How to Find a Car Key Lost
Car keys are a big deal when they get lost. Replacing them can cost several hundred dollars, based on the kind of key and what features are included.
For traditional keys made of metal, you can typically locate a replacement at the hardware or locksmith store. You'll need your vehicle identification number (VIN) to go to a dealer to purchase a replacement smart key and to have it paired with your car.
Identifying Your Keys
The most stressful thing that could occur to any driver is the loss of their car keys. When you reach for your purse or pocket and cannot find keys, it's difficult to decide what to do. To locate your keys it's best to remain calm and follow a step-bystep method.
Begin by identifying the type of car key you have. You can obtain a duplicate of a mechanical key that only operates the locks from a locksmith for reasonable cost if you have one. You can also get a replacement key at the dealer, but it is usually more expensive.
The majority of modern cars have the smart key, which triggers a sensor in the car for keyless entry and ignition. They are also more resistant to theft, since they have a built-in feature that monitors where the key is. Keep your smart key close to hand or you may find it difficult to locate.
You should check your usual hiding spots before moving on to other areas. Check your coat pockets as well as shoes and bags you've carried throughout the day. You can also go back and trace your steps and walk through the day to see if you lost your key.
You should contact a dealership or locksmith for assistance if you have exhausted all your search options and are still unable to locate your car key. They can make a replacement for you as long as you can prove ownership. You can also go to Home Depot to have a basic key copied in the event that you own a vehicle which doesn't have transponder chips.
It's always recommended to keep an extra key handy, even in the event that you don't need them frequently. You can accomplish this in a variety of different ways one of which is to give the duplicate key to a family member or trusted friend. Another option is to invest in the Bluetooth key tracker, which can be positioned on your keys and linked to an app that will show you where your keys are at any given time.
Making copies
It's easy to misplace a key, which is an important part of your vehicle. Many car owners find themselves in situations where their keys get lost or stop working at the most inconvenient times. It doesn't matter if it's at the gas station, when loading groceries into the trunk, or after working for a long time, losing your keys can be very stressful and annoying.
If you have an extra key, it can be a lifesaver in these situations. If not have one, you can create copies of your keys quickly, easily and cheaply at most locksmith stores or hardware stores. It's also an excellent idea to keep an extra key in your wallet, just in case!
Many people believe that they need to visit a dealership in order to get a replacement car key. But, this isn't always the case. It's all dependent on the type of key you own, and how complex it is.
Modern cars have keys that are more than just blades of metal. They also have chips that require programming to turn on the car. These are not the type of keys you can cut at the self-service kiosks in the mall. car keys lost replacement don't work with other keys.
The easiest method of making an exact copy of a key is to simply visit your local AutoZone and ask an associate to use a machine that can discern the contours of the key. They will then match it up to an uncut key and cut it for you. This is a straightforward process that will only take you some minutes to complete. Some locations have a device that can program your key to match your car model.
You can also get copies of your car key from family-owned hardware stores, large chain stores for home improvement, and even some grocery stores. It is important to know that these copies only work on the ignitions and doors of your car and not the remote keys. It is recommended to get in touch with a locksmith to make a duplicate of the smart key or dealer chip key, since these can only be copied by a professional who has the proper equipment and tools.
Replacement
There are several options for getting a new car key if it's lost. You can visit the dealership that sells your car or visit an automotive locksmith. Each option will cost different amounts. It also depends on the kind of key your car has. Some keys are simple double-edged key and others are more complicated.
You can get a list of locksmiths for cars in your area by conducting an online search. Find a car locksmith that specializes in auto-related services and has an auto division. Contact them to request a quote for the creation of a new key. Some of them have mobile units that can visit your location and make you an exact key right there. This is a great solution if you already have an unlocked key that doesn't contain a chip.
A lot of cars today have keys that are tiny electronic device that lets you lock and unlock your vehicle from a distance. The fob is also used to start the engine and control other features of your vehicle. A fob can be very easily lost. You can prevent this by keeping an additional fob in your pocket.
Dealerships can replace keys that have been lost, but it can be costly. They may also charge you an extra fee for this service, which is why many people choose to go with an auto locksmith instead. Some of these companies specialize in repairing car keys, which can be a cheaper option than going to the dealer.
You will need to bring your car to a dealer to replace it with a smart-key. The dealer will program your new key. This typically involves opening and closing doors, or turning off/on electronics and lights. You will be asked to supply the VIN number of your car along with a photo ID as well as any other keys you have.
It's a pain to lose car keys, but more so when you have an extremely tight schedule. There's no need to panic. Just remember to search thoroughly for your keys, invest in a key-finder tag so that they are easy to locate, and also consider getting a spare fob so that this situation doesn't occur again.
Getting Help
Sometimes, we get distracted or forgetful and end up losing keys to our cars. These accidents can be frustrating in the event that you drop keys in a river when fishing, or lose them in the restaurant while eating. There are steps you can do to prevent this from happening again and to minimize damage should it happen.
Always keep an extra set of keys readily available. This will save you the trouble of having to go back to your steps or pay for a costly locksmith services. You can also invest in a Bluetooth key-finder tag to assist you in finding your keys. These tags are available online at a reasonable price.
Most hardware stores will cut a brand new mechanical key for customers who own older cars. A lot of cars have key fobs that are equipped with lots of technology. If you lose them key fobs, they can be expensive to replace.
If you have roadside assistance coverage the insurance company could provide a locksmith to visit and create new keys. This could be cheaper than getting a new key by a dealer, contingent on the kind of keys you have.
You can also reach out to the dealership where you bought your car to inquire if they are able to assist you in making the new key. This can be more expensive than working with a locksmith, but it could also be more relaxing to work with a dealership that you are familiar with.
The last option is to hire locksmiths deprogram the old key, so that it is no longer working. This can be a dangerous process, and it's recommended to have a professional do this for you. Some locksmiths are able to perform this without having to remove the key, but it is usually easier to let a dealership do it so you can be sure it's done correctly.