How to Find a Car Key Lost
When car keys are lost, it's a major problem. Replacing them can cost a few hundred dollars, based on the type of key and the features are included.
For traditional metal keys, you can typically locate a replacement at a locksmith or hardware store. You'll require your vehicle identification number (VIN) to visit a dealer to order a replacement smart key and get it paired to your car.
Identifying Your Keys
The most stressful thing that could happen to any driver is losing their car keys. It can be difficult to know what to say when you are unable to find your keys in your bag or pocket. It's best to remain calm and take a step-by-step approach to finding your keys.
Start by identifying which type of car key you have. You can get a copy of an electronic key that can operate the locks from a locksmith for an affordable cost If you own one. You can also purchase a replacement from a dealership, but they are usually more expensive.
Most modern cars come with a smart key that triggers an internal sensor to allow keyless entry and ignition. They are also more difficult to lose, as they have a built in feature that keeps track where the key is. Keep your smart key close at hand or you may be unable to locate it.
Check your usual hiding places first, before moving to another place. Check your pockets in your coat as well as in your shoes and in any bags you've carried throughout the day. You could also walk back through your day and retracing your steps to see the places you may have misplaced the key.
You should contact a dealer or locksmith for assistance if have exhausted all your search options, but you are still unable to locate your car key. If you have proof of ownership, they can make you an replacement. If you have a car without transponder chips, you can have an initial copy made at Home Depot.
Even if you don't lose your keys often it is an excellent idea to keep a spare key on the go. You can accomplish this in a variety of different ways one of which is to give a duplicate key to someone in your family or a trusted friend. Another option is to invest in an Bluetooth key tracker. It can be placed on your keys and connected to an app that will tell you where your keys are at any time.
Making a copy
A key is a crucial component of a car and it's easy to lose. Many car owners are in situations where keys are lost or don't work at the most inconvenient times. It doesn't matter if it's at the gas station, or when loading groceries into the trunk or after working for a long time Losing your keys can be extremely frustrating and inconvenient.
If you have a spare key, this can be a lifesaver in these situations. If not, you can make a copy of your keys quickly, easily and cheaply at most locksmith stores or hardware stores. You should also keep an additional set of keys in your wallet just in case.
Many people believe that they need to go to a dealership to obtain an alternative car key. However, this is not always true. The complexity of the key and the type you are using will determine how it works.
The majority of modern automobiles have keys that are more than metal blades - they have chips in them which require programming to begin the engine. They are not the kind of keys you can get cut at the self-service kiosks located in the mall. They also won't work with other keys.
The easiest way to make the key copy is to visit your local AutoZone and have an associate use a machine to discern the contours of the key, then match it up to a blank key and cut it for you. This is a very simple procedure that will take only a few minutes to complete. Some locations have a device that can program your key to fit the car model you have.
Other places that can help you with copies of your car keys include family owned hardware stores, big box home improvement stores, and a few chain stores. It is important to remember that the copies are only good for ignitions and doors not remote key fobs. It is a good idea to get in touch with a locksmith to create a duplicate of an electronic key or dealer chip key, as these can only be duplicated by a professional using the right tools and machines.
Replacement
There are a variety of options when you lose your car key. You can go to the dealership where your car is sold or visit an automotive locksmith. Each option will cost a different amount. It also depends on the kind of key you own. Some keys are simple double-edged key and others have more intricate.
Online searches can help you find locksmiths for cars in your area. Look for one that specializes in cars and has an auto division. Then you can contact them to get a quote for the creation of a new key. Some companies have mobile units which can create keys at your location. This is a great option for when you already have keys that do not contain a chip.
Many automobiles today come with key fobs that are a small electronic device that lets you lock and unlock your vehicle from an extended distance. The fob is also used to start the engine and control other features of your car. A fob is easy to lose. You can prevent this from happening by keeping an additional fob in your pocket.
The dealership can replace your lost keys to your car however, they can be costly. Many dealerships will charge a premium for replacing your lost car keys. This is the reason why many people opt for an automotive locksmith. Some of these firms specialize in replacing keys for cars. This could be a cheaper alternative than going to a dealer.
If you have an electronic key, you'll need to bring your car back to the dealer to have it replaced. The dealer will have to program your new key. This typically involves opening and closing doors, and/or turning on lights and electronics and off. You'll need your car's VIN number along with a photo ID as well as the other set of keys are with you.
The loss of a car key is always a source of frustration however, it can be even more frustrating when you are on a tight schedule and you need to get somewhere. There's no reason to panic, however. Just remember to search thoroughly for your keys, purchase a key-finder tag so that they are easier to locate, and also consider purchasing a spare key fob to ensure that this doesn't happen again.
Get Assistance
We may lose our car keys when we're distracted or in a state of forgetfulness. These incidents can be a source of frustration when you accidentally drop them in a river while fishing or lose them in an eatery while eating. There are ways you can avoid these scenarios from happening in the future, and to minimize the damage when they do happen.
Always keep a spare set of keys readily available. This will save you the hassle of having retrace your steps or pay for expensive locksmith service. Another alternative is to purchase a Bluetooth-based key-finder tag that can help you find your lost keys quickly. These tags are available online for a reasonable price.
replacing lost car keys will cut a new mechanical key for customers who own older cars. Many cars use key fobs that are equipped with lots of technology. They can be expensive to replace in the event of losing them.
If you have roadside assistance insurance, the insurance company may pay for a locksmith to make new keys. Depending on the type of key you have it could be less expensive than having a brand-new key created at an auto dealer.
You can also contact the dealership where you bought your car to inquire if they are able to assist you in creating a new key. This could be more expensive than working with a locksmith, however it could also be more relaxing to deal with a dealer you trust.
The final option is to hire a locksmith deprogram the old key so that it doesn't work anymore. This is a risky procedure, so it's recommended to get a professional to handle this for you. Some locksmiths can complete this without taking the key apart, but it's usually easier to have a dealership do it for you so that you can be sure it will be done correctly.