How to Replace a Lost Car Key

The loss of your car keys can be a huge hassle. Contacting your local dealer or locksmith is typically the best way to start. To make a replacement key, they'll require proof of ownership as well as the original key.

However, this is not always the cheapest way to go.

Traditional Keys

Metal keys for cars were the most common. They have grooves that fit into slots within the ignition. The key is then placed into the ignition and replace turned to get your car started. If you lose a traditional ignition key, it is less expensive than other types of keys to get a replacement.

You can call an auto locksmith to get a new traditional key made while you wait. The locksmith will require the model, make and year of your vehicle. The locksmith might also require to present proof of ownership to prove that you are legally authorized to purchase a new key.

If you own a more recent vehicle, it's likely to have a transponder key. These are a bit more expensive to replace lost car key cost than traditional keys, however they are more safe from theft. The head of a transponder keys contains an electronic chip that communicates with the car's computer system, ensuring that only the correct key can be used to start the car.

When the car is sold, the chips inside transponder keys will be programmed with a specific code. Some have rolling codes, which transmit an updated code each time the key is used. This makes it difficult for thieves to copy the key. It is recommended to keep your transponder keys in a secure location if you own an automobile equipped with one.

Transponder keys have a greater lifespan than traditional keys, however they are more expensive to replace if you lose them. If you lose a transponder keys you'll need to call the dealer to request the replacement. You'll need to provide your VIN, a 17-digit number that tells the dealer which vehicle it's compatible with.

You'll also have to provide the serial number of your car. This number is located on a label that's located on the driver's door or a card in the owner's manual. It is essential to have these numbers handy since they can help find your car if it gets lost or stolen.

Transponder Keys

Your car key may have transponders if your vehicle was manufactured in the last 20 years. These tiny pieces of technology are programmed specifically for the specific vehicle, ensuring only you are able to start it. Your transmission will be locked on your car if it detects the key doesn't match the code. This is to ensure that only the owner can start the vehicle.

These keys are great for your car as they deter car theft. In the past, thieves of cars could simply connect two wires together and use them to start the car, in the process known as hot wiring. Once cars began using transponder chip technology, it became more difficult to steal a car because the thief required the correct key in order to send the signal to start the vehicle.

If you've got traditional car keys and lose it, you can have a new one cut right on the spot by a locksmith local to you. The old key will be deleted from the vehicle's system. On the other hand, if you have a transponder or fob key, you'll 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 order the appropriate key for your particular vehicle.

They must ensure that the key they buy for you is compatible with your car to be capable of starting it up and unlock its doors. You'll also have to show evidence of ownership such as your registration or title in order to receive the replacement key from the dealership. This may make this type of replacement slightly more expensive however in the long run it's worth it when you consider that your car's key could be stolen. If you are concerned about the cost of replacing lost car keys your lost car key, you should whether it is covered by your warranty or insurance. If not, you'll have to take your car to the dealer to have it towed. You can also purchase the key 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 needing to insert traditional keys into the ignition. These keys, also known as keyless entry or remote control keys, are typically less expensive to replace than the old traditional type of keys. But, like all pieces of technology used in the modern world, they are not indestructible. They are also easy to lose and can stop working when they are moved around in your pocket or bag.

Fobs emit an electronic code that allows drivers to unlock and start their car. When the fob is tapped against a sensor in the car it reads the code and the doors open and the engine starts. Certain fobs have additional features such as an option to summon the car (similar to the Tesla summon feature).

If you lose your key fob, check to make sure your keys aren't in the bag or purse that is locked. If they're not there you should go through your day to find where you may have lost the keys. You can also check your pockets, bags you may have or on surfaces like counters and other surfaces. You may be able locate your keys in a place that you dropped them in or placed them on the floor briefly when you were attempting to pick something up.

You can buy replacement key fobs online, but they must be programmed to work with your particular vehicle. Some, like those used by Audi and Subaru will require a trip to the dealership to have them reprogrammed to match your specific key. There's good news! Roadside assistance companies such as AAA can assist you with this.

If you do decide to purchase a new key fob, comparison shop. Some retailers will cut and program a fob that was purchased elsewhere for less than what they charge to complete the same job at the dealer. It is also possible to replace the outer shell of certain fobs with keys, leaving the electronics inside in good working order. Check your car key lost replacement-insurance policy or auto club membership to find out if you have any insurance that covers this.

Chipped Keys

In the past few years, automobiles have become increasingly advanced in terms of technology. This has led to more sophisticated keys. These newer keys cannot be duplicated by a locksmith. They require a specific machine. This means that it can be more expensive to replace lost car keys when they're equipped with chips in the key.

If you lose your transponder chip key or it is stolen from you, then you will need to contact the local dealership to request a replacement. This is because they keep a record of the security information on their system and can match a new chip with your vehicle with no hassle. The process could take a few days however, because the dealer will need to order the key from the manufacturer and it will likely take some time to get it.

The good thing is that it's possible to have an exact duplicate of your transponder chip by a professional locksmith. The process is more complex than going to the dealership but it can save you lots of money in the end. To get a duplicate key, you'll require 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'll also require a copy of your old key to take to the locksmith. This way, the locksmith can match the key cuts. If you are unable to locate your old key, you can check the trunk or other places where it might be hidden. Take a look in your bags and pockets. You don't know if you put your keys down somewhere or if you knocked them out of your bag when trying to find something other.

If you can't find your car keys, you must immediately begin searching for them. First, you must check to make sure that you didn't leave keys at home or in the office. Then, carefully go through your day to determine whether you've lost keys to car no spare them. After you've inspected your bags and cleaned out your pockets, it's time to use more sophisticated search techniques.