How to Find a Car Key Lost
If keys to your car are lost, it's a major problem. Replacing them can cost several hundred dollars depending on the type of key and the features are included.
You can usually get an alternative for traditional metal keys at the hardware store or locksmith. For smart keys, find your vehicle identification number (VIN) and visit the dealership to purchase the new key and have it linked to your vehicle.
Identifying your keys
The loss of your car keys is one of the most stressful things that could happen to a driver. When you reach for your purse or pocket and cannot find them, it can be difficult to figure out what to do. It is best to remain calm and follow a step-by-step approach to find your keys.
Start by identifying the type of car keys you own. You can get a copy of a mechanical key that only opens the locks from a locksmith at reasonable cost If you own one. You can also get a replacement key with a dealer, but it is usually more expensive.
Most modern cars come with smart keys that trigger a sensor within the car to allow keyless ignition and entry. These keys are harder to lose since they have a built-in feature that keeps the track of where the key is. If you have an intelligent key, you must try and keep it close at all times or it could be difficult to find.
Check your usual hiding places first, before moving to a different location. Check your pockets in your coat and in your shoes and in any bags you've had on you throughout the day. You can also retrace your steps and walk through the day to see the key you've lost.
If you've exhausted all your search options and can't locate your car keys, you should contact a locksmith or dealership for assistance. They'll be able to make a new key for you if you can prove ownership. You can also go to Home Depot to have a basic key copied for vehicles that doesn't have transponder chips.
It's always an excellent idea to keep an extra key on hand even in the event that you don't need them frequently. There are several methods to accomplish this, but most involve giving a duplicate to someone you trust, such as a family member. You can also purchase a Bluetooth tracker to attach to your keys. The app will tell you where they are at all times.
Making copies
A key is a crucial component of a car and it's easy to lose. Many car owners are in situations where their keys get lost or are not working at the most uncomfortable times. Losing your keys is frustrating and annoying, whether it's at the pump, putting groceries in the trunk or after an exhausting day at work.
If you have an extra key, this can be a lifesaver during these situations. If not have one, you can make copies of your keys quickly, easily, and at a low cost at many hardware stores or locksmiths. It is also advisable to keep an additional set of keys in your wallet just in case.
Many people believe that they must go to a dealer in order to get a new car key. This is not always the case. It is contingent on the kind of key you own, and how complex it is.
Modern cars have keys with more than just metal blades. They are equipped with chips that need to be programmed to turn on the car. These are not the kind of keys you can just get cut at a self-service kiosk at the mall, and will not usually work with any other key.
To make a copy of a key, visit your local AutoZone. A representative will make use of a machine to analyze the contours on the key. They will then match it up with a blank key. This is a straightforward process, and it will only take a few minutes to complete. Some places have a tool that can program your key to fit your car model.
Other places that can help you locate a car key copy include family-owned hardware stores as well as big box home improvement stores, and some chain grocery stores. But it is crucial to keep in mind that the copies are only good for ignitions and doors and not remote key fobs. It is a good idea to contact a locksmith to create a duplicate of the smart key or dealer chip key, since they are only duplicated by a professional using the right tools and machines.
Getting an Replacement
There are several alternatives to get a new car key if it's lost. You can go to the dealership that sells your vehicle or visit an automotive locksmith. Each option will cost different amounts. It also depends on the type of key your vehicle is equipped with. lost keys of car have the basic, double-edged car key while others have more intricate keys.
You can locate a list of car locksmiths in your local area by conducting an online search. You should find an auto locksmith that is specialized in auto-related services and has an auto division. You can then contact them to inquire about making a new key. Some of them have mobile units that can visit your location and create an exact key right there. This is a great option if you already have a key that does not have a chip.
Many automobiles today come with keys that are a small electronic device that allows you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. The fob can also be used to start the engine and manage other features of your vehicle. A fob is 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 costly. They might also charge an extra fee for this service, which is the reason many people choose to use an automotive locksmith instead. Some of these companies specialize in the replacement of keys for cars, which can be a cheaper option than going to the dealer.
You will need to take your car to the dealer to have it replaced in the event that you have smart-key. They will need to program the new key into your car. This usually involves opening/closing doors, or turning on/off lights and electronic devices. You will be asked to provide the VIN number for your vehicle as well as a photo ID and any other keys you have.
It is frustrating to lose your car keys, and even more so when you have an extremely tight schedule. There is no need to panic, though. Be sure to search diligently for your keys, purchase a key-finder tag so that they are easier to find, and consider getting a spare fob so that this scenario doesn't happen again.
Finding Help
We could lose our car keys when we are distracted or forgetful. These incidents can be a source of frustration when you accidentally drop them in a river while fishing or leave them in the restaurant while eating. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent these situations from occurring in the future and minimize the damage that occurs when they do occur.
One of the most important things you can do is to make sure you have a spare key on hand. This will avoid the trouble of having to go back to your steps or pay for expensive locksmith service. Another alternative is to invest in a Bluetooth-based key-finder tag that can help you find your lost keys quickly. The tags can be bought online at a fairly affordable cost.
The majority of hardware stores will cut a brand new mechanical key for people who have older cars. However, a lot of cars today utilize key fobs with a lot of technology integrated into. If they are lost, they can be expensive to replace.
If you have roadside assistance insurance the insurance company could arrange for a locksmith make new keys. Based on the type of key you own, this could be much less expensive than creating a new key at an auto dealer.
Another option is to call the dealership where you bought your car and ask them to assist you in creating an entirely new key. It can be more costly than hiring a locksmith, but it is easier to deal with a dealership you know.
The last alternative is to hire locksmiths reprogram the old key, so that it no longer works. This is a risky procedure, so it's recommended to hire a professional to do this for you. Certain locksmiths can do this without removing the key, but it's usually better to let a dealership do it so you can be sure it's done correctly.