How to Find a Car Key Lost

If car keys get lost car keys with no spare, it's a big problem. The cost of replacing them could be several hundred dollars dependent on the type and features that are included.

For traditional keys made of metal, you can typically find a replacement at a locksmith or hardware store. For smart keys, you'll need to locate your vehicle identification number (VIN) and then visit an auto dealer to purchase a new one and have it paired to your vehicle.

Identifying Your Keys

The loss of car keys is one of the most stressful events that can happen to drivers. When you reach for your pocket or bag and cannot find keys, it's difficult to know what to do. It's best to stay at peace and take a step-bystep approach to locate your keys.

Begin by identifying the kind of car keys you have. If you have a traditional mechanical key, which only opens the locks it is possible to get a locksmith to make copies at a reasonable rate. You can also get a replacement from a dealership but they're usually more expensive.

Most modern cars come with a smart key that triggers an internal sensor to allow keyless ignition and entry. They are less likely to lose due to an inbuilt feature that keeps the track of the location of the key. If you own a smart key, it's important to try and keep it close at all times or it will be hard to find.

Be sure to check your usual hiding spots first, before moving to a different location. Examine your pockets for coats or shoes, as well as any bags you've carried with you throughout the day. You could also walk back through the day and following your steps to determine the places you may have misplaced the key.

If you've exhausted all your search options and can't find your car keys, it's time to contact a locksmith or dealer for help. If you have proof of ownership, they can provide you with an alternative. If you own a vehicle that does not have transponder chips, you can have an initial copy made at Home Depot.

It's always recommended to keep 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 the duplicate key to an individual in your family or a trusted friend. Another alternative is to purchase a 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 moment.

Making an Copy

A key is a crucial element 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 possible time. It doesn't matter if it's at the gas station, while loading groceries into the trunk, or after working for a long time the loss of keys can be extremely frustrating and annoying.

If you have an extra key, it could be a lifesaver in these situations. If you don't have an extra key it is possible to easily and cheaply create duplicates at most hardware stores or by locksmiths. It is also advisable to keep an additional set of keys in your wallet just in the case.

Many people believe that they have to go to a dealer in order to get a new car key. However, this is not always true. It's all dependent on the type of key you own, and how complicated it is.

Most modern cars come with keys that are more than metal blades. They also contain chips which require programming to start the engine. These are not the type of keys you can cut at the self-service kiosks in the mall. They also don't work with other keys.

To make a copy of the key, visit your local AutoZone. A member of the team will utilize a machine read the contours on the key. They will then match it up with an uncut key. This is a very simple procedure that will take only just a few minutes. Some locations even have a tool that can program the key to your specific model of car.

Other places that can assist you with a car key copy include family-owned hardware stores and big box home improvement stores, and some chain grocery stores. It is important to note that these copies can only be used for the ignitions and doors of your car and not for remote keys. You should contact a locksmith if you want 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.

Finding an Exchange

There are several alternatives to get an alternative car key if it is lost car key how to replace. You can go to the dealership which sells your car or visit an automotive locksmith. Each option will cost different amounts. It also depends on the type of key your car is equipped with. Some have a simple, double-edged type while others have more intricate.

Search engines can help you locate locksmiths for cars in your area. You should find an auto locksmith that is specialized in auto-related services and has an auto division. You can then contact them for a quote on making a new key. Some have mobile units that can visit your location and give you an exact key right there. This is extremely convenient when you have a conventional key that does not have a chip inside it.

Many cars have a keyfob, which is an electronic device that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle from the distance. The fob can also be used to start your engine as well as manage other features of your car. A fob is easy to lose. There are ways to prevent this from happening, for example keeping a spare in your pocket.

The dealership can replace your keys for you However, they could be expensive. Many dealerships will charge a premium for replacing your lost key to car keys to your car. This is why so many people choose an automotive locksmith. Some of these companies are specialized in the replacement of keys to cars. This could be an economical alternative to going to a dealer.

You'll have to take your car to the dealer to replace it in the event that you have an electronic key. The dealer will need to program your new key. This typically involves opening and closing doors, or turning off/on electronics and lights. You'll need your car's VIN number, a photo ID and the other set of keys you carry with you.

Losing a car key is always a hassle however, it can be even more frustrating when you are working on a tight schedule and have to get somewhere. There's no need to panic, though. Make sure you look for your keys in a thorough manner and get a key-finder label to make them easier to locate and to consider buying an additional fob to avoid this occurring again.

Finding Help

Sometimes, we're distracted or forgetful and lose our car keys. These kinds of accidents can be very frustrating, whether you accidentally drop them in a river when fishing, or forget them at the restaurant while eating. There are steps you can take to avoid this happening again and to minimize damage if it does.

Always keep an extra set of keys on hand. This can help avoid the frustration of having to retrace your steps or paying for expensive locksmith services. Another option is to invest in an electronic key-finder which can help you locate your keys quickly. The tags can be bought online for a relatively affordable price.

The majority of hardware stores will cut a new mechanical key for customers who have older cars. However, many cars today utilize key fobs with lots of tech integrated into. These can be very expensive to replace a lost car key in the event of losing them.

If you have roadside insurance and your insurance company is able to hire a locksmith to make copies. This may be less expensive than making a new key by a dealer, based on the type of keys you have.

You can also reach out to the dealership that sold you your car to see whether they can assist you in creating the new key. This could be more expensive than working with a locksmith, however it may also be less stressful to deal with a dealer you are familiar with.

A locksmith can deprogram the old key to render it inoperable. It is best to let a professional handle this process as it can be extremely risky. Some locksmiths can complete this without disassembling the key however, it's more common to have the dealership do it for you so that you can guarantee that it's done properly.