How to Replace a Lost Car Key
Losing your car keys can be a major hassle. Contacting your local dealer or locksmith is typically the best method to start. To create a replacement key, they will need proof of ownership as well as the old one.
This is not always the most cost-effective method to travel.
Traditional Keys
Traditional metal car keys were once the most common type of vehicle key. replacing lost car keys have grooves on either side that can be inserted into a set of slots in the ignition. The key is then inserted 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 obtain a replacement.
You can have a traditional key made by an automotive locksmith while you wait. They'll need to know the make and model of your car, as well as the year of its manufacture. The locksmith may also require to present proof of ownership to verify that you're authorized to purchase a new key.
If you own a more recent vehicle, you probably have a transponder keys. They're a bit more costly to replace than traditional keys, but they're also more secure from theft. The head of the transponder keys has an electronic chip which communicates with the computer system inside your vehicle to ensure that it can only be activated by the correct key.
The chips in modern transponder keys are usually programmed with a specific code when the car is first sold. Some of them use rolling codes which transmit an updated code each time the key is used. This makes it more difficult for thieves to duplicate the code. It is important to keep your transponder keys in a safe location if you own an automobile equipped with one.
Transponder keys last longer than standard metal keys, however they are more costly to replace in the event of an eventual loss. If you lose a transponder lock you'll need to call the dealership to obtain the replacement. You'll need to provide your VIN 17-digit code that informs the dealer about the vehicle it's compatible with.
You'll also need to provide your car's serial number. The serial number is located on a sticker placed on the driver's side door, or an entry in your owner's manual. It's important to have these numbers handy since they can help locate your car if it is lost or stolen.
Transponder Keys
Your car key may have transponders if your vehicle was built within the last 20 years. These tiny pieces of technology are programmed to the specific car so that only the owner of the vehicle can start it. The transmission will lock your car when it determines that the key isn't matching the code. This is to ensure that only the owner has the right to start the car.
These keys are ideal for your car since they can deter theft of cars. Hot wiring is a method that thieves have used to start cars. However, when cars began using transponder chips, it became more difficult to steal them as the person who steals them must possess the correct key to transmit the signal needed to start your car.
Luckily, if you have an old-fashioned key and lose it, a locksmith in your area can cut you a brand new one right away and remove the old one from the system. On the other the other hand, if your car has a transponder or a fob key, then you will be required to visit the dealership to get it replaced. This is because the dealer must know your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) in order to order the correct key for your specific vehicle.
This is because they have to make sure that the key they are ordering for you is compatible with your vehicle in order to begin it and open your doors. You'll also need to provide proof of ownership, such as your registration or title in order to receive the replacement key from the dealership. This could make this kind of replacement a little more expensive but in the long run it's worth it when you consider that your vehicle's key could be stolen. If you're concerned about the expense, you should check if your warranty or insurance will cover it. If not then you'll need to bring your vehicle to the dealership to have it towed there and ordered from the manufacturer.
Fob Keys
The most modern kind of car key has been designed to function as a remote, allowing drivers to open doors and start engines without needing to insert traditional keys into the ignition. These keys are also referred to as keyless entry keys or remote control keys. They are typically cheaper to replace than older, more traditional models. But, like all pieces of consumer technology they're not impervious to damage. They are also easily lost and cease to function as they move around in your bag or pocket.
Fobs emit an electronic code that allows drivers to open and start their car. When a sensor is tapped inside the car, it reads the code and allows the doors to open and the engine to start. Certain fobs include additional features, such as a button that summons the car (similar to the Tesla summon feature).
If you have lost your key fob, check to make sure your keys aren't in bags or purses that is locked. Then, if they are not in your possession, look through your day and see where you may have lost them. You can also look in your pockets, in any bags you may have had, or on surfaces like counters and other surfaces. You may be able find your keys where they were left or even briefly put them in your bag when you went to purchase something.
You can buy replacement keys on the internet, however they need to be programmed for your 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 companies such as 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 that was purchased elsewhere for less than what they charge to perform similar work at the dealer. It is also possible to replace the outer shell of some key fobs, leaving the electronics inside in good working order. Check your auto club membership or insurance policy to determine if this is covered.
Chipped Keys
Cars have become more technologically advanced over time which has resulted in more sophisticated car keys. Unlike traditional keys, which could be copied at a locksmith, the latest keys require a specially-designed machine to duplicate. It is more expensive to replace a lost car key with a chip.
If you lose your transponder chip or it is stolen from you, you'll need to call the local dealership to get a replacement. This is because they keep a record of security information on their system and can match the new chip to your vehicle without much hassle. The process can take a couple of days, however, as the dealer must order the key from the manufacturer and it may take a bit of time to receive it.
A professional locksmith can create an exact duplicate of your transponder keys. It's more complicated than taking your car to a dealership however, you'll save a lot of cash in the end. To obtain a duplicate key you will require the VIN number of your vehicle. This number can be found on your insurance policy or on the sticker inside the jamb of the driver's door.
You'll need an original copy of the key along with you. The locksmith will then match the key cuts. If you're unable to locate your old key, then check the trunk or other places where it might be hidden. You can also check 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 else.
If you are unable to locate your car keys, you must immediately begin looking for them. First, make sure that you don't have them at home or at the office. Then, take a close look at your day to determine if they could be missing. After you've cleaned all your pockets and inspected all of your bags, it's time to move on to more advanced search methods.