How to Find a Car Key Lost
If car keys get lost, it's a major issue. Replacing them can cost several hundreds of dollars based on the type of key and what features are included.
You can usually get an alternative for traditional metal keys at an hardware store or a locksmith. You'll need your vehicle identification number (VIN) to visit a dealer to order a new smart key and get it paired with your car.
Identifying your keys
The loss of car keys is one of the most stressful things that can happen to a driver. If you reach into your bag or pocket and are unable to locate them, it can be difficult to know what to do. To locate your keys it is best to remain in a calm state and follow a step by step approach.
Begin by identifying what kind of car key you have. If you have a conventional mechanical key that operates the locks, you can ask a locksmith to create a copy at an affordable cost. You can also purchase a replacement from a dealership, but they are usually more expensive.
Most newer cars have the smart key, which triggers the car's sensor for keyless ignition and entry. These keys are more difficult to lose due to built-in features that keep an eye on where the key is. If you own an intelligent key, it's crucial to ensure that it is kept close at all times, or it could be difficult to locate.
Find your usual hiding places first before relocating to another place. Check your pockets in your coat and in the shoes you're wearing, and in any bags that you've carried around throughout the day. You could also consider walking back through the day and going back to find the places you may have misplaced the key.
You should contact a dealer or locksmith for assistance if you have exhausted all your search options but still cannot find your car key. They'll be able to make a new key for you, provided that you have proof of ownership. You can also go to Home Depot to have a basic key copied if you're driving a model which doesn't have transponder chips.
It's always recommended to keep an extra key in your bag even if you don't lose keys often. You can do this in a few different ways however the most popular is to give an additional key to someone in your family or a trusted friend. Another option is to invest in the Bluetooth key tracker, which can be positioned on your keys and connected to an app that can show you where your keys are at any time.
Making copies
It's easy to misplace keys, which are an essential component of your vehicle. Many car owners find themselves in situations when they lose their keys or have them stop working at the most inconvenient time. Losing lost auto key is frustrating and annoying, whether it's while at the gas pump, putting groceries in the trunk or following an exhausting day at work.
If you have an extra key, it could be a lifesaver during these situations. If not have one, you can make a copy of your keys quickly, easily and inexpensively at most locksmiths or hardware stores. It's also an excellent idea to keep an additional key in your wallet just in case!
Many people are under the impression that they must visit a dealership to obtain a replacement car key. But, this isn't always true. The complexity of the key and the type you own will determine how it works.
Modern cars have keys that are more than just metal blades. They are equipped with chips that must be programmed to turn on the car. These aren't the kind of keys you can get cut at the self-service kiosks in the mall. They also don't work with other keys.
To create a duplicate of a key, visit your local AutoZone. An associate will make use of a machine to read the contours on the key. They will then match it up with a blank key. This is a straightforward process that will only take you some minutes to complete. Some locations even have a tool that can program the key to your specific model of vehicle.
Other places that could assist you with a car key copy include family owned hardware stores, big box home improvement stores, and a few chain stores. It is important to remember that these copies are only suitable for the doors and ignitions of your car and not the remote keys. It's a good idea to contact a locksmith to duplicate an electronic key or dealer chip key, since these are only copied by a professional with the right tools and machines.
Replacement
There are a variety of options for getting a replacement car key when it's lost. You can either go to the dealer where your car is sold or visit an automotive locksmith. Each option will cost different amounts. It also depends on what kind of key you own. Some keys are simple double-edged key and others are more complex.
You can locate a list of locksmiths for cars in your area by conducting an online search. Choose a locksmith that specializes in cars and has an auto division. You can then contact them to inquire about a price for the creation of a new key. Some have mobile units that can visit your location and create an exact key right there. This is a great option when you have a conventional key that does not have a chip inside it.
A majority of cars today have a key fob that is a small electronic device that allows you to 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 car. A fob can be easily lost. You can prevent this by keeping an extra fob in your purse.
The dealership will replace your lost car keys for you However, they could be expensive. Some dealerships charge a fee to replace your car keys. This is why many people opt for an automotive locksmith. Some of these firms specialize in replacing car keys. This can be an economical alternative to going to an auto dealer.
You'll have to bring your car to a dealer to have it replaced if you have an electronic key. They will have to program the new key into your vehicle. This typically involves opening or closing doors, or turning off/on lights and electronics. You will need to provide the VIN number of your car and a photo ID along with the other set of keys are with you.
It can be a hassle to lose car keys, but more so when you're on a an extremely tight schedule. There's no reason to panic, however. Be sure to search diligently for your keys, get the key-finder tag to ensure that they are easier to find, and consider purchasing a spare key fob to ensure that this doesn't happen again.
Getting Help
We may lose our keys to our car when we are distracted or not paying attention. Whether you drop keys in the water while fishing or leave them at an eatery while you're dining out These types of accidents can be frustrating to deal with. Fortunately, there are ways you can keep these types of situations from happening in the future and reduce the damage if they do happen.
One of the most important ways to protect yourself is to ensure you always have a spare key handy. This will avoid the trouble of having to go back to your steps or pay for expensive locksmith services. You can also purchase a Bluetooth key-finder tag that can aid you in finding your keys. These tags are available online at affordable prices.
The majority of hardware stores will cut a brand new mechanical key for customers who own older vehicles. However, a lot of cars today use key fobs that have a lot of technology built in. If they are lost keys, they could be costly to replace.
If you have roadside assistance coverage, the insurance company may pay for a locksmith to come out and create a new copy. Depending on the type of key you own it could be cheaper than making a new key at an auto dealer.
Another option is to call the dealership from which you bought your car and inquire if they can assist you in creating a new key. It may cost more than working with a locksmith, however it could also be more relaxing to work with a dealership that you are familiar with.
A locksmith can reprogram your old key to make it inoperable. This is a risky process, so it's best to hire a professional to do this for you. Some locksmiths are able to do this without removing the key, but it's generally better to let a dealership do it to make sure it's done correctly.