How to Replace a Lost Car Key
Losing your car keys could be a major problem. 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 isn't always the cheapest way to go.
Traditional Keys
Traditional car keys made of metal were once the most popular type of vehicle key. They have grooves on both sides that can be inserted into a set of slots on the ignition. The key is placed into the cylinder for ignition and then turned to start the car. If you lose a traditional key, it can cost less than other keys to replace them.
You can have a traditional key made by an automotive locksmith while you are waiting. They'll need the make and model of your car and the year it was made. The locksmith may also require proof of ownership in order to verify your eligibility to purchase a key.
If you own a more recent car, it's likely that you have a transponder keys. They're a bit more expensive to replace than traditional keys, but they're 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 usually programmed with a specific code when the car is sold for the first time. Some of them use rolling codes that send an individual code each time they are used, making it very difficult for thieves to duplicate the key. You should always store your transponder keys in a secure place if you own a modern vehicle with one.
Transponder keys last longer lifespan than traditional keys, but they're more expensive to replace should you lose them. If you lose a transponder key then you'll have to contact the dealer to request the replacement. You'll need to provide your VIN, a 17-digit number that tells the dealer which vehicle it's compatible with.
You'll also need to provide the serial number of your vehicle. This number can be found on a sticker placed on the door to the driver's side or a card in your 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 car built 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 the specific vehicle so that only the owner is able to start it. To ensure that the correct key is used to start your car, the transmission will be locked in the event that it finds that the code on your key is not compatible with its code.
They are a fantastic feature for your car as they deter theft of cars. Hot wiring is a method that thieves have employed to get cars started. When cars began to use transponder chips and transponder chips, it became much more difficult to steal a car since the criminal required a key that was the right one to send the signal to start the vehicle.
Luckily, if you have a traditional key and you lose it, a locksmith in your area will cut you a new one right away and delete your old one from the system. On the other hand, if you have a transponder or fob key, you will need to go to the dealership to get it replaced. This is because the dealer must know your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) in order to purchase the correct key for your specific vehicle.
This is because they need to ensure that the key they're ordering for you is paired with your particular vehicle in order to begin it and unlock your doors. To get an alternative key, you will need to prove ownership, such as your registration or title. This can make this type of replacement a little more expensive but in the end, it is worth it when you consider that your car's key could be stolen. If you're worried about the cost, make sure to check whether your insurance or warranty will cover the cost. If not, you'll have to bring your car to a dealer to have it towed. You can also get the key from the manufacturer.
Fob Keys
The latest kind of car keys are designed to function as remotes, allowing motorists to open the doors and start the engine without having to insert traditional keys into the ignition. These fobs, also called remote control or keyless entry keys, are typically cheaper to replace than the old, traditional variety. However, like replacing lost car keys of consumer technology they're not impervious to damage. They're also easy for people to lose and stop working in time when they are jostled around in your purse or pocket.
Fobs emit an electronic code that enables the driver to open and start the vehicle. When a sensor is tapped inside the car, it reads the code and causes the doors to open and the engine to begin. Some fobs come with additional features such as an option to summon the car (similar to the Tesla summon feature).
If you lose your key fob, the initial step is to make sure that the keys aren't in the locked compartment of your purse or bag. Then, if they are not in the bag, go through your day and see the places you might have lost the keys. You can also check your pockets, bags you may have, or on surfaces such as counters and other surfaces. You may be able find your keys in the spot that you dropped them in or put them down briefly while you went to pick something up.
You can buy replacement key fobs online, but they must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Certain keys, like the ones used by Audi and Subaru need a trip to the dealership to get them reprogrammed to match your specific key. There's good news! Roadside assistance firms like AAA can assist you with this.
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 exactly the same thing at the dealer. Certain key fobs can be replaced by replacing only the outer shell leaving the electronics in good in good working order. Check your auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether this is covered.
Keys that are chipped Keys
Over the years, cars have become increasingly technologically advanced. This has led to more sophisticated keys. These newer keys cannot be duplicated by a locksmith. They require a special machine. This means it could be a bit more costly to replace lost car keys when they're equipped with chips in the key.
You will need to contact your local dealership if you lose or lose your vehicle. This is because they keep a record of the security information in their system and can pair the new chip to your vehicle without too much hassle. The process could take a few days however, because the dealer must obtain the key from the manufacturer and it will likely take some time to receive it.
The good news is that it's possible to get an exact duplicate of the transponder chip of your car by an expert locksmith. It's a bit more complex than taking your car to a dealership, but you will save a lot of cash in the end. To obtain a duplicate key, you'll require the VIN number of your vehicle. You can find this number on your insurance policy or on the sticker in the driver's door jamb.
You'll need to bring a copy of the old key along. The locksmith will then match the key cuts. If you are unable to find the old key, then check the trunk and other places where it could be hidden. You can also check your pockets and bags. You never know where you put your keys or if they fell out of your bag as you were searching for something else.
You must immediately begin searching for your car keys if you are unable to locate them. First, make sure that you don't have them at home or at the office. After that, take a look over your day to determine if they could have been misplaced. After you've checked your bags and cleaned out your pockets, it's time to use more sophisticated search techniques.
