How to Replace a Lost Car Key
It can be a major trouble to lose your car keys. Contacting your local dealer locksmith is typically the best option to begin. They'll need evidence of ownership as well as the key that was used to make a new one.
However, this isn't always the cheapest option.
Traditional Keys
Traditional metal car keys were the first type of vehicle key. They have grooves on both sides that fit into a matching set of slots in the ignition. The key would then be placed into the cylinder of ignition and then turned to start the car. If you have lost a traditional key it will cost less than other types of keys to get a replacement.
You can have a classic key made by an automotive locksmith while you are waiting. The locksmith will need the make, model and year of your vehicle. The locksmith might also require to present proof of ownership to verify that you're legally authorized to purchase a new key.
If you own a more recent vehicle, you probably have a transponder keys. They're more expensive to replace however, they are more secure against theft. The plastic head of the transponder key is equipped with an electronic chip which communicates with the computer system inside your car to make sure that it can only be initiated with the appropriate key.
The chips in modern transponder keys are generally programmed with a specific code when the car is first sold. Some have rolling codes, which transmit an updated code every 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 place if you own an advanced vehicle equipped with.
Transponder keys last longer than standard metal keys, however they are more expensive to replace in the case of the loss. You'll need to contact your dealer to get an alternate transponder key should you lose one. You'll need to provide your VIN, a 17-digit number that informs the dealer about the vehicle it's compatible with.
You'll also need to provide your car's serial number. car key lost replacement is located on a sticker in the door of the driver or on the owner's manual. These numbers are crucial as they can help you find your vehicle in the event that it is stolen or lost.
Transponder Keys
Your key could contain a transponder if your car was manufactured within the last 20 years. These tiny bits of technology are programmed to your specific car, so that only you can start it. Your transmission will be locked on your car when it determines that the key does not match the code. This is to ensure that only the owner can start the vehicle.
These keys are ideal for your car as they can deter theft of cars. Traditionally, car thieves could simply connect two wires and use them to start your car in a process known as hot wiring. When cars began to use transponder chip technology and transponder chips, it became much more difficult to steal a car since the criminal required the correct key to transmit the signal needed to start the vehicle.
If you have a traditional car key and have lost it, you can have a new one cut on the spot by a locksmith in your area. The old key will be removed from your vehicle's system. If you own a transponder key or a fob, you'll need to visit the dealership to purchase a new one. This is because the dealer needs to know your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) in order to purchase the correct key for your specific vehicle.
This is because they will have to make sure that the key that they're requesting for you is compatible with your specific vehicle in order to begin it and open your doors. To get a replacement key, you will need to provide proof of ownership like your registration or title. This could make this kind of replacement a bit more expensive but in the long run it is worth it when you consider that your car's key could have been stolen. If you're concerned about the cost of replacing your lost car key, check to see if it is covered under your car insurance or warranty. If not, you will probably need to bring your vehicle to the dealer to be towed and ordered from the manufacturer.
Fob Keys
The most recent type of car keys are designed to work as remotes, allowing drivers to open the doors and start the engine without having to insert traditional keys into the ignition. They are also referred to as keyless entry or remote control keys, are generally less expensive to replace than older, traditional variety. However, as with any other piece of technology used in the modern world, they are not indestructible. They're also easy to lose and they can cease to function over time as they are jostled around in your purse or pocket.
Fobs emit a digital code that allows drivers to open and start their car. When the fob is tapped on a sensor in the car, the code is read and the doors open and the engine is started. Some fobs come with additional features, such as an option to summon the car (similar in function to the Tesla summon feature).
If you have lost your key fob, check to make sure your keys aren't in the bag or purse that is locked. If they aren't there, then go through your day to see where you may have lost them. You can also search in your pockets, bags you may have had or on surfaces like counters and other surfaces. You may be able locate your keys in a place where you dropped them or placed them on the floor briefly when you went to pick something up.
You can buy replacement keys on the internet, however they must be programmed to your specific vehicle. Certain key fobs, for instance those used by Audi or Subaru must be reprogrammed at the dealership. The good news is that roadside assistance organizations like AAA are often able to assist with this, too.
If you do decide to purchase a new key fob, comparison shop. Some stores will cut and program a fob bought elsewhere for less than what they charge to perform the same thing at the dealer. It is also possible to replace only the outer shell of some fobs that are key and leave the electronics inside in good working order. Check your auto club membership or car insurance policy to determine whether this is covered.
Keys that are chipped Keys
Over the years, cars have become more more advanced in terms of technology. This has led to more sophisticated keys. Unlike traditional keys, which could be copied at the locksmith, modern keys require a specially-designed machine to duplicate. It is more expensive to replace the lost car key using chip.
If you lose your transponder chip key or it is stolen from you, then you'll need to contact the local dealer to obtain an exchange. This is because they keep a record of the security information in their system and can match a new chip with your vehicle with no hassle. The process could take a few days, however, because the dealer will have to purchase the key from the manufacturer and it will likely take some time to receive it.
A professional locksmith can create a duplicate of the transponder key. The process is more complex than taking your car to the dealer, but it will save you a lot of money in the end. You will need your vehicle's VIN number to request an exact duplicate. You can find this number on your insurance policy or on the sticker inside the jamb of the driver's door.
You'll also require an exact duplicate of your old key that you can bring to the locksmith. The locksmith can then match the key cuts. If you are unable to locate your old key, then look in the trunk or other places where it might be hidden. Examine your bags and pockets. You don't know if you put your keys somewhere, or if you knocked them out of your bag while reaching for something other.
You must immediately begin searching for your car keys if you are unable to find them. First, make sure that you haven't left keys at home or at the office. After that, take a look over your day to determine if they might be lost. After you've checked your bags and cleaned out your pockets It's time to employ more advanced search methods.