How to Get a Lost Car Key Replacement

Losing your keys can be a frightening and stressful experience. It's important to be calm and watch your surroundings (you might find them in your bag or on the floor).

Write down your vehicle identification (VIN) number to enable you to order an additional key. There are a number of ways to do this, however an auto locksmith is the most affordable.

1. Find your keys

One of the first things you need to do if you lose your keys is to locate them. This may sound easy, but it's often overlooked. It is possible to start by making a note of your steps. This will help you remember where you put your keys, and it could also uncover areas that you've had a hard to see. The human brain is inclined towards clearing areas, so don't be afraid to look into the corners and nooks of your house that you usually avoid.

You can also search for your local lost-and-found. If you have lost your key in a school, commercial establishment, or gym, someone may have found it and turned it into the office. Try to provide as much detail about the key as possible including what it looks like, its make and model, and any other information.

Contacting your dealer is a different option. You can usually get a new car key from your dealer but the cost will be in excess of $200. They can also cut and program your existing key so it works with your ignition. However, this process might require you to attach your current working key to them in order to be able to match the contours of both keys. This can be a major hassle if you're the rush to get back on the road.

2. Get a New Replacement

If you've lost keys for car your car keys and do not have a spare, replace it at a local dealership or auto locksmith. The cost will depend on the kind of key you have and how you lose it. If you lose a traditional double-edged car key a simple one that you put into the ignition to start your vehicle, you can obtain a replacement at a local hardware store for $10. It's not as easy to replace if you lose an electronic transponder, smart keys or key fob equipped with a switchblade key. These types of keys have an internal transmitter that communicates with your car to open the doors and start the engine.

These keys are designed to be more secure and difficult to duplicate than standard keys. If you own one of these, you'll need to visit an auto dealership that has the model and year you want in stock or a locksmith who can order the key 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.

Contacting a locksmith for your car who specializes in your vehicle is the best way to get a replacement key. They will know the year, model, and model of your vehicle and have the necessary equipment to make a replacement key.

3. Get Reprogramming

Car keys can disappear in coat pockets, on couch cushions, or even on their own. Finding a replacement for your key is one thing, but you still require it to be programmed to work inside the vehicle. A lot of DIY sites suggest that you can do this yourself. But it is not recommended to try this unless you're confident and have the appropriate equipment. This is a very complicated process and if you do it wrong, it could lead to an insecure security system or a damaged module.

Generally, you'll need to bring your vehicle to a locksmith or dealership to get it changed. You can save money by buying a third car key and cutting it by a professional locksmith. Then, follow the procedure for programming it, which is typically found in the owner's manual for your vehicle.

Before you begin to drive, lock all the doors and shut the windows. Sit in the driver's chair, insert the working key, and then turn it on, Lost Car Key Replacement but don't start the engine. Press the lock button on the third fob, and you'll hear a sound which indicates it has been successfully programmed. Repeat the procedure for each additional fob, until they are all programmed. This will ensure that the new keys will be able to unlock and start the vehicle.

4. Get a New Key

The warranty you have is not likely to cover the cost of replacing lost keys to a car keys that are lost key to car in your car. Roadside assistance programs, such as GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service, may assist you in replacing your car keys at affordable costs.

Determine the type of key you currently have. Locksmiths can easily replace a traditional metal ignition key. They will simply duplicate the key, then make use of a machine that follows the lines of the original to make a replacement. This process usually takes only one or two minutes.

Transponder keys are more complex since they are equipped with an embedded chip that must be programmed into your car. Locksmiths may be able to program them, but it's best to visit your local car dealership.

It is best to keep your spare car key in a secure location like your pocket at the time you leave home. You'll have a functioning vehicle even if you lose or steal another key. Check your insurance policy to determine if they can assist with replacing your keys. You'll save money if go through your auto dealer instead of an independent locksmith. GEICO provides roadside assistance at no cost to members who need help with their cars, including key replacement!