How to Get Replacement Car Keys When They Disappear

Losing your car keys can cause a lot of anxiety particularly since you are unable to open or start your car without them. Be calm and repeat the steps you took to find your keys.

Many car dealerships are able to create keys for new cars and pair it with your vehicle. This can be costly.

Find a spare key

Sometimes car keys disappear in the most inconvenient places. Perhaps you're running a quick errand and forget to put them back on the seat, or maybe you're tired after a long day at work and put them in a place in a place where they're not accessible as you head home. It's frustrating to lose your keys. There are several ways to get a spare car key.

Whether your car uses a standard mechanical key or a contemporary key fob, getting a replacement is easy. You can purchase a brand new key at any auto shop or locksmith, and a majority of them can program the key to match your specific car. Some will offer to replace your key for free or at for a lower cost.

However, you might want to consider contacting your dealer for a replacement. Dealerships have records for every vehicle they sell. They'll be able quickly create a replacement key for you because they'll have your details. Dealerships typically charge more than auto locksmiths to make an exchange key. However, they're more convenient.

If you're using a modern car key fob, it might be more difficult to find your car keys. The devices emit a signal that triggers the car's security system. You can lock and unlock doors, or start the motor. You can contact your dealer to have a replacement key fob programmed in case you've lost it. However, this service could be costly and take some time to complete.


Alternately, you can try to reset your key. Sometimes extreme weather or sweat can cause keys to stop functioning properly. You can also reset your keys by looking up the owner's manual for your car and following the directions in it.

Be sure to record the year the model, year, and year of your vehicle prior to you start. The VIN number is unique to every vehicle, and you can find it on your registration papers or in the vehicle's owner's manual. This number is important to know prior to looking for your keys. It allows the key to be programmed for the correct car.

Contact your car dealership

There are several ways to replace lost car keys but a dealership is probably the best option. They are familiar with the models of cars they sell and have been trained to work on your vehicle's safety system. They also have access to all the parts and blanks needed for your particular model. This ensures your replacement key will work properly with the immobiliser in your vehicle. The dealer will not void your warranty in the event that you replace your car key.

Car dealerships typically charge more than locksmiths for their services, but they're able to replace the lost key fob quickly and effectively. This is a good option if you're in the midst of a crisis. It's expensive and time-consuming. You'll have to provide the model and make, the vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership.

Traditional car keys are made of metal keys that you put into the ignition key to start your car. The cost to replace these is usually less than $20, therefore you can easily get one made at a local hardware store. You can also use a locksmith to replace your car key however it is essential to know the cost prior to.

Another type of car key is the smart key which has a built-in proximity sensor that allows you to unlock and start your car when within range. They are more difficult to replace since they have to be programmed for your specific vehicle. If you own a Smart key, it's best to contact the dealership to get it replaced.

It's likely that your car dealer can replace keys to your car that have been lost, but they may require you to bring your car into the dealership for a personal consultation. It's difficult, but it's the most efficient way to replace the lost key. This is also the most cost-effective because a professional locksmith can come directly to you. You'll be required to provide your car's VIN year, model, as well as proof of ownership to get a new key made.

Contact a locksmith

The moment you realize that you've lost your car keys could be a frightening one. There are many things you can do to resolve the issue and avoid having to pay costly replacement costs.

Examine all possible places you might have put your keys. Clean out all your bags and pockets and check everything you touched during the day. You may have dropped your keys on the floor while reaching in your bag to grab something other.

If you are not at home, check the trunk of your vehicle. Many people leave their keys in the trunk, particularly when they're putting away groceries. You can also look under your seat and in the glove compartment for your keys. If you can't find your keys, call an expert locksmith or a hardware store that specializes in cutting keys for cars.

If you own an older vehicle, you may be able to get a standard key from a locksmith, or an hardware store for less than $10. However, newer cars have more sophisticated keys that require a locksmith equipped with special equipment to replace them. In some instances the cost of replacing these kinds of keys may be greater than the value of the vehicle itself.

Most cars from 1990 onwards come with a unique code for the key which is stored with the manufacturer. This code is used to create a replacement key for the owner. This process can be assisted by the dealer however, contacting a local locksmith is usually less expensive.

If you are unable to pay for the dealership, you can try obtaining a key from an auto locksmith or roadside assistance. If you're unable to afford the cost of a dealership, you could try to get keys from an auto locksmith or roadside assistance. Note down your VIN to obtain the correct key.

Contact your insurance company

In the past, up until some time ago the loss of a car key was not thought of as an issue of concern. You could get an alternative car key from most hardware stores and local locksmiths, or even your nearest car dealership. However, modern cars come with smart keys that have anti-theft features that make them more difficult to steal. This makes it more expensive to get lost car keys replaced. In fact, some newer models may cost up to $500 to purchase the replacement key.

The most affordable way to get the lost car key repaired is by using an auto locksmith. They are the quickest and most cost-effective solution. They can also help to program a new key and reprogram the immobilizer system. However, you should always be sure to compare prices before deciding on a locksmith. The cost of locksmiths can vary widely between different locksmiths.

Another option is to contact your insurance company. A lot of auto insurance companies offer key fob replacements as an added benefit to their policies. You should be aware, however, that the process can take some time and could be more expensive than paying for the service directly. Some car insurance companies charge a deductible prior to the company being able to pay for the replacement cost of your keys.

Whether lost car key replacement have a spare key or calling an locksmith, it is essential to inform your insurance company about the loss as soon as possible. This can prevent your vehicle from being stolen in the interim. You should also cancel all credit cards associated with the vehicle in the event that someone makes use of it for committing a crime.

The best thing you can do to safeguard yourself from financial troubles is to keep a spare key. It's also important to keep an eye on the level of fuel in your car and its batteries, to ensure that you don't run out of gas or charge the battery. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service is always available through the GEICO app. It's easy to add ERS- just log into the GEICO app and access our 24/7 helpline.