How to Get a Lost Car Key Replacement
The loss of your car keys can be an incredibly scary and stressful event. It’s crucial to remain calm and keep an eye on your belongings (you may have keys in your bag or lying on the ground).
Then, you should write down your vehicle identification (VIN) number so that you can order an additional key. There are a variety of methods to accomplish this, but the most cost-effective option is an auto locksmith.
1. Find Your Keys
One of the first things you must do if you’ve lost your keys is to try and find them. It might seem simple, but it’s often not thought of. Start by retracing the steps that you did. This will aid you in remembering the exact location where you left your keys, and it may also reveal areas you have a difficult to see. The human brain tends to return to areas which are clear so don’t be afraid to explore the nooks and crannys of your home that you usually avoid.
You can also check your local lost-and-found. If you’ve lost your keys at a school, business establishment, or gym, someone might have found it and taken it into a office. Please provide as much information as you can about the key, such as its appearance, make and model.
Contacting your dealer is a different option. You can typically get an entirely new car key from your dealer, but the cost will be in excess of $200. They can also code and cut your existing key to work with your ignition. However, this option could require you to connect your current key to them in order to match the shape of both keys. This can be a hassle for those who are in a hurry to get back on your way.
2. Get a Replacement
If you’ve lost keys in car your car keys and do not have a spare, you can replace it at a local dealership or auto locksmith. The cost depends on the type of key you have and the way it was lost. If you lose the traditional simple, sus.ta.i.n.j.ex.k double-edged key that can be inserted into the ignition of your car to start it you can replace it at your local hardware store for about $10. It’s more difficult to replace should you lose a transponder, smart key, or key fob with switchblade key. These keys come with an internal transmitter that communicates with your car to open the doors and then start the engine.
These keys are designed to be more secure and harder to duplicate than conventional keys. If you have one of these keys, you will require a visit to a dealership that has your model and year, or locksmiths who can order it for you. If you have roadside assistance, they can also pair a brand new key with your vehicle for you if they have the correct code in their system.
The best method to obtain a replacement car key is to contact an auto locksmith that is specialized in the specific vehicle you own. They will know the year, the make and model of your car and will have the equipment to make a replacement key.
3. Reprogramming is available
Car keys have the ability to be lost in pockets of coats, under couch cushions, or just disappear. Finding a replacement lost car keys key one thing, but you need to have it programmed to work inside your vehicle. A lot of DIY websites advise you to do this by yourself. However it is best not to attempt it unless you are confident and have the right equipment. This process is extremely complicated and if done improperly, could lead to an unsound security system, or a broken module.
In most situations, you’ll need to take your car to the dealership or a locksmith to have it reset. You can save money by buying a third blank car key and having it cut by an experienced locksmith. Then, follow the directions in the owner’s manual to program the key.
Before you start the process, close all the doors and lock your vehicle. Sit in the driver’s chair Insert the working key and turn it on, but do not start the engine. Press the lock button on the third fob and you’ll hear a sound that indicates it has been successfully programmed. Repeat the process for each fob, until they’re all programmed. This will ensure that the new keys you’ve got will allow you to start your vehicle.
4. Get a new key
The loss of a car key isn’t normally covered by your warranty. Roadside assistance programs, such as GEICO’s Emergency Roadside Service, may assist you in replacing lost car keys your car key for a a reasonable price.
Find out which type of key you currently have. A locksmith can easily replace a traditional metal ignition key. They’ll simply duplicate the key and then use a machine for tracing the contours of the original key to create a new one. The process typically takes several minutes.
Transponder keys are more complicated because they contain chips and need to be programmed into your car. A locksmith might be able to reprogram them but it is recommended to visit your local car dealership.
It is recommended to keep your spare car key in a safe location like your pocket, when you leave home. This way, you’ll have a vehicle that works even when your primary key is stolen or lost. Examine your insurance policy to look into whether they will assist with replacing a lost car key your keys. You’ll save money if go through your auto dealer rather than an independent locksmith. GEICO provides roadside assistance at no cost to members who need help with their vehicles, including keys for replacement!