How to Replace a Lost Car Key

It can be a major hassle to lose your car keys. Contacting your local dealer or locksmith is usually the best option to begin. They will need to see proof of ownership as well as the key from before in order to make a new one.

This is not always the most cost-effective way to travel.

Traditional Keys

Traditional car keys made of metal were once the most popular type of vehicle key. They have grooves on either side that can be inserted into a set of slots inside the ignition. The key would then be inserted into the ignition cylinder and turned to turn off the car. If you lose a traditional ignition key, it is less expensive than other keys to replace them.

You can call an auto locksmith to have a new traditional key made while you wait. The locksmith will need the model, make and year of your vehicle. The locksmith may also require to have proof of ownership to verify that you are legally able to purchase a brand new key.

Transponder keys are more common in newer vehicles. They're a bit more expensive to replace than conventional keys, but they're also more safe from theft. The head of the transponder keys has an electronic chip that communicates with the computer system inside your car to ensure that it is only activated by the correct key.

When the car is sold, the chips in transponder keys will be programmed using a code. Some use rolling codes, that send an updated code every time the key is used. This makes it more difficult for thieves to copy the code. If you own a contemporary vehicle that has a transponder keys, you should always keep it in a safe place.

Transponder keys last longer than standard metal ones, but are more costly to replace in the event of an eventual loss. You'll need to call your dealer to request an alternative transponder key in the event that you lose one. You'll need to provide your VIN 17-digit code that informs the dealer of the car it's compatible with.

You'll also have to provide your car's serial number. The serial number is usually found on a label that's located on the driver's door or on the owner's manual. It is important to keep these numbers on hand as they can help you locate your car if it gets stolen or lost.

Transponder Keys

If you own a vehicle manufactured in the last 20 years or so it is likely that your car's key has transponder chips. These small pieces of technology are programmed to the specific car, so that only its owner of the vehicle can start it. To make sure that the correct key is used to start your car, your transmission will be locked if it detects that the code in your key does not match its code.

These keys are ideal for your car because they deter car theft. Historically, car thieves were able to simply touch two wires together and use them to start your car in an operation known as hot wiring. However, when cars began with transponder chips, it became much more difficult to steal them since the person who steals them must have the correct key to send the signal required to start your car.

If you own traditional car keys and have lost it, you can get a new one cut on the spot by a locksmith local to you. The old key will be removed from the system of your vehicle. On the other side, if you own a transponder or a fob key, then you will be required to visit the dealership to get it replaced. This is because the dealer must know your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) in order to purchase the correct key for your specific vehicle.

This is because they will need to ensure that the key they are ordering for you is paired with your particular vehicle to be able to start it and open your doors. You'll also need to show proof of ownership, such as your registration or title to get the replacement key from the dealership. This could make this kind of replacement slightly more expensive, but in the long run it's worth it if you consider that your vehicle's key could have been stolen. If you're worried about the expense, you should check whether your warranty or insurance will cover it. If it isn't, you will probably have to take your car to the dealership in order to be towed and ordered from the manufacturer.

Fob Keys

The newest kind of car keys are designed to function as remotes, allowing drivers to open the doors and start the engine without needing to insert an ordinary key into the ignition. These fobs, also called remote control or keyless entry keys, are generally less expensive to replace than the old, traditional variety. However, as with any other piece of consumer technology they're not impervious to damage. They are also easily lost key to my car and cease to function as they move around in your pocket or bag.

Fobs emit an electronic code that enables the driver to unlock and start the vehicle. When tapped against a sensor inside the vehicle, it detects that code and causes the doors to open and the engine to start. Some fobs come with additional features such as a button to summon the car (similar in function to the Tesla summon feature).

If you lose a key fob, the initial thing to do is to make sure that your keys aren't in the locked compartment of your purse or bag. If they're not in the bag, go through your day and consider where you might have lost them. Look in your pockets, in bags that you had in your bag, and on countertops or other surfaces. You might be able to find your keys where you left them or briefly placed them when you went to get something.

You can purchase key fobs replacements on the internet, however they must be programmed to match your vehicle. Some key fobs, like those used by Audi or Subaru must be reprogrammed at the dealership. The good news is that roadside assistance organizations such as AAA will often assist with this, too.

If you do decide to purchase a new key fob, comparison shop. Some retailers will program and cut the fob they purchase elsewhere for less money than they would for doing the same thing at the dealer. Some key fobs can be replaced by replacing only the outer shell and leave the electronics in good working order. Check your car-insurance policy or auto club membership to determine if you have any coverage that covers this.

Keys that are chipped Keys

Over the years, cars have become more more advanced in terms of technology. This has led to more sophisticated keys. These keys aren't able to be duplicated by locksmiths. They require a specific machine. It is more expensive to replace the lost car key using a chip.

You'll need to contact your local dealership if you lose or have it stolen. This is because they keep a record of the security information on their system and can match an updated chip with your vehicle with no hassle. The process could take a few additional days because the dealer has to order the key directly from the manufacturer.

The good thing is that it's possible to get a duplicate of your transponder chip key by an experienced locksmith. It's more complicated than taking your car to a dealership however, you'll save a lot of cash in the end. To get a duplicate key you will require the VIN number of your vehicle. You can find this number on your insurance policy or the sticker on the door jamb for the driver.

You will also need an original copy of your old key to take to the locksmith. This way the locksmith can match the cuts made by the key. If you are unable to find your old key, then look in the trunk and other places where it could be hidden. You can also check your pockets and bags. You never know if you set your keys somewhere, or if you accidentally knocked them out of your bag when trying to find something else.

If you can't find your car keys, you must immediately begin searching for them. First, you must check to make sure that you haven't left them at home or in the office. Then, carefully review your day to determine the possibility of having lost them. After you've checked your bags and empty your pockets then it's time to apply more advanced search methods.