How to Find a Car Key Lost
Car keys are a huge problem when they're lost. Replacing keys can cost several hundred dollars, based on the type 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 require your vehicle identification number (VIN) and then visit a dealer to order a replacement smart key and have it paired to your car.
Identifying your keys
The loss of keys to your car is among the most stressful things that can happen to a driver. It can be difficult to know what to say when you can't locate your keys in your pocket or bag. It is best to remain calm and follow a step-by-step approach to finding your keys.
Begin by identifying the type of car key you own. If you have a conventional mechanical key, which only opens the locks, you can have a locksmith make copies at a reasonable price. You can also purchase an alternative from the dealer however, they tend to be more expensive.
Most newer cars have the smart key, which triggers the car's sensor for keyless entry and ignition. These keys are harder to lose due to an inbuilt feature that keeps an eye on the location of the key. Keep your smart key close to your side or you could find it difficult to locate.
Find your usual hiding places first, before moving to another place. Check in your coat pockets and in the shoes you're wearing, and in any bags you've had on you throughout the day. You could also consider walking back through the day and following your steps to determine the places you may have misplaced the key.
If you've exhausted your options to find your car keys, it's time to contact a locksmith or dealership to get help. If you have proof of ownership, they can offer you an alternative. You can also go to Home Depot to have a basic key copied for vehicles which doesn't have transponder chips.
It's always a good idea to have an extra key handy even if you don't lose them frequently. It's possible to do this in a number of different ways, but the most common is to give a duplicate key to someone in your family or a trusted friend. You can also buy a Bluetooth tracker to attach to your keys. The app will notify you where they are at any time.
Making a Copy
Keys are a vital component of a car and it's easy to lose. Many car owners find themselves in situations when they lose their keys or have them stop working at the worst time. The loss of keys can be frustrating and inconvenient, whether it's at the gas pump, loading groceries into the trunk, or after an exhausting day at work.
If replacement lost car keys have an extra key, this can be a lifesaver in these situations. If you don't have an additional key it is possible to easily and inexpensively make duplicates at many hardware stores or locksmiths. You should also keep an additional set of keys in your wallet in the case.
Many people believe that they must visit a dealership in order to get a new car key. However, this is not always the case. The complexity of the key and the kind you are using will determine how it works.
Modern cars come with keys that have more than just metal blades. They also have chips that must be programmed to allow the car to start. These aren't the kind of keys you can get cut at the self-service kiosk in the mall. They also won't work with other keys.
The most efficient method to create a key copy is to visit your local AutoZone and let an associate use a machine to detect the contours of the key. They will then match it to an uncut key and cut it for you. This is a very simple procedure that will take only about a couple of minutes to complete. Some locations have a device that can program your key to fit your car model.
Other places that can assist you with a car key copy include family-owned hardware stores, big box home improvement stores and a few chain stores. However, it is important to remember that the copies are only good for ignitions and doors and not remote key fobs. It is best to speak with locksmiths if you wish to duplicate a smart key, or a dealer's chip. The keys must be created by a professional who has the right equipment and tools.
Replacement
There are a few options for getting an alternative car key if it's lost. You can go to the dealership where the car is sold or to an automotive locksmith. Each option will cost a different amount. It is also contingent on the type of key your vehicle has. Some keys are simple double-edged key, while others are more complicated.
You can locate a list of car locksmiths in your area by conducting an online search. Look for one that specializes in cars and has an auto division. You can then contact them to inquire about a price for the production of a brand new key. Some companies have mobile units that can create keys in your area. This is very convenient when you have a conventional key that does not have a chip inside it.
Many cars today are equipped with key fobs that are an electronic device that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle from a distance. The fob is also used to start the engine and control other functions of your car. A fob can be very easily lost. You can prevent this by keeping an extra fob in your purse.
Dealerships can replace lost keys however it could be expensive. Many dealerships will charge a premium to replace your lost car keys. This is why many people prefer an automotive locksmith. Some of these companies specialize in the replacement of car keys, which can be a much cheaper alternative to going to the dealer.
If you have an electronic key, you'll need to bring your car back to the dealership in order to get it replaced. They will have to program the new key into your vehicle. This usually involves opening and closing doors and/or turning lights and electronics on and off. You will be asked to supply the VIN number of the car as well as a photo ID and any other keys you have.
It's a pain to lose your car keys, but even more so when you're on a the pressure of a strict schedule. There's no need to be worried. Just remember to search thoroughly for your keys, get the key-finder tag to ensure that they are easier to find, and consider getting a spare fob so that this situation doesn't occur again.
Get Help
We may lose our keys to our cars when we're distracted or in a state of forgetfulness. Whether you drop them in the river when fishing, or leave them at the restaurant when you're eating out These types of accidents happen and can be a hassle to manage. There are steps you can take to avoid this happening in the future, and to limit damage in the event of it happening.
Always keep an extra set of keys on hand. This will spare you the trouble of having to retrace your steps or pay for expensive locksmith services. Another alternative is to invest in a Bluetooth-based key-finder tag that can help you find your keys that have been lost quickly. These tags are available online for a reasonable price.
For those with older cars that use mechanical keys it is possible to get a new key cut at most hardware stores for just a couple of dollars. Many cars use key fobs with a lot technology. If they are lost, they can be expensive to replace.
If you have roadside insurance the insurance company could pay a locksmith to create an exact copy. Based on the type of key you have it could be less expensive than making a new key at the dealership.
You can also reach out to the dealership where you purchased your car to see if they are able to assist you in making an entirely new key. It may cost more than hiring a locksmith however it's more stress-free to work with a dealership you know.
The final option is to have a locksmith deprogram the old key, so that it no longer works. This can be a very risky process, so it's probably best to get a professional to handle this for you. Certain locksmiths can perform this without having to remove the key, however it's usually better to let a dealership do it so you can be sure it's done correctly.