How to Replace a Lost Car Key
It can be a major problem to lose your car keys. Contacting your local dealer locksmith is typically the best method to start. To create a replacement key, they'll need proof of ownership and the old key.
However, this isn't always the most cost-effective method to take.
Traditional Keys
Metal car keys used to be the most commonly used. They have grooves that fit into slots within the ignition. The key is then placed into the ignition and turned to start your car. It is cheaper to replace a traditional ignition key than other kinds.
You can have a classic key made by an automotive locksmith while you wait. They will need to know the model and make of your vehicle, as well as the year it was made. The locksmith may also need to see proof of ownership to confirm that you're legally able to purchase a brand new key.
If you have a more recent vehicle, it's likely to have a transponder key. These are a bit more expensive to replace than conventional keys, but they're more secure against theft. The head of the transponder key has an electronic chip that communicates with the computer system inside your car to make sure that it can only be initiated by the right key.
When a car is sold, the chips inside transponder keys will be programmed with a code. Some use rolling codes, which transmit a new code every time the key is used. This makes it difficult for thieves to duplicate the code. If you own a modern vehicle with a transponder key, you should always keep it in a secure place.
Transponder keys have a greater life than traditional metal keys, but they are more expensive to replace should you lose them. You'll need to call your dealer to request an alternate transponder key should you lose one. You'll need to supply your VIN which is a 17-digit number that tells the dealer which vehicle it's compatible with.
You'll also have to provide the serial number of your car. The serial number is usually found on a sticker that is placed on the door of the driver or on a card in the owner's manual. These numbers are crucial because they can assist you in finding your car in the event that it is stolen or lost.
Transponder Keys
If you own a vehicle manufactured in the past 20 years or so, it is likely that your key contains a transponder chip. These tiny bits of technology are programmed to your particular vehicle so that only the owner of the vehicle 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 ideal for your car since they stop car theft. Hot wiring is a technique that thieves have employed to get cars started. 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 required to start your vehicle.
If you have traditional car keys and lose it, you can get a new one cut right on the spot by a locksmith local to you. The old key will be removed from your vehicle's system. On the other side, if you own a transponder or fob key, you will have to visit the dealership to get 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 have to make sure that the key that they are ordering for you is compatible with your particular vehicle in order to begin it and unlock your doors. To obtain an alternative key, you'll need to prove ownership such as your registration or title. This may make this type of replacement slightly more expensive but in the long run it's worth it if you consider that your car's key could have been stolen. If you're concerned about the expense, you should check whether your insurance or warranty will cover the cost. If not, you'll need to take your vehicle to the dealer to have it towed. You can also get the key from the manufacturer.
Fob Keys
The most recent type of car keys are designed to act as remotes, allowing drivers to open the doors and start the engine without needing to insert traditional keys into the ignition. These keys, also known as remote control or keyless entry keys, are generally cheaper to replace than older, traditional variety. They're not impervious to damage, but neither are any other electronic gadgets for consumers. They're also easy to lose and stop working over time as they are jostled around in your pocket or purse.
Fobs emit an electronic code that allows drivers to unlock and start their vehicle. When the fob is tapped on a sensor in the car the code is read and the doors are opened and the engine is started. Some fobs also have additional features, such as a button that calls the car (similar to the Tesla summon feature).
If you lose your key fob check to make sure your keys aren't locked in bags or purses that is secured. If they aren't there and you don't have them, then look through your day to find where you might have lost them. You can also look in your pockets, bags you may have, or on surfaces like counters and other surfaces. You may be able find your keys in the place you left them or briefly put them where you were going to buy something.
You can buy replacement key fobs on the internet, but they must be programmed to work with your particular vehicle. Certain key fobs, for instance those used by Audi or Subaru must be programmed by a dealership. The good news is that roadside assistance organizations like AAA can often help in this regard, too.
If you do decide to purchase a new key fob, comparison shop. Some retailers will cut and program a fob bought elsewhere for less money than for doing exactly the same thing at the dealer. It is also possible to replace only the outer shells of some fobs with keys and leave the electronics inside in good working order. Check your auto club membership or car insurance policy to determine whether this is covered.
Chipped Keys
In the past few years, automobiles have become more and more technologically advanced. This has resulted in more sophisticated keys. These newer keys cannot be duplicated by locksmiths. They require a specialized machine. It can be more expensive to replace the lost car key using a chip.
If you lose your transponder chip or it is stolen from you, then you'll need to call the local dealer to obtain a replacement. This is because they keep an archive of your security details and can pair the new chip with your car without much hassle. The process may take a few days, however, as the dealer will need to obtain the key from the manufacturer, and it will likely take some time for it to arrive.
A professional locksmith can make an exact duplicate of the transponder key. The process is a bit more complex than taking your car to the dealership but it can save you lots of money in the end. You'll need your vehicle's VIN number to get a duplicate. This number is located on your insurance policy or on the sticker on the driver's side of the door jamb.
You will need to bring a copy of the old key along. The locksmith will then match the key cuts. If you can't locate your old key, you can try looking in the trunk and other places where it might be hidden. Take a look in your bags and pockets. You never know where you put your keys or the possibility that they fell out of your bag as you were looking for something other.
If you're unable to locate your car keys, you must immediately begin looking for them. First, make sure that you don't have keys at home or at the office. Next, carefully review your day to determine if they may be lost. After replace lost car key 've checked your bags and cleaned out your pockets, it's time to use more advanced search methods.