How to Replace a Lost Car Key
Losing your car keys could be a huge problem. Most of the time, the best place to start is by calling your local locksmith or dealer. They will need to see proof of ownership as well as the old key in order to create a new key.
This is not always the most cost-effective method to travel.
Traditional Keys
Metal keys for cars were once the most common. They have grooves that fit into slots within the ignition. The key would then be inserted into the cylinder for ignition and then turned to start the car. If you have lost a traditional key it is less expensive than other keys to obtain a replacement.
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 verify that you're legally authorized to purchase a new key.
If you own a more recent vehicle, you probably have a transponder key. They're more expensive to replace but they are also more safe from theft. The head of the transponder key has an electronic chip which communicates with the computer system of your car to make sure that it is only initiated with the correct key.
When lost key is sold the chips in transponder keys will be programmed with a code. Some of them employ rolling codes that send a different code every time they are used, making it difficult for thieves to duplicate them. If you have a modern car with a transponder key, you should always keep it in a safe location.
Transponder keys last longer than traditional metal ones, but are more expensive to replace in the case of a loss. You'll need to contact your dealer for a replacement transponder key if you lose one. You'll need to supply your VIN (a 17-digit number) which will tell the dealer what vehicle it's compatible with.
You'll also have to provide the serial number of your vehicle. This number is located on a sticker that is placed on the driver's door or the owner's manual. These numbers are important because they can help you find your car in the event that it is stolen or lost.
Transponder Keys
Your key may contain a transponder if your car was manufactured in the last 20 years. These tiny pieces of technology are programmed to your particular vehicle so that only the owner of the vehicle can start it. To make sure that the correct key is used to start your car, your transmission will be locked when it discovers that the code on your key is not compatible with its code.
These keys are ideal for your car as they stop car theft. Historically, car thieves could simply connect two wires together and use them to start your car using an operation known as hot wiring. However, once cars started with transponder chips, it became much more difficult to steal them because the criminal must have the right key to send the signal needed to start your car.
If you own a traditional car key and have lost it, you can get a new one cut on the spot by a locksmith in your area. The old one will be deleted from the vehicle's 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 will need to know your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) in order to order the right key for your vehicle.
This is because they will need to ensure that the key that they are ordering for you is compatible with your vehicle in order to start it and unlock your doors. To get the replacement key, you will need to provide proof of ownership like your registration or title. This can make this type of replacement a little more expensive, but in the long run it's worth it if you consider that your vehicle's key could be stolen. If you're concerned about the cost of replacing your car key, make sure to whether it is covered under your car insurance or warranty. If not, you'll need to take your car to the dealer to have it towed. You can also purchase the key from the manufacturer.
Fob Keys
The latest type of car key is designed to function like a remote, allowing drivers to open doors and start engines without the need to insert traditional keys into the ignition. These fobs, also called keyless entry or remote control keys, are generally less expensive to replace than the older traditional versions. They are not indestructible, but neither are any other consumer electronics. They're also easy for people to lose and stop working over time as they get jostled around in your purse or pocket.
Fobs emit an electronic code that allows the driver to unlock and start the vehicle. When a sensor is tapped inside the vehicle, it detects that code and causes the doors to open and the engine to start. Certain fobs come with additional features, like a button that calls the car (similar to the Tesla summon feature).
If you have lost a key fob, the first thing to do is to ensure that your keys are not in the locked compartment of your purse or bag. If they're not there you should go through your daily routine to determine where you might have lost them. Look in your pockets, in bags you carried with you, and also on countertops or other surfaces. You might be able to locate your keys where you left them or briefly put them where you were going to purchase something.
You can buy replacement keys on the internet, however they need to be programmed for your vehicle. Some, such as those used by Audi and Subaru will require visiting a dealership to have them reprogrammed to match your specific key. There's good news! Roadside assistance companies like AAA can help you with this.
If you do decide to purchase a new key fob, comparison shop. Some retailers will cut and program a fob purchased elsewhere for less than they would for similar things at the dealer. Certain key fobs may be replaced by replacing only the outer shell, leaving the electronics in good working condition. Check your auto club membership or insurance policy to see if this is covered.
Chipped Keys
As time has passed, cars have become more more advanced in terms of technology. This has led to more sophisticated keys. These newer keys cannot be duplicated by a locksmith. They require a special machine. It is more expensive to replace a lost car key with a chip.
You will need to contact your local dealership if you lose or have it stolen. This is because they keep a record of the security information in their system and can match a new chip with your vehicle without much hassle. The process can take a few days, however, as the dealer must order the key from the manufacturer, and it will likely take some time for it to arrive.
A professional locksmith can make a duplicate of the transponder key. It's more complex than taking your car to a dealership however you'll save money in the end. To get 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 on the driver's side of the door jamb.
You'll need to bring a copy of the old key along with you. This way the locksmith can match the key cuts. If you're unable to locate your old key, you can try looking in the trunk and other places where it could be hidden. Check your pockets and bags. You never know where you left your keys, or when they were taken out of your bag while you were looking for something other.
You should immediately begin looking for your car keys if they aren't there. locate them. First, you must check to ensure that you didn't leave them at home or at the office. Then, carefully go through your entire day to determine whether you've lost them. After you've inspected your bags and emptied your pockets then it's time to apply more sophisticated search techniques.