the owner of the vehicle. Certain locksmiths are able to make keys in-person, saving you the time of having to visit a dealer.
If you don't have a spare, the next best option is the dealership. They will be the most familiar with your particular vehicle and the keys needed to get it started. This can be expensive, however, and they won't be open for assistance at the roadside.
Try using a Bluetooth key tracker as an alternative that is affordable. These devices attach to your key ring and emit signals that you can connect with an app on your smartphone. The app will then inform you where your keys are, helping you find them, and stop them from getting lost in the first place!
Get a New Key
Every car owner loses their keys at some point or another. It can happen at the most awkward times, like at a gas station, or loading groceries into your trunk. Although it's simple to find your keys once again, it can be a very stressful situation when you don't i have lost my car keys an extra set at home or with your family.
There are still options to obtain a new key in the event that you've lost car keys what to do the original. The procedure will depend on the kind of key you have and the car you drive.
For instance, if you have a key that goes into an ignition lock cylinder it's easy to have a locksmith make a replacement on the spot. This is less than $200, and it's often quicker than getting one from the dealer.
If you have a key fob equipped with an external transmitter, you'll have to go to the dealer. The dealer will identify your details, and send you the correct key for a lower cost than you'd pay a locksmith.
A locksmith may also be able to make a replacement key using the VIN number of your car, as you have evidence of ownership like your registration or title. This is a cheaper alternative to going to an auto dealer however, it's not always possible if you have a newer or more expensive car.
It is best to have a spare set keys. Keep it in a safe location, like your home and you won't have to worry about putting it in a place when you leave your vehicle. Make sure to check your purses and pockets frequently, particularly if you wear a coat or jacket with large pockets. Don't forget to look at places that you would not normally reach, like 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 in there. It's easy to forget that you left them there and they're easily stolen if someone else leaves in your car.