How to Replace a Lost Car Key
Losing your car keys can be a huge trouble. Contacting your local dealer locksmith is usually the best option to begin. To create a replacement key, they'll require proof of ownership along with the original key.
This isn't always the most cost-effective way to travel.
Traditional Keys
Traditional car keys made of steel were once the most popular type of key for vehicles. They have grooves on both sides that fit into a matching set of slots on the ignition. The key is then inserted into the ignition and turned to get your car started. If you lose a traditional ignition key, it is less expensive than other types of keys to replace them.
You can contact an automotive locksmith to have a new traditional key made while you wait. They'll need the model and make of your vehicle and the year it was manufactured. The locksmith might also require to present proof of ownership to verify that you're authorized to purchase a new key.
If you have a more recent car, it's likely that you have a transponder key. They cost more to replace however, they are more safe from theft. The head of a transponder key has an electronic chip that communicates with the car's computer system to ensure that only the correct key can be used to start the car.
When a car is sold, the transponder keys' chips will be programmed with a specific code. Some use rolling codes that send a different code every time it's used, making it difficult for thieves to duplicate them. If you have a modern vehicle that has a transponder keys, you should always keep it in a safe location.
Transponder keys have a longer lifespan than traditional keys, however they are more expensive to replace should you lose them. You'll need to call your dealer for an alternate transponder key should you lose one. You'll need to provide your VIN 17-digit code that informs the dealer of the vehicle it's compatible with.
You'll also need to provide the serial number of the car. This number is located on a label that's located on the door of the driver 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 is lost or stolen.
Transponder Keys
If you own a car built in the last 20 years or so it is likely that your key contains transponder chips. These tiny pieces of technology are programmed to your particular car, meaning 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 is not compatible with its code.
These keys are ideal for your car as they can deter theft of cars. Historically, car thieves were able to simply touch two wires and use them to start the car, in a process known as hot wiring. Once cars began using transponder chip technology and transponder chips, it became much more difficult to steal the car as the burglar required the correct key in order to transmit the signal needed to start the car.
Luckily, if lost keys for car have a traditional key and you lose it, a locksmith local to you will cut you a new one right away and delete your old one from your car's system. On the other the other hand, if your car has an electronic transponder or fob key, then you will need to go to the dealership to have it replaced. The dealer will require your VIN (Vehicle ID Number) to purchase the correct key for your vehicle.
This is because they be required to verify that the key that they're requesting for you is paired with your specific vehicle in order to start it and unlock your doors. To get a replacement key, you'll need to show proof of ownership such as your registration or title. This kind of replacement might be a little more expensive, but it's worth it if you consider the possibility that your vehicle key was stolen. If you're worried about the cost, make sure to check whether your insurance or warranty will cover the cost. If not then you'll need to bring your vehicle to the dealership to be towed and then purchase it from the manufacturer.
Fob Keys
The newest kind of car keys are designed to act like remotes, letting drivers open the doors and start the engine without needing to insert an ordinary key into the ignition. They are also referred to as remote control or keyless entry keys, are generally less expensive to replace than the old, traditional variety. However, like any piece of technology used in the modern world they're not impervious to damage. They are also easy to lose and can stop working when they are moved around in your pocket or bag.
Fobs emit an electronic code that allows drivers to open and start their vehicle. When the fob is placed on a sensor in the car, the code is read and the doors will open and the engine starts. Some fobs come with additional features such as an option to summon the car (similar in function to the Tesla summon feature).
If you lose your key fob, the initial step is to ensure that your keys are not in a locked bag or purse. If they're not there and you don't have them, then look through your day to find where you may have lost them. Check your pockets, in any bags you carried with you, and also on counters or other surfaces. You may be able to locate your keys in a spot that you dropped them in or put them down briefly while you went to get something.
You can buy key fobs replacements on the internet, however they need to be programmed to your specific vehicle. Certain keys, like those used by Audi and Subaru, require visiting a dealership to have them reprogrammed to your specific key. The good news is that roadside assistance companies like AAA will often assist in this regard, 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 do the same thing at the dealer. It is also possible to replace the outer shell of some fobs with keys with the electronics in working condition. Check your auto club membership or insurance policy to see if this is covered.
Chipped Keys
Cars have become more technologically advanced over time, which has lead to more sophisticated keys for cars. Contrary to traditional keys that could be duplicated at a locksmith, the latest keys require a specially-designed machine to duplicate. This means it will be a bit more expensive to replace lost car keys when they are equipped with a chip inside the key.
If you lose your transponder chip key or it is stolen from you, you'll need to contact the local dealer to obtain an alternative. They can do this since they keep an archive of your security details and can pair the new chip with your car without much hassle. The process may take a couple of days, however, as the dealer will need to purchase the key from the manufacturer and it will likely take some time for it to arrive.
The good thing is that it's possible to have a duplicate of the transponder chip of your car by an expert locksmith. It is a little more difficult than taking your vehicle to a dealership however you'll save a lot of cash in the end. To obtain a duplicate key, you'll need the VIN number of your vehicle. This number is available on your insurance policy or on the sticker inside the jamb of the driver's door.
You'll also need an exact duplicate of your old key to take to the locksmith. The locksmith will be able to match the cuts made by the key. If you can't find the old key, you can try looking in the trunk and other places where it might be hidden. You can also search your pockets and bags. You never know where you left your keys or when they were taken out of your bag as you were looking for something else.
If you are unable to locate your car keys, then you should immediately start looking for them. To begin with, check to ensure that you did not leave them at home or in the office. Then, carefully go through your day to determine if you could have misplaced them. After you've checked your bags and emptied your pockets then it's time to apply more advanced search methods.