How to Replace a Lost Car Key

The loss of your car keys can be a big problem. Contacting your local dealer locksmith is usually the best method to start. They'll need proof of ownership and the key from before in order to create a new key.

However, this is not always the cheapest option.

Traditional Keys

Metal car keys were the most popular. They have grooves that fit into slots in the ignition. The key is then placed into the ignition and turned to start your car. If you lose a traditional ignition key, it can cost less than other keys to replace them.

You can call an auto locksmith to have a brand new traditional key made while you wait. They will need to know your vehicle's make and model and the year it was manufactured. The locksmith may also need proof of ownership in order to verify your right to purchase keys.

If you own a more recent vehicle, you probably have a transponder key. They are a little more costly to replace lost key than traditional keys, however they are more secure against theft. The head of a transponder key contains an electronic chip that communicates with the car's computer system to ensure that only the correct key can start it.

When a car is sold, the chips in transponder keys will be programmed with a code. Some use rolling codes, which send an updated code every time the key is used. This makes it difficult for thieves to copy the key. If you own a contemporary car with a transponder key, you should always keep it in a secure location.

Transponder keys last longer lifespan than traditional keys, however they are more expensive to replace in the event that you lose them. If you lose a transponder lock then you'll have to contact the dealer to request a new one. You'll need to supply your VIN 17-digit code that informs the dealer of the vehicle it's compatible with.

You'll also need to provide the serial number of your car. This number is usually found on a sticker on the driver's side door, or a card in your owner's manual. These numbers are crucial as they can help you find your car in the event that it is stolen or lost.

Transponder Keys

If you own a vehicle manufactured in the last 20 years or so it is likely that your key has a transponder chip. These tiny pieces of technology are programmed for your specific car, how to replace a lost car key so that only you can start it. The transmission will lock your car if it detects the key doesn't match the code. This is to ensure that only the owner is able to start the vehicle.

These keys are a great feature for your car as they discourage car theft. Hot wiring is a method that thieves have employed to start cars. When cars started using transponder chips making it more difficult to steal the car as the burglar required the correct key to send a signal to start the car.

If you've got an old-fashioned car key and you lose it, you can get a new one cut on the spot by a local locksmith. The old one will be deleted from the system of your vehicle. On the other side, if you own a transponder or fob key, then you will need to go to the dealership to have it replaced. The dealer will require your VIN (Vehicle ID Number) to get the correct key for your vehicle.

This is because they need to ensure that the key that they're requesting for you is compatible with your specific vehicle in order to begin it and open your doors. You'll also need to provide proof of ownership, like your registration or title in order to get the replacement key from the dealer. This type of replacement can be a little more expensive but it's worth it when you consider the possibility that your vehicle key was stolen. If you're concerned about the cost of replacing your car key, you should whether it is covered under your warranty or car insurance. If not, you'll have to bring your car to a dealer to have it towed and get the key from the manufacturer.

Fob Keys

The most recent kind of car keys are designed to work like remotes, letting drivers open the doors and start the engine without having to insert a traditional key into the ignition. These fobs, also called keyless entry or remote control keys, are usually cheaper to replace than older traditional versions. But, like all pieces of consumer technology they're not impervious to damage. They're also easy to lose and can stop working over time as they are lost in your purse or pocket.

Fobs emit a digital code that allows drivers to unlock and start their car. When they are pressed against a sensor inside the car, it reads the code and allows the doors to open and the engine to start. Certain fobs include additional features like an option to summon the car (similar to the Tesla summon feature).

If you lose your key fob make sure that your keys aren't in bags or purses that is locked. If they're not there and you don't have them, then look through your day to find where you may have lost them. Check your pockets, in bags you carried with you, and on counters or other surfaces. You may be able to locate your keys in a spot that you dropped them in or placed them on the floor briefly when you went to buy something.

You can purchase replacement key fobs on the internet, but they must be programmed for your vehicle. Some key fobs, like those used by Audi or Subaru, need to be reprogrammed at the dealership. The good news is that roadside assistance companies like AAA can often help with this, too.

If you do decide to purchase a new key fob, comparison shop. Some retailers will cut and program a fob purchased elsewhere for less money than for doing exactly the same thing at the dealer. Certain key fobs can be replaced by replacing only the outer shell leaving the electronics in good working condition. Examine your car insurance policy or auto club membership to find out if you have any coverage that covers this.

Keys that are chipped Keys

In the past few years, automobiles have become more and more advanced in terms of technology. This has led to more sophisticated keys. Unlike traditional keys, which could be duplicated at a locksmith, these newer keys require a specially-designed machine to duplicate. It is more expensive to replace the lost car key using a chip.

You will need to contact your local dealer should you lose your vehicle or get it stolen. They can do this because they keep a record of your security information and can pair the new chip to your car without much hassle. The process may take a few days however, because the dealer will have to order the key from the manufacturer, and it will likely take some time to get it.

A professional locksmith can make an exact duplicate of your transponder key. The process is a bit more complex than going to the dealership, but it will save you a lot of money in the end. You will need your vehicle's VIN number to order a duplicate. This number is available on your insurance policy or on the sticker on the jamb of the driver's door.

You'll also require an exact copy of your old key to take to the locksmith. The locksmith will then match the key cuts. If you can't locate the key you used to have, try searching in the trunk or in other places. You can also search your pockets and bags. You never know where you left your keys, or if they fell out of your bag while you were searching for something else.

You should immediately begin searching for your car keys if they aren't there. locate them. To begin with, check to ensure that you haven't left keys at home or in the office. Then, carefully review your day to determine if you could have misplaced them. After you've checked your bags and emptied your pockets, it's time to use more sophisticated search techniques.