Car Key Lost Replacement
Car keys lost can be a real pain. However, with a bit of patience, the right steps, and a little help from an expert, you will obtain a replacement key fast.
Examine your purse, pockets and the back seat. Find the nearest authorized dealership of your car manufacturer.
Old-School metal keys
If you lose your car key, the first thing you'll need to do is get locksmiths to come in and create a new one. This is less expensive than purchasing it from the dealership, and your vehicle will likely be safer with this method.
You can also use a metal blank key that is similar to keys for doors to houses. These keys are cut by most hardware stores and locksmiths. The locksmith will then use the key code found in the owner's manual to connect the new key to the locks and ignition of your vehicle.
Another alternative is to get your vehicle tow back to the dealer in order to have it reset-keyed. You'll need your vehicle identification number (VIN), found on the driver's side doorpost or in the trunk. It can also be engraved on a plate that is mounted on the dashboard of the driver's side. They will combine the new key with the car's computer system to ensure that if you lose it, it won't function.
The dealer will have to reset the immobiliser in case you have a transponder. This is a more difficult procedure, and will likely cost more. You may be able get a discount from a dealer if you have lost your car key. It is worth asking for a quote.
Smart keys are costly to replace since they look different from a conventional car key and operate remotely. They can start your car and start the engine with a press of a button, and they are much harder for thieves to duplicate than the older types of car keys.
Having a spare car key can help you avoid the expense of replacements that are lost however not everyone has spare keys on hand at all times. Consider purchasing a key fob for your car if you tend to lose things.
Fobs
Fobs are much more expensive than traditional metal keys and integrate into advanced vehicle security systems. They aren't indestructible either. They are susceptible to damage by extreme temperatures, as well as being dropped and banged. This means that they could break or cease working at the drop a hat. Batteries must also be changed periodically.
If you lose your key fob, it's best to find a locksmith who specializes in your kind of vehicle or a dealership. Locksmiths are able to duplicate keys and program them, but you may have to bring your vehicle's VIN number in addition (usually found on the dashboard of the driver's side door jamb or in your owner's manual). It could be possible to save money if you have a car warranty or roadside assistance coverage plan which covers stolen or lost keys.
For newer vehicles and premium brands like Mercedez or Mercedez, you may be able to get replacement keys from the dealership. This is because preparing an upgrade requires technical and security expertise that the manufacturer has exclusive rights to.
Fortunately, the majority of key fobs are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace provided you have a suitable spare. There are many hardware stores that sell them, and others specialize in duplicate keys for automotive.
Although there's no guarantee you'll be able to locate your lost fob however, you can take steps to improve the odds of finding it, including putting a Tile or AirTag on it, and using an app on your smartphone to help you locate it. Examine the lost and found of any business you visited or the floor you were on.
Before you go and buy an additional one you should look into what happened to the original one. Did auto key replacement break or fall into cracks? Was it dropped on the street? Did you leave it at an eatery or at the back of the taxi? You may be able reclaim your car if you did. In the event that you don't, you'll need purchase a new oneand pay towing charges.
Smart Keys
Even the most diligent of us may lose our car keys. It could be as innocuous as placing them in the fridge while you're grabbing a beverage or forgetting to lock them in the trunk when loading groceries. No matter what the situation, it's important to know what options are available in order to ensure that you're prepared should you have to get a car key lost replacement.
A call to an auto locksmith is the first and cheapest alternative. They usually have all the equipment needed for the job and can provide you with a new key in a short period of time. They can also assist with other issues that affect your vehicle, like opening a door that's locked or starting the car.
Another option is to contact your dealer for assistance, especially if you have a model that uses a smart key system. This type of key transmits an ultra-low-frequency signal to embedded antennas in the vehicle to verify that the driver is within unlocking or launching the car. How Stuff Works Electronics reports that it can store the settings of each driver's for their seat, mirrors and steering wheel.
However, these systems may be vulnerable to hacking by tech-savvy thieves who are able to detect signals and intercept it. This could lead to your vehicle being stolen, or even worse using it as an instrument to control the car you drive away in. Luckily, certain models, like Mercedes-Benz smart keys, employ different frequencies to stop this from occurring.
You can also call your auto insurance company or roadside assistance. They may be able provide a replacement key in the event that you're covered by their conditions and terms. However, these services can be expensive and take some time to arrive.
This kind of key is an excellent way to have an extra in the event in the event of a crisis. You never know when you'll need an Uber to get home from the grocery store and having a spare can give you peace of head in case you're traveling.
Transponder Keys
If your car was built in the recent 20 years or then, there's a good chance that it has a transponder key in it. This anti-theft device is also known as a "chip" key. It makes it extremely difficult to hot wire a vehicle. The keys transmit signals to the computer system of your vehicle when you put it in the ignition, if it detects the signal, it will start the engine. This helps protect your luxury car or family rig from being stolen and lets you know that nobody else than you is driving it. The keys are more expensive than a standard non-transponder key but the added security is well worth the price.
If you lose your transponder keys, the best option is to call your local locksmith. They have the tools to replace keys on most vehicles, and they charge less than dealerships.
If you decide to go with a dealer you'll have to bring your old key fob with you so they can order a new one for you. This could take several days and cost lots of dollars.
A locksmith can cut a spare key. They can cut most key types and can even copy a switchblade type key (which comes with a built-in lock) however they won't be able to program it for your car. This could be a viable option if you don't have other spare keys, but it's not the best option.
The last option is to contact the dealership for your car and ask them to buy a new transponder chip/key fob to be fitted to your vehicle. This will usually take several days, and it's going to be the most expensive option of all.
Lost car keys are a major hassle but they don't have to be as a problem as they seem. You can get back on the road with the assistance of a professional and ensure your car is safe from thieves. Make sure to keep an extra key in your bag or pocket, and always be mindful of where you are when driving!