20 Reasons To Believe Replace Lost Car Keys Cannot Be Forgotten

How to Get a Lost Car Key Replacement

The loss of your car keys could be an incredibly scary and stressful situation. First, you must remain calm and keep an eye on you (you might have keys in your bag or lying on the ground).

You should then write down your vehicle identification (VIN) number so that you can order a new key. There are a number of ways to do this but an auto locksmith is the most cost-effective.

1. Find your keys

You should try to find your keys in case you've lost them. Although it may seem obvious, it is often forgotten about. Start by retracing the steps that you did. This can help you remember where you put your keys and can also uncover areas you weren't able to see. The human brain tends to return to areas that are clean, so don't hesitate to look around those places in your home that you typically avoid.

You can also search for your local lost-and-found. Someone may have found your key in the event that you lost it at a gym, school or in a business establishment. Try to provide as much detail about the key as possible -- what it looks like, its model and make model, as well as any other details.

Contacting your dealer is a different option. You can usually get a new car key from your dealer however, the cost could be more than $200. They can also code and cut the existing key to work with your ignition. However, this method might require you to attach your current working key to them to make sure they match the contours of both keys. This could be a big problem if you're in rush to get back on the road.

2. Get a Replacement

If you've lost key to car the car key and do not have a spare you can replace it at your local dealership or an Auto Keys R Us locksmith. The cost will depend on the type of key you have and the way you lose it. If you lose a conventional double-edged car key one that you can insert into the ignition to begin your car, you could obtain a replacement at a local hardware store for $10. If you lose an electronic key, transponder or fob that has a switchblade it will be more difficult to replace. Keys with embedded transmitter that communicates to your car to unlock doors and begin the motor.

The keys are designed to make them more secure and difficult to duplicate than standard keys. If you own one of these, you'll need to visit a car dealership that has the model and year you want in stock, or a locksmith that can order the key for you. If you have roadside help they can pair the new car key with you as long as they have the right code in their system.

Contacting a locksmith for your car who has a specialization in your vehicle is the best method to obtain a replacement car key. They will be aware of the year, make and model of your vehicle and will have the tools to make a replacement key.

3. Reprogramming is possible.

Car keys can disappear in coat pockets, couch cushions, or even on their own. Finding a replacement key is one thing, but you need to program it to work inside your vehicle. While many DIY sites suggest that you can do it yourself but it's not a wise idea to attempt it unless you've got the proper equipment and know what you're doing. This is a complicated process, and if you do it wrong you could end up with an insecure security system.

In general, you'll need take your car to a locksmith or the dealership to have it changed. If you want to save money, however, you can buy an additional blank car key and get it cut by locksmith. You can then follow the directions in the owner's manual for programming it.

Before beginning the process, shut all the doors and lock your vehicle. After that, sit in the driver's seat, insert an operational key and turn it to the off position, but don't turn on the engine. You will hear a ringing sound when you press the lock button on the third key fob. This means that it has been programmed successfully. Repeat the procedure for each additional fob, until they're all programmed. This will ensure that your new keys will be capable of unlocking and launching the vehicle.

4. Find a New Key

Your warranty usually does not cover the cost of replacing the car key that was lost. However, programs for roadside assistance (like GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service) may assist you in replacing lost car key your lost key at an affordable cost.

Find out which type of key you have. If you have a traditional metal key that goes into the cylinder that controls your ignition, it's simple to replace it with an automotive locksmith. They will simply duplicate the key and then employ a machine to trace the contours of the original key to create a new one. The process typically takes one or two minutes.

Transponder keys that contain a chip and need to be programmed in your car to work, are more complicated. A locksmith might be able to reprogram them but it is recommended that you visit the local dealership for your car.

The most effective way to ensure you don't lose a car key is to keep one spare and keep it somewhere secure, like in your pocket when you leave home. This way, you'll always be able to drive the other key gets stolen or lost. Examine your insurance policy to check if they provide assistance with replacing your keys. If it does, you'll save money by going through your auto dealer instead of an independent locksmith. GEICO provides free roadside assistance for Auto Keys R Us members who require assistance with their cars, which includes replacement car keys!