How to Find a Car Key Lost
If keys to your car are lost, it's a major issue. Replacing them can cost a few hundred dollars, based on the type of key and the features are included.
For traditional keys made of metal you can typically locate a replacement at a locksmith or hardware store. You'll require your vehicle identification number (VIN) and then go to a dealer to purchase an alternative smart key and get it paired to your car.
Identifying your keys
The most stressful thing that can occur to any driver is losing their keys to their car. It can be confusing 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 find your keys.
Start by identifying which type of car key you own. If you have a conventional mechanical key that controls the locks it is possible to get a locksmith to make duplicate keys at a low price. You can also purchase a replacement from a dealership, but they are usually more expensive.
Most modern cars come with a smart key that activates an internal sensor to allow keyless entry and ignition. They are less likely to lose since they have an inbuilt feature that keeps an eye on the location of the key. Keep your smart keys close at your side or you could find it difficult to locate.
It is recommended to check your usual places of hiding first before you move on to other places. Examine your pockets for coats or shoes, as well as any bags you've carried throughout the day. You can also go back and trace your steps back throughout the day to determine if you lost your key.
It is recommended to contact a dealership or locksmith for assistance if you have exhausted all options, but you are still unable to locate your car key. They'll make a replacement for you, provided that you can prove ownership. If you have a car without transponder chips, you can also have an initial copy made at Home Depot.
It's always a good idea to have an extra key in your bag, even if you don't lose keys often. You can do this in a number of different ways one of which is to give the duplicate key to an individual in your family or a trusted friend. Another alternative is to purchase the Bluetooth key tracker, which can be placed on your keys and connected to an app that will show you where your keys are at any given time.
Making copies
Keys are a vital part of a vehicle, and it's easy to lose. Many car owners find themselves in situations where their keys are lost or are not working 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 a long day at work Losing your keys can be extremely frustrating and annoying.
The good news is that if you have an additional key, it could help in these instances. If you don't have an extra key, you can easily and cheaply create duplicate keys at most hardware stores or by locksmiths. You should also keep an extra set of keys in your wallet in the case.
Many people believe that they need to visit a dealer to get a brand new car key. This is not always the situation. The complexity of the key and the type you are using will determine how it functions.
Most modern cars have keys that are more than just metal blades - they contain chips that require programming in order to start the engine. These are not the kind of keys that you can simply cut at a self-serve kiosk in the mall, and will not typically work with other keys.
To make a copy of a key, you can visit your local AutoZone. A representative will utilize a machine analyze the contours on the key. They will then match it to an uncut key. It's a simple procedure that takes just a few moments to complete. Some locations even have a device that can program the key for your specific model of car.
You can also find copies of your car key from family-owned hardware stores, large chain of home improvement stores, and even some grocery stores. But it is crucial to keep in mind that these copies are only good for ignitions and doors, not the remote key fobs. It's a good idea to speak with a locksmith in order to duplicate the smart key or dealer chip key, as these are only copied by a professional with the right tools and machines.
Getting a Replacement
There are several alternatives if you lose your car keys. You can go to the dealership where the car is sold or to an automotive locksmith. Each option will cost a different amount. It also depends on the kind of key your car is equipped with. Some keys are simple double-edged key and others have more intricate.
You can locate the list of locksmiths for cars in your area by conducting an online search. You should find an auto locksmith that is specialized in auto-related services and has an auto division. Contact them to inquire about making a new key. Some have mobile units that can come to your location and make you a key on the spot. This is very convenient if you have a traditional key that doesn't have a chip in it.
Many cars have a keyfob, which is a small electronic gadget that lets you lock and unlock your vehicle from a distance. The fob can also be used to start the engine and control other features of your vehicle. It is easy to lose. You can prevent this by keeping an extra fob in your purse.
The dealership will replace your lost keys for you however, they can be costly. They might also charge a premium for this service, which is the reason many people choose to go with an automotive locksmith instead. Some of these companies are specialized in replacing car keys. This is an economical alternative to going to dealers.
You will need to bring your car to a dealer to have it replaced in the event that you have an electronic key. The dealer will program the new key. This typically involves opening and closing doors and/or turning on lights and electronics and off. You will need to provide your car's VIN number and a photo ID along with the other set of keys are with you.
It's a pain to lose a car keys, and even more so when you have an extremely tight schedule. There is no need to panic, though. Remember to look for your keys with care, to get an identification label for your keys to make them easier to find and to think about purchasing an extra fob to prevent this happening again.
Get Help
Sometimes, we are distracted or forgetful and end up losing keys to our cars. replacing lost keys to a car can be frustrating when you accidentally drop them in a stream while fishing or forget them at an eatery while eating. Luckily, there are steps you can take to keep these types of situations 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 help you avoid the frustration of having to retrace your steps or paying for costly locksmith services. Another alternative is to invest in an electronic key-finder that can help you find your keys that have been lost quickly. These tags are sold online for an affordable price.
The majority of hardware stores will cut a new mechanical key for people who have older cars. However, many cars today use key fobs that have many features integrated into. If you lose these key fobs, they can be expensive to replace.
If you have roadside coverage, your insurance company may hire a locksmith to make a copy. Based on the type of key you own it could be cheaper than the cost of making a new key 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 the new key. It may cost more than working with a locksmith, however it may also be easier to choose a dealership you trust.
The last option is to have a locksmith deprogram the old key, so that it is no longer working. This can be a very risky procedure, so it's recommended to hire a professional to do this for you. Some locksmiths are able perform this without having to remove the key, but it's generally better to let the dealership do it to make certain that it's done properly.