How to Find a Car Key Lost

If keys to your car are lost, it's a major problem. The cost of replacing them can be several hundred dollars depending on the type and features that are included.

You can usually get a replacement for traditional keys made of metal from an hardware store or a locksmith. You'll need your vehicle identification number (VIN) and then go to a dealer to purchase an alternative smart key and to have it linked to your vehicle.

Identifying your keys

The most stressful thing that could occur to any driver is losing their keys to their car. It can be confusing to know what to do when you're unable to locate your keys in your pocket or bag. To locate your keys it is best to remain at a safe distance and follow a step-by-step method.

Start by identifying the type of car keys you own. You can get a copy of an electronic key that can operate the locks from a locksmith at reasonable cost if you have one. You can also get an alternative from the dealer however, they tend to be more expensive.

Most newer cars use smart keys that trigger an internal sensor to allow keyless entry and ignition. These keys are harder to lose because they have built-in features that keep track of where the key is. If you own an intelligent key, you must ensure that it is kept close at all times or it'll be difficult to find.

Find your usual hiding places first before relocating to another place. Check your coat pockets, shoes, and any bags you have carried with you during the day. You can also go back and trace your steps and walk through the day to see whether you've lost your keys.

If you've exhausted all your search options and can't find your car keys, it's time to contact a locksmith or dealership for assistance. They can make a replacement for you as long as you can prove ownership. You can also go to Home Depot to have a basic key copied in the event that you own a vehicle which doesn't have transponder chips.

It's always a good idea to have an extra key in your bag even in the event that you don't need them frequently. You can do this in a number of different ways however the most popular is to give the duplicate key to a family member or trusted friend. You can also buy a Bluetooth tracker to attach to your keys. The app will tell you where they are at all times.

Making a copy

It's easy to misplace a key, which is an essential component of your vehicle. Many car owners find themselves in situations where they lose their keys or stop working at the worst time. It doesn't matter if it's at the gas station, or when loading groceries into the trunk or after an exhausting day at work, losing your keys can be extremely frustrating and annoying.

The good thing is that if you have an extra key, it can help in these scenarios. If you don't have an additional key you can easily and cheaply make duplicate keys at many hardware stores or locksmiths. It's also a good idea to keep an additional key in your wallet just in case!

Many people believe that they must go to the dealer to get a new car key. This isn't always the case. The complexity of the key and the kind you have will determine how it operates.

Modern cars have keys with more than just metal blades. They also have chips that must be programmed to turn on the car. These aren't the kinds of keys that you just cut at a self-service kiosk at the mall, and they do not usually work with other keys.

To make a copy of the key, visit your local AutoZone. A representative will use a machine to read the contours on the key. They will then match it up with the blank key. It's a simple procedure that will only take you a few moments to complete. Some places have a device that can programme your key to fit your car model.

Other places that can help you locate a car key copy include family-owned hardware stores and big box home improvement stores, fobs and some chain grocery stores. It is important to know that these copies only work for the ignitions and doors of your vehicle, not the remote keys. It is recommended to contact an expert locksmith to duplicate a smart key or a dealer's chip. These keys can only be created by a professional who has the right tools and equipment.

Replacement

There are a few options for getting a replacement car key when it is lost. You can visit the dealership that sells your car or visit an automotive locksmith. Each option will cost you a different amount. It is also contingent on the type of key you have. Certain cars come with an easy, double-edged car key while others are more complex.

Search engines can help you locate locksmiths for cars in your area. Look for one that specializes in cars and has an auto division. You can then contact them for a quote on making an original key. Some have a mobile unit that can visit your location and give you a key on the spot. This is a great option if you already have a key that does not contain an embedded chip.

Many cars have keyfobs, which are an electronic device that allows you lock and unlock your car from an extended distance. The fob can also be used to start your engine as well as control some other features in your car. The fob can be difficult to find. There are ways to prevent this from happening, for example by keeping a spare in your pocket.

The dealership will replace your lost keys to your car, but they can be costly. Many dealerships will charge a premium for replacing your lost keys to your car. This is why many people prefer an automotive locksmith. Some of these companies specialize in replacing keys to cars. This can be a cheaper alternative than going to dealers.

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

It's a pain to lose car keys, and even more so when you have a tight schedule. There is no need to panic, though. Be sure to search diligently for your keys, invest in an identification tag for your keys so that they are easier to locate, and also consider getting a spare fob so that this situation doesn't occur again.

Getting Help

We could lose our keys to our car when we're distracted or in a state of forgetfulness. These kinds of accidents can be very frustrating in the event that you drop keys in a river when fishing, or forget them at an eatery while eating. Fortunately, there are ways you can prevent these situations from occurring in the future and minimize the damage that occurs when they do occur.

One of the most important things you can do is to ensure you always have a spare key on hand. This will save you the difficulty of retracing your steps or paying for expensive locksmith services. You can also invest in a Bluetooth key-finder tag that can assist you in finding your keys. These tags can be purchased on the internet for a reasonable cost.

Most hardware stores will cut a new mechanical key for people who have older cars. However, many cars today utilize key fobs with a lot of technology built in. If you lose these, they can be expensive to replace.

If you have roadside assistance coverage, the insurance company may provide a locksmith to visit and create new keys. This is less expensive than making a new key by a dealer, based on the type of keys you have.

You can also contact the dealership that sold you your car to see if they are able to help you create a new key. It may cost more than hiring a locksmith but it is more stress-free to work with a dealer you are familiar with.

A locksmith can deprogram the old key to render it unusable. It's best to let a professional handle this procedure as it could be very risky. Some locksmiths can do this without taking the key apart however, it's more common to let a dealership handle it for you, so that you can be sure that it's done correctly.