How to Replace a Lost Car Key
Losing your car keys could be a big trouble. Contacting your local dealer locksmith is usually the best option to start. To make a replacement key, they'll require proof of ownership along with the original key.
This isn't always the most cost-effective method to travel.
Traditional Keys
Traditional car keys made of steel were once the most common type of key for vehicles. They have grooves that fit into slots within the ignition. The key is put into the cylinder of ignition and turned to start the car. It is less expensive to replace a traditional ignition key than other types.
You can contact an automotive locksmith to have a new traditional key made while you wait. The locksmith will need the year, model, and make of your vehicle. The locksmith may also need to present proof of ownership to verify that you are legally authorized to purchase a new key.
If you have a recent car, it's likely that you have a transponder keys. They are a little more costly to replace than traditional keys, but they're more secure from theft. The plastic head of the transponder key is equipped with an electronic chip that communicates with the computer system inside your car to make sure that it is only activated with the appropriate key.
The chips that are used in modern transponder keys are typically programmed with a specific code when the car is sold for the first time. Some use rolling codes, that send an updated code each time the key is used. This makes it more difficult for thieves to copy the code. If you have a modern vehicle with a transponder key that you keep, make sure to keep it in a secure location.
Transponder keys last longer than conventional metal ones, but are more expensive to replace in the case of the loss. You'll need to contact your dealer to get a replacement transponder key if you lose one. You'll need to supply your VIN which is a 17-digit number that tells the dealer which car it's compatible with.
You'll also have to provide your car's serial number. The serial number is located on a sticker on the door to the driver's side or an entry in your owner's manual. It is important to keep these numbers on hand since they can help find your car if it gets lost or stolen.
Transponder Keys
Your key could contain transponders if your vehicle was built within the past 20 years. These tiny bits of technology are programmed to your specific car, so only you are able to start it. To make sure that the correct key is used to start your car, your transmission will lock if it detects that the code in your key does not match its code.
These keys are a great feature for your car as they can deter theft from cars. Historically, car thieves were able to simply touch two wires and use them to start the car, in an operation called hot wiring. However, once cars began with transponder chips, it became more difficult to steal them as the thief needs to have the correct key to send the signal required to start your car.
Fortunately, if you own traditional keys and lose it, a locksmith in your area can cut you a brand new one on the spot and delete your old one from your vehicle's system. On the other side, if you own a transponder or fob key, you'll be required to visit the dealership to get it replaced. The dealer will require your VIN (Vehicle ID Number) to order the right key for your vehicle.
This is because they will have to make sure that the key that they're ordering for you is compatible with your particular vehicle in order to start it and unlock your doors. You'll also have to provide proof of ownership, such as your registration or title in order to get the replacement key from the dealer. This type of replacement can be more expensive, but it's worth it if you think about the possibility that your vehicle key was stolen. If you're worried about the cost, make sure to check whether your warranty or insurance will cover it. If not then you'll require bringing your vehicle to the dealership in order to have it towed, and then purchase it from the manufacturer.
Fob Keys
The latest kind of car key is designed to function like a remote, allowing drivers to open doors and start engines without having to insert traditional keys into the ignition. They are also referred to as keys that do not require keyless entry or remote control keys and are usually cheaper to replace than older, more traditional varieties. But, like lost keys for car of technology used in the modern world they're not impervious to damage. They're also easy to misplace and they can cease to function in time when they are moved around in your pocket or purse.
Fobs emit an electronic code that allows the driver to open and start the vehicle. When the fob is placed on the car's sensor, the code is read and the doors are opened and the engine starts. Certain fobs come with additional features, for instance, a button that calls the car (similar to the Tesla summon feature).
If you lose your key fob ensure that your keys aren't locked in a purse or bag that is secured. If they're not there you should go through your day to find where you might have lost them. Check your pockets, in bags you carried with you, and on counters or other surfaces. You might be able to locate your keys in the place you put them, or where you put them in your bag when you went to purchase something.
You can purchase replacement keys on the internet, but they need to be programmed to your specific vehicle. Some, like those used by Audi and Subaru will require a trip to the dealership to have them reprogrammed to your specific key. The good news is that roadside assistance companies like AAA will often assist with this, too.
If you do decide to purchase a new key fob, comparison shop. Some stores will cut and program a fob that was purchased elsewhere for less than they would charge to perform similar work at the dealer. It is also possible to replace only the outer shells of some fobs that are key, leaving the electronics inside 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 more more technologically advanced. This has resulted in more sophisticated keys. These newer keys cannot be duplicated by locksmiths. They require a specialized machine. This means it will be a bit more costly to replace lost car keys if they are equipped with a chip inside them.
If you lose your transponder chip key or it is stolen from you, you'll need to contact the local dealership to get an exchange. This is because they keep a record of security information on their system and can pair a new chip with your vehicle without much hassle. The process may take a few more days because the dealer has to order the key directly from the manufacturer.
A professional locksmith can create a duplicate of your transponder key. The process is a bit more complicated than simply going to the dealership however it will save you a lot of money in the long run. You'll need your car's VIN number to request an exact duplicate. This number is located on your insurance policy, or on the sticker on the driver's side door jamb.
You'll also need an exact copy of your old key to bring to the locksmith. The locksmith will then match the key cuts. If you are unable to find your old key, you can look in the trunk and other places where it could be hidden. Examine your bags and pockets. You never know where you put your keys or when they were taken out of your bag as you were searching for something other.
If you're unable to locate your car keys, you must immediately begin searching for them. First, you must check to make sure that you did not leave them at home or in the office. After that, take a look over your day to determine if they may have been misplaced. Once you've emptied all your pockets and inspected all of your bags, it is time to begin using more sophisticated search methods.