How to Replace a Lost Car Key
It can be a huge hassle to lose your car keys. The best way to begin is by calling your local locksmith or dealer. To create a replacement key, they will need proof of ownership and the old one.
However, this is not always the most cost-effective method to take.
Traditional Keys
Traditional car keys made of metal were once the most popular type of vehicle key. They have grooves on either side which fit into a set of slots in the ignition. The key is then put into the ignition and turned to get your car started. If you lose a traditional key, it will cost less than other types of keys to get a replacement.
You can contact an automotive locksmith to get a new traditional key made while you are waiting. The locksmith will need the make, model and year of your vehicle. The locksmith might also require to have proof of ownership to prove that you're legally authorized to purchase a new key.
If you have a recent vehicle, it's likely to have a transponder keys. car key lost replacement 're a bit more costly to replace than traditional keys, but they're also more secure from theft. The plastic head of a transponder key contains an electronic chip that communicates with your car's computer system to ensure that only the correct key is able to start it.
When a car is sold, the chips in transponder keys will be programmed using a code. Some have rolling codes, which send an updated code every time the key is used. This makes it harder for thieves to copy the key. If you own a modern vehicle with a transponder key that you keep, make sure to keep it in a safe place.
Transponder keys last longer than conventional metal keys, but they are more costly to replace in the event of the loss. You'll need to contact your dealer to get an alternative transponder key in the event that you lose one. You'll need to provide your VIN (a 17-digit number) which tells the dealer what car it's compatible with.
You'll also have to provide your car's serial number. The serial number is located on a sticker placed on the door to the driver's side or a card in your owner's manual. It is important to keep these numbers in your car since they can help locate your car in the event that it gets stolen or lost.
Transponder Keys
If you own a car manufactured in the past 20 years or so, it is likely that your key contains transponder chips. These tiny bits of technology are programmed to the specific car so that only the owner can start it. To ensure that the correct key is used to start your car, the transmission will lock when it discovers that the code in your key does not match its code.
These keys are excellent for your car as they can deter theft of cars. Historically, car thieves were able to simply touch two wires and use them to start your car using the process known as hot wiring. When cars started using transponder chip technology making it more difficult to steal a car as the burglar needed the right key to transmit the signal needed to start the car.
Luckily, if you have an old-fashioned key and lose it, a locksmith in your area can cut you a new one right away and remove the old one from the system. On the other hand, if you have a transponder or a fob key, then you will need to go to the dealership to have it replaced. This is because the dealer must know your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) to be able to purchase the appropriate key for your particular vehicle.
This is because they be required to verify that the key they're ordering for you is paired with your particular vehicle to be able to start it and open your doors. To obtain a replacement key, you'll need to prove ownership such as your registration or title. This can make this type of replacement slightly more expensive but in the end, it's worth it when you consider that your car's key could be stolen. If you're worried about the cost, make sure to check if your warranty or insurance will cover it. If not, you'll need to take your vehicle to the dealer to have it towed and purchase the key from the manufacturer.
Fob Keys
The most recent kind of car keys are designed to act like remotes, letting drivers open the doors and start the engine without having to insert traditional keys into the ignition. These fobs are also known as keys that do not require keyless entry or remote control keys and are generally cheaper to replace than older, more traditional versions. However, as with any other piece of consumer technology they're not a guarantee of durability. They are also susceptible to theft and cease to function as they move around in your bag or pocket.
Fobs emit an electronic code that enables the driver to open and start the car. When tapped against a sensor inside the car, it reads that code and causes the doors to open and the engine to start. Some fobs also have additional features, for instance, a button that summons the car (similar to the Tesla summon feature).
If you lose your key fob, the initial thing to do is to ensure that your keys are not in a locked bag or purse. If they aren't there, then go through your daily routine to determine where you might have lost the keys. You can also check your pockets, any bags you may have or on surfaces like counters and other surfaces. You may be able find your keys in the place they were left or even briefly put them where you were going to purchase something.
car keys lost replacement can buy replacement keys on the internet, but they must be programmed to match your vehicle. Certain keys, like the ones used by Audi and Subaru will require a trip to the dealership to get them reprogrammed to match your specific key. The good news is that roadside assistance companies such as AAA will often assist with this, too.
If you do decide to purchase a new key fob, comparison shop. Some retailers will cut and program a fob purchased elsewhere for less than what they charge to do the same thing at the dealer. It is also possible to replace only the outer shell of certain fobs that are key and leave the electronics inside in good working order. Check your auto club membership or insurance policy to see if this is covered.
Keys with chips Keys
Over the years, cars have become more and more advanced in terms of technology. This has resulted in more sophisticated keys. Contrary to traditional keys that could be duplicated at the locksmith, modern keys for cars require a specific machine to duplicate. This means that it can be a bit more costly to replace lost car keys if they have a chip in the key.
You will need to contact the local dealership should you lose your vehicle or get it stolen. This is because they keep an archive of your security information and can match the new chip to your car without much hassle. The process may take a few additional days due to the dealer having to purchase the key directly from the manufacturer.
A professional locksmith can make a duplicate of your transponder keys. It's more complicated than taking your car to a dealer, but you will save a lot of cash in the end. To get a duplicate key you will require the VIN number of your vehicle. You can find this number on your insurance policy or the sticker on the driver's door jamb.
You'll also require an original copy of your old key that you can bring to the locksmith. The locksmith can then match the key cuts. If you can't locate your old key, you can look in the trunk or other places where it could be hidden. Take a look in your bags and pockets. You don't know if you put your keys in a place or if you accidentally knocked them out of your bag while reaching for something other.
You should immediately begin looking for your car keys if you cannot locate them. To begin with, check to ensure that you did not leave them at home or at the office. Then, take a careful look through your day to determine if you could have misplaced them. After you've inspected your bags and emptied your pockets then it's time to apply advanced search techniques.