How to Find a Car Key Lost
When car keys are lost, it's an enormous issue. The cost of replacing them can be a few hundred dollars depending on the type of key and features included.
You can typically find an alternative for traditional keys made of metal at the hardware store or locksmith. For smart keys, you'll need locate your vehicle identification number (VIN) and visit an auto dealer to purchase a new one and have it paired to your car.
Identifying your keys
The most stressful thing that can occur to any driver is the loss of their keys to their car. It can be confusing to know what to say when you can't locate your keys in your pocket or bag. It's best to stay calm and follow a step-by-step approach to locate your keys.
Begin by identifying what kind of car keys you own. If you own a traditional mechanical key that opens the locks it is possible to have a locksmith make duplicate keys at a low cost. You can also get a replacement from a dealership but they're usually more expensive.
Most newer cars have a smart key that activates the car's sensors to allow keyless entry and ignition. They are also more resistant to theft, since they have a built-in feature that monitors where the key is. Keep your smart key close at hand or you may be unable to locate it.
It is recommended to check your usual hiding spots before moving on to other areas. Check your pockets in your coat, in your shoes and in any bags that you've carried around throughout the day. You can also go back and trace your steps back throughout the day to determine the key you've lost.
If you've exhausted all of your search options and can't find your car keys, it's time to call a locksmith or a dealership for assistance. They'll be able to make a new key for you as long as you can prove ownership. If you own a car without transponder chips, you can have an initial copy made at Home Depot.
Even if you don’t lose your keys frequently, it’s recommended to keep a spare key in hand. There are several methods to accomplish this, but most involve giving the duplicate to an individual who is a trusted family member. Another option is to invest in an Bluetooth key tracker. It can be positioned on your keys and connected to an app that can show you where your keys are at any time.
Making a copy
A key is an essential component of a car and it's easy to lose. Many car owners are in situations where they lose their keys or have them stop working at the worst possible time. Losing your keys can be a hassle and frustrating, no matter if it's at the pump, putting groceries in the trunk or after working for a long time.
If you have a spare key, it can be a lifesaver in such situations. If you don't have an additional key, you can easily and cheaply make duplicate keys at the majority of hardware stores or through locksmiths. It is also advisable to keep an extra set of keys in your wallet just in case.
Many people believe that they must go to the dealership to get a replacement car key. This is not always the situation. The complexity of the key and the kind you are using will determine how it functions.
Modern cars have keys with more than just metal blades. They are equipped with chips that must be programmed to turn on the car. They are not the kind keys that you can cut at the self-service kiosk at the mall. They also don't work with other keys.
To create a duplicate of a key, go to 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 straightforward procedure that takes only a few minutes to complete. Some locations have a device that can program your key to fit your car model.
You can also find a copy of your car keys at family-owned hardware stores, big home improvement chains as well as some grocery stores. But it is crucial to keep in mind that these copies are only suitable for doors and ignitions, not the remote key fobs. It is recommended to speak with a locksmith in order to duplicate a smart key or a dealer chip key, because they can only be copied by a professional with the right tools and machines.
Replacement
There are several alternatives to get a replacement car key when it is lost. You can go to the dealer where the car is sold or to an automotive locksmith. Each option will cost a different amount. It also depends on the kind of key your car is equipped with. Some cars have the basic, double-edged car key while others have more complicated keys.
You can locate the list of locksmiths for cars in your area by conducting an online search. You need to find one that is specialized in car locksmiths and has an auto division. You can then contact them to request a quote for making you a new key. Some companies have a mobile unit which can create keys at your location. This is a great option when you have a conventional key that doesn't come with a chip in it.
A lot of cars come with keys fobs, which are an electronic device that allows you lock and unlock your vehicle from an extended distance. The fob can also be used to start your engine as well as manage other features of your vehicle. The fob can be easy to lose. There are ways to prevent this from happening, for example keeping a spare fob in your pocket.
Dealerships can replace lost keys, but it can be expensive. They might also charge a premium for this service, which is the reason many people opt to go with an auto locksmith instead. Some of these companies are specialized in the replacement of keys to cars. This can be an affordable alternative to going to an auto dealer.
You'll have to take your car to the dealer to have it replaced if you have an electronic key. They will have to program the new key to your vehicle. This usually involves opening/closing doors, or turning off/on lights and electronics. You will need to provide your car's VIN number along with a photo ID as well as the other set of keys that you have with you.
The loss of a car keys is always frustrating, but it can be even more so if you are in a hurry and have to travel. There's no need to be worried. Be sure to look for your keys in a thorough manner, to get the key-finder label to make them easier to find and to consider buying an extra fob to prevent this repeating itself.
Get Help
We may lose our keys to our car when we are distracted or not paying attention. If you drop keys in the water when fishing, or leave them in an eatery while you're out for a meal These kinds of accidents happen and can be frustrating to manage. There are steps you can do to avoid this happening again and to minimize the damage should it happen.
One of the most important things you can do is to ensure that you have a spare key in your bag. This can help avoid the difficulty of retracing your steps or having to pay for costly locksmith services. You can also invest in a Bluetooth key-finder tag to aid you in finding your keys. These tags are available online at affordable prices.
For older vehicles that have a mechanical key you can get a new one made at a number of hardware stores for a couple of dollars. However, a lot of cars today have key fobs that come with a lot of technology integrated into. If they are lost, they can be expensive to replace.
If lost car key with no spare have roadside insurance the insurance company could hire a locksmith to make a copy. This may be less expensive than having a new key made by a dealer, based on the type of keys you own.
You can also reach out to the dealership where you bought your car to see if they are able to help you create the new key. It may cost more than working with a locksmith, but it is also easier to choose a dealership you are familiar with.
The final alternative is to have locksmiths reprogram the old key so that it no longer works. It's best to let a professional handle this procedure as it could be very risky. Some locksmiths are able to do this without taking off the key, however it's usually better to let a dealership handle it so you can be certain that it's done properly.