Car Key Lost Replacement
Losing your car keys can cause a lot of stress. With a bit of patience and the right steps as well as some help from a professional you can easily get an alternative key.
Examine your purse, pockets and back seat. Next, find the nearest authorized dealer of your vehicle's manufacturer.
Old-School Metal Keys
If you lose your car keys first thing you'll want to get locksmiths to come out and make a replacement. This is less expensive than purchasing it from the dealership, and your vehicle will likely be safer by using this method.
You can even make use of an old-fashioned metal blank key, which is similar to the keys used on house doors and are available at the majority of hardware stores and locksmiths. The locksmith will then use a key code from the owner's manual to connect the new key to the locks and ignition of your vehicle.
Another option is to have your vehicle tow back to the dealer in order to have it reset-keyed. They'll need your vehicle identification number (VIN), which you can find on the doorpost for the driver's side, in the trunk, or stamped on a plaque on the driver's side dashboard. They will then link the new key to the computer in your car so that it won't function if you ever lose it again.
If you own an transponder key the dealer will need to reset the immobiliser to pair it up with an entirely new key. This is a much more complicated procedure and will cost you more. The dealer might be able to offer you an offer to replace a car key, though, so it's worth contacting them to get a quote prior to scheduling your appointment.
Smart keys are costly to replace because they look nothing like a traditional car key and operate remotely. They can start your car with a single button press, and turn it on. They are also much more difficult to duplicate than older keys for cars.
Having a spare car key can help you avoid the expense of replacing them, but not every person has a spare at all times. You might want to consider purchasing a keyfob for your vehicle if you are prone to lose things.
Fobs
Fobs are a lot more expensive than metal keys and can be integrated into sophisticated security systems for vehicles. They are not indestructible either. They are susceptible to being damaged by extreme temperatures, and also being thrown and smashed. They may fail or break at any point. They also have batteries that require to be replaced on a regular basis however, they aren't able to last forever.
If you lose your key fob, you'll need to find a locksmith who is specialized in your particular kind of vehicle or a dealership. Locksmiths are able to duplicate and program key fobs, however, you might need to bring your VIN number in addition (usually found on the dashboard of the driver's side door jamb or in your owner's manual). It may be possible to save some cash in the event that you have a vehicle warranty or roadside assistance plan that covers lost or stolen keys.
In the case of more recent automobiles and brands that are high-end, such as Mercedez, you may only be able to purchase replacement keys at the dealership. This is because the manufacturer holds exclusive rights to security and technical expertise.
Fortunately, most key fobs are fairly cheap and easy to replace if you have the right spare. A lot of hardware stores sell them, and some specialize in key duplication for automotive keys.
You can increase the chances of finding your lost fob by attaching an AirTag or Tile on it and then using an app on your smartphone. Look through the lost and found of any business you visited or the floor you were on.
Before you buy a replacement you should take the time to determine what happened to the original one. Did it break or fall into a crack? Did click for more info leave it on the street? Did you leave it in an eatery or at the back of the taxi? You might be able to retrieve your car if you did. Otherwise, you'll need to buy a new oneand pay for towing costs.
Smart Keys
There are instances when even the best of us lose track of our car keys. It could be as simple as putting them in the fridge while grabbing drinks, or as serious as forgetting to lock them in the trunk while loading groceries. It is essential to be prepared for any scenario that could arise, such as the possibility of your car key being lost.
The first option, and cheapest, is to contact an auto locksmith. They typically have all the tools needed for the job and will be able to provide you with a brand new key in a fairly short period of time. They'll also assist you with any other issues that may arise with your vehicle, for example, opening a locked door or starting the engine.
Another option is to ask your dealer for help in particular if you have a model that uses a smart key system. This type of key sends an low-frequency signal to the antennas that are embedded into the vehicle to confirm that the driver is close to opening the car or even starting it. How Stuff Works Electronics reports that it can store the settings of each driver's for their mirrors, seat and the steering wheel.
These systems are vulnerable to hackers who can take over the signal. This could result in your car being taken away or, even worse, being used as an escape route using a remote. Luckily, certain models, such as Mercedes-Benz smart keys, employ different frequencies to stop this from happening.
You can also contact your auto insurance company or roadside assistance. If you're covered under their terms and conditions, they may be able offer a replacement. However, these services can be expensive and take time to arrive.
In addition to being a practical and effective way to avoid losing your car keys, this kind of key is also an excellent way to keep an extra key in case of emergencies. You never know when you'll need a ride to home from the store, and having a spare key will give you peace of head in case you're traveling.
Transponder Keys
If your car was manufactured in the last 20 years or then, there's a good chance that it has an electronic transponder in the. This device to prevent theft is called a "chip" key. It makes it very difficult to connect a vehicle's hot wire. The keys transmit signals to the computer system in your vehicle when you insert them into the ignition. If it recognizes the signal it will start the engine. This will protect your family car or luxury ride from being stolen, and you'll know that you're the only person driving it. While these types of keys are more costly to replace than a standard non-transponder key but the extra security is worth the cost for many.
Contact your local locksmith if you have lost your transponder keys. They have the tools to replace keys on most automobiles and are less expensive than dealerships.
If you decide to purchase from a dealer, you'll have to bring along your old key fob so they can purchase a new one. This can take a few days and cost you a considerable amount of money.
A locksmith can cut an extra key. They can cut most keys and even duplicate a switchblade type key (which has a built-in lock) but they won't be able to program it for your car. This may work if you don't have other spares, but it's not ideal.
The last alternative is to contact the car dealership directly and request that they order you a new key fob/transponder chip key for your car. This is the most expensive and will take a few more days.
It's a pain to lose keys to your car, however it doesn't have to be as bad as you think. With the help of an expert, you will return to your vehicle as quickly as you can and ensure that your car is secure from thieves. Keep an extra car key in your pocket or bag and be aware of where you are when driving.