Car Key Lost Replacement
The loss of your car keys can cause a lot of anxiety. With a little patience and the right steps and some help from a professional you can easily find a replacement key.
First, check every possible place you can think of: check your pockets, purse, the back seat. Find the nearest authorized dealership of the manufacturer of your vehicle.
Metal keys from the past
If you lose your car keys, the first thing to do is to contact an locksmith and ask them to make you a new set. This is a lot less expensive than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer, and will be more secure.
You can also make use of an old-fashioned steel blank key, like the keys used on house doors and are available at many hardware stores and locksmiths. The locksmith will utilize the key code from the owner's manual for your vehicle to connect the key to the ignition and locks.
Another option is to have your car towed back to the dealer in order to have it reset-keyed. You'll need your vehicle identification number (VIN) which is located on the driver's side doorpost or in the trunk. It may also be engraved on a plate mounted on the dashboard of the driver’s side. They will then combine the new key to your car's computer so that it will not function if you lose it once more.
If you own an transponder key, the dealer will also require reset of the immobiliser to pair it up with the new key. This is a more complex process and will cost more. You might be able to get a discount from the dealer if you have lost the car keys. It is worth asking for a price.
automotive key replacement are expensive to replace as they appear nothing like a traditional car key, and they operate remotely. They can start your car and start the engine with just pressing a button, and they are much harder for thieves to duplicate than older models of car keys.
A spare car key is a great way to save money on replacements. However, not everyone keeps one in their possession. Consider getting a keyfob for your vehicle if you are prone to lose things.
Fobs
Fobs cost more than metal keys, and they can be integrated into sophisticated security systems for vehicles. They're also not indestructible. Like any tech item that spends a significant amount of time in pockets of people they are susceptible to being dropped, smashed, or exposed to extreme temperatures. They may cease to function or break at any point. Batteries must also be replaced on a regular basis.
If you lose your car fob, you'll need to find a locksmith or a dealership that is specialized in your kind of vehicle. Locksmiths can usually duplicate and program fobs for cars. However, you might also be required to provide your vehicle's VIN (usually located on the dashboard or in the driver's door jamb). You could be able save money if the car warranty or roadside coverage policy covers the loss or theft of a key.
In the case of more recent cars and high-end brands, such as Mercedez, you may only be able to get replacement key fobs at the dealership. This is because the manufacturer holds exclusive rights for technical and security expertise.
Most key fobs are easily replaced and inexpensively if you own spare. A lot of hardware stores sell them, and some specialize in key duplication for automotive keys.
While there's no guarantee that you'll be able locate your lost item, you can take steps to increase the odds of finding it, including placing an AirTag or Tile AirTag on it, and using a smartphone app to assist you in finding it. Follow your steps back to when you last remember having it, and then check the lost-and-found records of any business or floors you visited.
Always try to discover what happened to your old one before you buy the new model. Did it fall into a crack? Was it thrown out on the street? Did you leave it in a restaurant or in the back of a taxi? If yes, you might be able to reclaim it. If not, you'll have to get a new one -and pay for towing fees.
Smart Keys
Even the most diligent of us may lose our car keys. It could be as simple as placing them in the fridge while grabbing an alcoholic beverage or forgetting to lock them in the trunk while loading groceries. It is important to be prepared for any scenario that may arise, including the event that your car keys are lost.
The first option, and most affordable is to contact an auto locksmith. They typically have all the tools required to complete the task and can provide you with a new key in a fairly short time. They can also assist with other issues that affect your vehicle, like opening a door that's been locked or starting the vehicle.
Asking your car dealer for help is another option, especially when your car is equipped with smart-key systems. This type of key transmits an low-frequency signal to the antennas embedded in the vehicle to confirm that the driver is within opening the car or even starting it. How Stuff Works Electronics reports that it stores the settings of each driver's for their seat, mirrors and steering wheel.
These systems are susceptible to hackers who may detect the signal. This could result in your vehicle being stolen, or, worse yet, used as an excuse to drive away. Fortunately, some models, such as Mercedes-Benz smart keys, employ different frequencies to avoid this from occurring.
Another alternative is to call a roadside assistance provider or your insurance provider for your car. If you are covered by their terms and conditions, they may be able to provide the replacement. However, these services can be costly and take time to arrive.
In addition to being a convenient and efficient method of avoiding losing your car keys, this type of key can also be an excellent method to keep an extra key in case of emergencies. You never know when you'll need a ride to home from the store, and having a spare will give you peace of mind if you're on the move.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are very common in vehicles built in the past 20 years. Also known as a "chip key" this is an anti-theft device that makes it difficult to wire hot wires into your vehicle. These keys send a signal to the computer system in your vehicle whenever you insert them into the ignition. If it detects the signals, it will be able to start the car. This will protect your family car or luxury vehicle from being stolen, and you'll know that you are the only driver. These keys are more expensive than a standard non-transponder key but the added security is well worth the price.
Contact your local locksmith if you have lost your transponder keys. They have the tools to replace keys on most vehicles and charge less than dealerships.
If you decide to purchase from a dealer, you'll be required to bring your old key fob so they can purchase an alternative. This could take several days and cost a lot of money.
Another option is to have an extra key cut by a locksmith. They can cut all key types and can even copy a switchblade type key (which comes with a built-in lock) however they won't be able to program it for your car. This is a viable option if there are no other spares however, it's not ideal.
The last alternative is to contact the car dealership directly and ask them to order you an additional key fob/transponder key for your car. This will usually take some time and will be the most expensive option of all.
Lost car keys are a hassle however, they don't need to be as bad as they seem. You can quickly get back on the road with the help of a professional. They can also protect your vehicle from thieves. Keep an extra car key in your bag or pocket and be aware of where you are when driving.