Car Key Lost Replacement
Losing car keys can be a real headache. However, with a bit of patience and the right steps and some help from an expert, you can find a replacement key in a short time.
Check your purse, pockets and back seat. Find the nearest authorized dealer of the manufacturer of your vehicle.
Old-school Metal Keys
If you lose your car keys, the first thing to do is to contact a locksmith to make an entirely new set. This is much less expensive than purchasing a new key from the dealer, and will be more secure.
You could also make use of an old-fashioned steel blank key, which are like the keys for door locks and can be cut at the majority of hardware stores and locksmiths. The locksmith will then utilize a key code from your owner's manual in order to pair the new key with the locks and ignition of your vehicle.
Another alternative is to have your car towed back to the dealer to have it re-keyed. You will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) which is located on the driver's side doorpost or in the trunk. It could also be stamped on a plate placed on the dashboard of the driver's side. They will then combine the new key to your car's computer, so it will not function if you lose it once more.
The dealer will have to reset the immobiliser in case you have transponders. This is a more complex procedure, and is likely to cost you more. It is possible to get a discount from a dealer in the event that you lose the car keys. It's worth asking for a quote.
Smart keys are expensive to replace as they appear unlike a traditional car key and operate remotely. They can start your car and start the engine with just a press of a button, and they are much more difficult for thieves to duplicate than the older types of car keys.
The possession of a spare car key can save you the cost of replacing them, but not every person keeps a spare on hand at all times. You might want to consider purchasing a keyfob for your car if you tend to lose things.
Fobs
Fobs cost a lot more than keys made of metal and can be integrated into sophisticated security systems for vehicles. They're not impervious to damage either. Like any other consumer technology that spends much of its time jostling around in pockets of people, they can be damaged, dropped, or exposed to extreme temperatures. In the end, they may break or cease working at the drop of a hat. They also have batteries that must be replaced periodically However, they won't last forever.
If you lose your key fob, you'll need to find a locksmith who specializes in your type of car or a dealership. Most locksmiths can duplicate keys and program them, but you may need to bring your vehicle's VIN number as well (usually located on the dashboard of the driver's side door jamb, or in the owner's manual). It is possible to save money when you have a car warranty or roadside assistance coverage plan that covers stolen or lost keys.
In the case of more recent cars and high-end brands, such as Mercedez or Mercedez, you may be able get replacement keys at the dealership. This is because the manufacturer holds exclusive rights to technical and security expertise.
Most key fobs are easily replaced and cheaply if you have a spare. A lot of hardware stores sell them, and some even specialize in key duplication for automotive keys.
You can increase the chances of locating your lost item by putting an AirTag or Tile on it and using an app on your smartphone. Follow your steps back to when you last remembered having it, and look up the lost-and-found records of any business or floors you've went to.
Before you buy an alternative you should take the time to determine what happened to the original one. Did it fall through cracks? Was it thrown out on the street? You may be able get it back if you left it in a restaurant or in the back of a cab. If yes, you might be able to get it back. You'll need to buy an entirely new vehicle and pay towing charges if you don't.
Smart Keys Keys
Even the best of us could lose our car keys. It could be as simple as putting them in the fridge while you're grabbing drinks or not locking them in the trunk when loading groceries. It's important to be prepared for any circumstance that could arise, such as the possibility of your car key being lost.
The first and most affordable is to contact an auto locksmith. They'll have all the tools necessary to accomplish the task, and can provide you with a new key in a short period of time. They can also help you with other problems relating to your vehicle such as opening a door that's locked or starting your car.
Contacting your dealer to help is another option, especially in the case of smart-key systems. This type of key transmits an low-frequency signal to the antennas embedded in the vehicle to confirm that the driver is within opening the car or even starting it. It also stores specific driver settings for seats mirrors, seat, and steering wheel's position, according to How Stuff Works Electronics.
However, these systems can be susceptible to hacking by tech-savvy thieves who can detect the signal and then intercept it. This could result in your car being stolen or, worse yet, used as a remote to drive away. Luckily, certain models, such as Mercedes-Benz smart keys, utilize different frequencies to avoid this from occurring.
You can also contact your auto insurance company or roadside assistance. If cost of car key replacement covered under their terms and conditions, they might be able offer the replacement. However, these services can be expensive and take a while to arrive.
In addition to being a practical and effective method of avoiding losing your car keys, this type of key can also be an excellent way to keep an extra key in case of emergency situations. You never know when you'll need an Uber to get to home from the store, and having a spare key will provide you with peace of mind in case you're traveling.
Transponder Keys
If your car was built in the past 20 years or then, there's a likely that it has an electronic transponder in the. Also called a "chip key" this is an anti-theft device that makes it very difficult to wire hot wires into your vehicle. These keys send a signal to the computer system in your vehicle whenever you insert them into the ignition. If it recognizes the signals, it will begin to start the vehicle. This helps protect your luxury car or family vehicle from theft and ensures that no one but you is driving it. Although these keys are more expensive to replace than a basic non-transponder keys, the extra security is worth the price for many.
Call your local locksmith if you've lost the transponder keys. These professionals have the equipment to create replacements for nearly every vehicle, and they generally charge less than a dealership.
However, if you decide to go with a dealer you'll require bringing your old key fob with you to allow them to get a new one ordered for you. This can take several days and cost a lot of money.
A locksmith can cut keys for you to use as spare keys. They can copy most key types, and even a switchblade key (which comes with a lock built-in) however, they are unable to program it to your vehicle. This is a good alternative if you don't have other spares however, it's not ideal.
The final option is to contact the car dealership directly and have them purchase the new key fob/transponder key for your vehicle. This usually takes several days and it's likely to be the most expensive option of all.
It's a pain to lose your car keys, but it doesn't have be as bad as you imagine. With the help of an expert, you can get back on the road in the shortest time possible and ensure that your car is secure from thieves. Make sure to keep an extra key in your bag or pocket and be aware of where you are while driving!