How to Replace a Lost Car Key

It can be a real trouble to lose your car keys. Usually, the best option is calling your local locksmith or dealer. They will need to see proof of ownership and the old key in order to create a new one.

But, this isn't always the most economical option.

Traditional Keys

Traditional car keys made of metal were the first type of vehicle key. They have grooves that fit into slots within the ignition. The key is then inserted into the ignition and turned to start your car. If you lose a traditional ignition key, it can cost less than other types of keys to replace them.

You can have a traditional key made by an automotive locksmith while you wait. They'll need the model and make of your vehicle along with the year it was made. The locksmith may also need proof of ownership to confirm your right to purchase a key.

If you have a recent vehicle, you probably have a transponder keys. They're more expensive to replace but they are also more secure from theft. The head of a transponder key contains an electronic chip that communicates with your car's computer system to ensure that only the correct key can be used to start the car.

The chips inside modern transponder keys are generally programmed with a specific code when the car is sold for the first time. Some use "rolling codes" that transmit a different code every time it is used, making it difficult for thieves to duplicate them. It is important to keep your transponder keys in a secure place if you own an automobile equipped with one.

Transponder keys have a longer lifespan than traditional keys, but they're more expensive to replace should you lose them. If you lose a transponder keys, you'll need to contact the dealer to request the replacement. You'll need to supply your VIN (a 17-digit number) which will tell the dealer which car it is compatible with.

You'll also have to provide the serial number of the car. The serial number is located on a label on the driver's side door or an entry in your owner's manual. It's important to have these numbers on hand since they can help locate your car if it is lost or stolen.

Transponder Keys

If you own a car made in the past 20 years or so, it is likely that your key has transponder chips. These tiny bits of technology are programmed to the specific car so that only the owner is able to start it. To ensure that the correct key is used to start your car, the transmission will be locked when it discovers that the code in your key does not match its code.

These keys are ideal for your car as they can deter theft of cars. Historically, car thieves could simply connect two wires together and use them to start your car using a process known as hot wiring. However, when cars began with transponder chips, it became more difficult to steal them because the criminal must have the correct key to transmit the signal required to start your vehicle.

If you have traditional keys and lose it, a locksmith in your area can cut you a new one right away and remove the old one from your car's system. If you own a transponder or a fob, you'll need go to the dealer to replace it. The dealer will require your VIN (Vehicle ID Number) to purchase the correct key for How to Replace a Lost Car Key your vehicle.

They'll need to ensure that the key they purchase for you is compatible with your vehicle in order to be able to start it and open its doors. To receive the replacement key, you'll need to show proof of ownership like your registration or title. This can make this type of replacement a little more expensive but in the end, it's worth it when you consider that your vehicle's key could have been stolen. If you're concerned about the cost, check if your warranty or insurance will cover the cost. If not it is likely that you will have to take your car to the dealer to have it towed, and then purchase it from the manufacturer.

Fob Keys

The most recent kind of car key is designed to function as an electronic remote, allowing motorists to open doors and start engines without the need to insert traditional keys into the ignition. These keys are also referred to as keys that do not require keyless entry or remote control keys and are generally cheaper to replace than older, more traditional models. But, like all pieces of consumer technology, they are not indestructible. They're also easy to lose and they can cease to function in time when they are jostled around in your pocket or purse.

Fobs emit an electronic code that allows drivers to open and start their car. When they are pressed against a sensor inside the vehicle, it detects that code and enables the doors to open and the engine to start. Certain fobs come with additional features, such as a button that calls the car (similar to the Tesla summon feature).

If you lose a key fob, the first step is to make sure that your keys aren't in the locked compartment of your purse or bag. Then, if they are not in the bag, go through your day and find where you may have lost them. You can also check your pockets, bags you may have had or on surfaces like counters and other surfaces. You might be able to locate your keys in the place you put them, or where you put them in your bag when you went to get something.

You can purchase key fobs replacements on the internet, however they must be programmed to your specific vehicle. Some, such as those used by Audi and Subaru need a trip to the dealership for them to be reprogrammed according to your specific key. Good news! Roadside assistance firms like AAA can help you with this.

If you do decide to purchase a new key fob, comparison shop. Some retailers will program and cut a fob purchased elsewhere for less than they would charge if they did the same thing at the dealer. Some key fobs can be replaced with just the outer shell and leave the electronics in good condition. Check your auto club membership or insurance policy to determine if this is covered.

Keys that are chipped Keys

Cars have become more technologically advanced over the years which has resulted in more sophisticated car keys. These newer keys cannot be duplicated by a locksmith. They require a specific machine. This means that it can be a bit more expensive to replace i lost the keys to my car car keys when they have a chip in the keys.

You will need to contact your local dealer if you lose or have it stolen. They can do this since they have an archive of your security information and can match the new chip to your vehicle without hassle. The process could take a few days however, as the dealer will need to order the key from the manufacturer, and it may take a bit of time for it to arrive.

The good thing is that it's possible to have a duplicate made for your transponder chip key by an experienced locksmith. It is a little more difficult than taking your vehicle to a dealership however, you'll save a lot of cash in the end. In order to get a duplicate key you will need the VIN number of your vehicle. This number is available on your insurance policy or on the sticker inside the driver's door jamb.

You will also need a copy of your key to bring to the locksmith. The locksmith will then match the key cuts. If you can't locate your old key look in the trunk or other areas. You can also search your bags and pockets. You don't know if you put your keys somewhere, or if you knocked them out of your bag when reaching for something other.

If you are unable to locate your car keys, then you must immediately begin searching for them. First, you must check to ensure that you didn't leave them at home or at the office. Then, take a close look at your day to determine if they might have been misplaced. After you've inspected your bags and cleaned out your pockets, it's time to use more advanced search methods.