How to Find a Car Key Lost
If keys to your car are lost, it's a major problem. Replacing keys can cost several hundreds of dollars based on the kind of key and what features are included.
For traditional metal keys, you can typically get a replacement from a locksmith or hardware store. You'll require your vehicle identification number (VIN), and then go to a dealer to purchase an alternative smart key and to have it paired with your car.
Identifying your keys
The most stressful thing that could happen to any driver is the loss of their keys to their car. It can be a bit confusing to know what to do when you can't find your keys in your bag or pocket. To locate your keys it's best to stay at a safe distance and follow a step-by-step approach.
Start by identifying the type of car keys that you have. If you have a traditional mechanical key that only operates the locks it is possible to have a locksmith make duplicate keys at a low price. You can also exchange your key with a dealer however, it's typically more expensive.
Most newer cars use a smart key that triggers an internal sensor to allow keyless entry and ignition. These keys are more difficult to lose since they have an inbuilt feature that keeps track of the location of the key. Keep your smart key close to hand or you may find it difficult to locate.
Find your usual hiding places first before relocating to another place. Check in your coat pockets and in your shoes and in any bags you've had on you throughout the day. You can also try walking back through the day and retracing your steps to see where you may have lost the key.
You should contact a dealer or locksmith for assistance if you have exhausted all options and are still unable to locate your car key. They'll be able to make a new key for you if you have proof of ownership. You can also visit Home Depot to have a basic key copied in the event that you own a vehicle that doesn't have transponder chips.
It's always recommended to keep an extra key in your bag even in the event that you don't need them frequently. There are a number of ways to do this but most involve giving a duplicate to someone you trust, such as a family member. Another alternative is to purchase an Bluetooth key tracker that can be put on your keys and connected to an app that will show you where your keys are at any time.
Making copies
A key is a crucial component of a car and it's easy to lose. Many car owners find themselves in situations where they lose their keys or stop working at the most inconvenient time. Losing your keys is frustrating and inconvenient, whether it's at the gas pump, loading groceries into the trunk, or after a hard day at work.
The good news is that if have an extra key, it can save the day in these situations. If you don't have one, you can make copies of your keys quickly, easily, and inexpensively at most hardware stores or locksmiths. Keep an extra set of keys in your wallet in the case.
Many people believe that they must visit a dealer to get a brand new car key. However, this is not always true. The complexity of the key and the type you are using will determine how it operates.
The majority of modern automobiles have keys that are more than just metal blades. They have chips inside them that need to be programmed to start the engine. These are not the type keys that you can cut at the self-service kiosks at the mall. They also won't work with other keys.
To create a duplicate of a key, you can go to your local AutoZone. A representative will use a machine to analyze the contours on the key. They will then match it to an uncut key. It's a simple procedure that takes only a few moments to complete. Some places even have a tool that can program the key to your specific model of car.
You can also get copies of your car key at hardware stores owned by families, large chain of home improvement stores, and even some grocery stores. It is important to remember that these copies are only good for doors and ignitions and not remote key fobs. It is recommended to speak with a locksmith in order to duplicate the smart key or dealer chip key, because they can only be copied by a professional with the right tools and machines.
Requesting a Replacement
There are a few alternatives to get a replacement car key when it's lost. You can visit the dealership that sells your vehicle or you can go to an automotive locksmith. Each option will cost different amounts. It is also contingent on the kind of key your car is equipped with. Certain cars come with an easy double-edged car key, while others have more complicated keys.
Search engines can help you locate locksmiths for your car in your area. Find one that is specialized in cars and has an auto division. You can then contact them for a quote on making the new key. Some companies have a mobile unit that can create keys at your location. This is extremely convenient for those who have a traditional key that does not have a chip inside it.
Many cars today have key fobs that are tiny electronic device that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle from an extended distance. The fob is also used to start the engine and control other functions of your vehicle. The fob can be difficult to find. You can avoid this by keeping an extra fob in your pocket.
Dealerships can replace lost keys however it could be costly. A lot of dealerships will charge a fee for replacing your lost car key s. This is why so many people prefer an automotive locksmith. Some of these companies specialize in the replacement of keys for cars. This could be an affordable alternative to going to an auto dealer.
You'll need to bring your car to a dealer to get it replaced if you have a smart-key. The dealer will program your new key. This typically involves opening and closing doors and/or turning on lights and electronics and off. You will need to provide the VIN number of your car and a photo ID along with the other set of keys you have with you.
It can be a hassle to lose car keys, but even more so when you have a tight schedule. Don't panic. Be sure to look for your keys in a thorough manner and to purchase an identification label for your keys to make them easier to find and also to think about buying an extra fob to prevent this occurring again.
Getting Help
Sometimes, we're distracted or forgetful and lose keys to our cars. These accidents can be frustrating when you accidentally drop them in a stream when fishing, or leave them in the restaurant while eating. Luckily, there are ways to prevent these situations from occurring in the future and to minimize the damage when they do occur.
One of the best things you can do is to make sure you always have a spare key on hand. This will help you avoid the hassle of retracing your steps or paying for costly locksmith services. You can also purchase a Bluetooth key-finder tag that can help you quickly locate your keys. These tags are available online at an affordable price.
For older vehicles which use keys that are mechanical, it's possible to have a new one made at a variety of hardware stores for just a couple of dollars. Many cars are equipped with key fobs that have a lot of technology. They can be costly to replace if you lose them.
If you have roadside protection the insurance company could pay a locksmith to create a copy. Depending on the type of key you own, this could be much cheaper than the cost of making a new key at an auto dealer.
Another option is to contact the dealership from which you bought your car and ask them to assist you in creating the new key. This could be more expensive than working with a locksmith, but it may also be easier to work with a dealership that you are familiar with.
The final alternative is to hire locksmiths reprogram the old key, so that it doesn't work anymore. It is best to let a professional handle this procedure as it could be extremely risky. Certain locksmiths can perform this without disassembling the key however, it's more common to let a dealership handle it for you so that you can guarantee it will be done correctly.