How to Replace a Lost Car Key
The loss of your car keys can be a huge hassle. The best way to begin is by calling your local locksmith or dealer. To create a replacement key, they will need proof of ownership and the old one.
This isn't always the most cost-effective option to travel.
Traditional Keys
Traditional metal car keys were once the most popular type of vehicle key. They have grooves on either side that can be inserted into a set of slots on the ignition. The key is placed into the cylinder for ignition and turned to turn off the car. If you lose a traditional ignition key, it will cost less than other types of keys to obtain a replacement.
You can call an auto locksmith to have a brand new traditional key made while you wait. The locksmith will need the make, model and year of your vehicle. The locksmith may also require to see proof of ownership to verify that you are authorized to purchase a new key.
If you have a more recent car, it's likely that you have a transponder keys. They're more expensive to replace however, they are more secure from theft. The plastic head of a transponder key has an electronic chip that communicates with the car's computer system to ensure that only the correct key is able to start it.
When the car is sold the transponder keys' chips will be programmed with a specific code. Some have rolling codes, which transmit an updated code each time the key is used. This makes it more difficult for thieves to copy the key. It is important to keep your transponder keys in a secured place if you own an automobile equipped with one.
Transponder keys have a longer life than traditional metal keys, however they are more expensive to replace should you lose them. If you lose a transponder lock you'll need to call the dealership to obtain an alternative 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 need to provide the serial number of your car. The serial number is usually found on a sticker that is placed on the driver's door or on a card in the owner's manual. It's important to have these numbers in your car as they can help you locate your car if it gets lost or stolen.
Transponder Keys
Your key could contain an electronic transponder if the car was manufactured in the last 20 years. These tiny pieces of technology are programmed specifically for the specific vehicle, ensuring that only you can start it. Your transmission will be locked on your vehicle if it senses the key does not match the code. her explanation is to ensure that only the owner can start the car.
These keys are an excellent feature for your vehicle as they can deter theft from cars. Hot wiring is a method that car thieves have used to start cars. Once cars began using transponder chip technology making it more difficult to steal your car since the criminal required the correct key in order to send a signal to start the car.
If you have a traditional key and you lose it, a locksmith local to you can cut you a new one right away and erase the old one from your car's system. On the other hand, if you have a transponder or a fob key, you will have to visit the dealer to have it replaced. This is because the dealer must know your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) to be able to purchase the appropriate key for your particular vehicle.
They'll need to make sure that the key they buy for you is compatible with your vehicle in order to be able to start it and open its doors. To receive the replacement key, you'll need to provide proof of ownership such as your registration or title. This may make this type of replacement slightly more expensive, but in the end, it's worth it when you consider that your vehicle's key could have been stolen. If you are concerned about the cost of replacing your lost car key, you should see if it is covered under your warranty or car insurance. If it isn't it is likely that you will need to bring your vehicle to the dealership in order to have it towed, and then order 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 needing to insert traditional keys into the ignition. These fobs are also known as keys that do not require keyless entry or remote control keys and are generally cheaper to replace than older, more traditional varieties. They're not impervious to damage however, neither are other electronic gadgets for consumers. They're also easy for people to lose and they can cease to function over time as they get jostled around in your pocket or purse.
Fobs emit a digital code that allows drivers to unlock and start their vehicle. When the fob is placed on the car's sensor, the code is read and the doors open and the engine starts. Certain fobs include additional features like a button that summons the car (similar in function to the Tesla summon feature).
If you lose your key fob check to make sure your keys aren't locked in the bag or purse that is locked. Then, if they are not in the bag, go through your day and consider where you might have lost the keys. You can also check your pockets, any bags you may have or on surfaces like counters and other surfaces. You might be able to find your keys in the spot where you dropped them, or put them down briefly when you went to pick something up.
You can buy replacement keys online, but they must be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Certain key fobs, for instance those used by Audi or Subaru require to be reprogrammed at the dealership. Good news! Roadside assistance companies such as AAA can help you with this.
If you do decide to purchase a new key fob, comparison shop. Some retailers will cut and program the fob they purchase elsewhere for less than they would for the same thing at the dealer. Certain key fobs may be replaced by replacing only the outer shell and leave the electronics in good working order. Check your auto club membership or insurance policy to determine if this is covered.
Keys that are chipped Keys
Cars have become more technologically advanced in recent years which has resulted in more sophisticated keys for cars. These newer keys cannot be duplicated by a locksmith. They require a special machine. This means it will be a bit more costly to replace lost car keys if they have a chip in the keys.
You'll need to contact the local dealership should you lose your vehicle or have it stolen. They can do this since they keep an archive of your security details and can match the new chip to your vehicle with no hassle. The process may take a few more days as the dealer needs to order the key directly from the manufacturer.
A professional locksmith can make an exact duplicate of your transponder keys. The process is more complex than taking your car to the dealership however it will save you a lot of money in the end. In order to get an additional key, you will require the VIN number of your vehicle. The VIN number can be found on your insurance policy or on the sticker on the driver's side door jamb.
You will also need an exact copy of your old key that you can bring to the locksmith. This way, the locksmith will be able to match the cuts made by the key. If you can't locate your old key, you can look in the trunk and other places where it could be hidden. Examine your bags and pockets. You don't know where you hid your keys, or when they were taken out of your bag as you were reaching for something else.
If you're unable to locate your car keys, you must immediately begin looking for them. First, ensure that you don't have them at home or at the office. Then, carefully go through your entire day to determine whether you've lost them. After you've cleaned all your pockets and inspected all of your bags, it's time to begin using more advanced search methods.
