How to Replace a Lost Car Key
It can be a huge hassle to lose your car keys. Most of the time, the best way to begin is by calling your local locksmith or dealer. They will require evidence of ownership as well as the key that was used to make a new one.
However, this is not always the most economical method to take.
Traditional Keys
Traditional car keys made of metal were once the most common type of key for vehicles. They have grooves on both sides that fit into a matching set of slots inside the ignition. The key is then placed into the ignition and turned to start the car. If you lose a traditional ignition key, it is less expensive than other 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 model, make and year of your vehicle. The locksmith may also need to have proof of ownership to prove that you are legally authorized to purchase a new key.
Transponder keys are more prevalent in newer vehicles. They're more expensive to replace but they are also more safe from theft. The plastic head of a transponder key contains an electronic chip that communicates with your car's computer system to make sure that only the correct key is able to start it.
The chips that are used in modern transponder keys are generally programmed with a specific code when the car is first sold. Some have rolling codes, that send an updated code each time the key is used. This makes it difficult for thieves to copy them. If you own a modern vehicle that has a transponder keys it is recommended to keep it in a secure location.
Transponder keys last longer than standard metal keys, however they are more expensive to replace in the case of a loss. If you lose a transponder lock then you'll have to contact the dealer to get the replacement. You'll need to supply your VIN (a 17-digit number) which will tell the dealer which car it's compatible with.
You'll also need to provide your car's serial number. This number can be found on a sticker in the driver's door or an owner's manual. These numbers are crucial because they can help you find your vehicle in the event it is stolen or lost.
Transponder Keys
If you own a vehicle made in the past 20 years or so, it is likely that your key contains transponder chips. These tiny pieces of technology are programmed to your particular car so that only the owner of the vehicle can start it. The transmission will lock your vehicle if it senses the key does not match the code. This is to ensure that only the owner is able to start the vehicle.
These keys are an excellent feature for your car because they deter theft of cars. Hot wiring is a technique that thieves have used to start vehicles. However, when cars began using transponder chips, it became much more difficult to steal them since the criminal must have the correct key to send the signal needed to start your car.
If you have an old-fashioned key and lose it, a locksmith local to you can cut you a new one on the spot and delete your old one from your vehicle's system. If you have an transponder key or fob, you'll need to go to the dealer to purchase a new one. This is because the dealer needs to know your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) in order to order the appropriate key for your particular vehicle.
They must make sure that the key they buy for you is compatible with your vehicle to be capable of starting it up and open its doors. To obtain the replacement key, you will need to show proof of ownership like your registration or title. This could make this kind of replacement slightly more expensive however in the long run it is worth it when you consider that your car's key could be stolen. If you're worried about the expense, you should check whether your warranty or insurance will cover it. If not, you will probably need to bring your vehicle to the dealer to have it towed there and ordered from the manufacturer.
Fob Keys
The most recent type of car keys are designed to function like remotes, letting drivers open the doors and start the engine without having to insert traditional keys into the ignition. These fobs, also called keyless entry or remote control keys, are generally less expensive to replace than the older traditional versions. However, as with any other piece of consumer technology, they are not indestructible. They're also easy to lose and they can cease to function in time when they are jostled around in your pocket or purse.
Fobs emit a digital code that allows drivers to open and start their vehicle. When tapped against a sensor inside the vehicle, it detects that code and causes the doors to open and the engine to start. Some fobs come with additional features like an option to summon the car (similar in function to the Tesla summon feature).
If you have lost a key fob, the first step is to make sure that the keys aren't in an unlocked purse or bag. If read 're not there you should go through your daily routine to determine the places you could have lost the keys. You can also check your pockets, bags you may have had, or on surfaces like counters and other surfaces. You might be able to find your keys where they were left or even briefly put them in your bag when you went to get something.
You can purchase replacement key fobs on the internet, but they must be programmed to match your vehicle. Certain key fobs, such as those used by Audi or Subaru require to be programmed at the dealership. The good news is that roadside assistance companies like AAA are often able to assist with this, too.
If you do decide to purchase a new key fob, comparison shop. Some retailers will cut and program a fob bought elsewhere at a lower cost than they charge to do the same job at the dealer. It is also possible to replace only the outer shell of some fobs with keys with the electronics in working condition. Check your auto club membership or car insurance policy to see if this is covered.
Chipped Keys
Cars have become more technologically advanced in recent years, which has lead to more sophisticated keys for cars. These keys aren't able to be duplicated by locksmiths. They require a specialized machine. This means it could be a bit more costly to replace lost car keys if they have a chip in the keys.
If you lose your transponder chip key or it is stolen from you, then you'll need to contact the local dealership to get a replacement. This is because they keep a record of the security information in their system and can pair a new chip with your vehicle with no hassle. The process can take a few days however, since the dealer will have to obtain the key from the manufacturer, and it will likely take some time to get it.
A professional locksmith can create a duplicate of your transponder keys. The process is a bit more complicated than simply taking your car to the dealership, but it will save you a lot of money in the long run. You'll need your car's VIN number to get an exact duplicate. The VIN number can be found on your insurance policy, or on the sticker on the driver's side door jamb.
You will also need an exact copy of your old key to take to the locksmith. This way, the locksmith can match the cuts made by the key. If you are unable to locate your old key, look in the trunk or other places where it might be hidden. Take a look in your bags and pockets. You never know where you put your keys or if they fell out of your bag as you were looking for something other.
You must immediately begin looking for your car keys if you cannot find them. First, make sure that you haven't left them at home or at the office. Then, carefully review your day to determine if you could have misplaced them. Once you've emptied all of your pockets and checked all of your bags, it is time to begin using more sophisticated search methods.