How to Find a Car Key Lost
If car keys get lost, it's a big problem. The cost of replacing them can be several hundred dollars, dependent on the type and features.
You can typically find a replacement for traditional keys made of metal from a hardware store or locksmith. You'll require your vehicle identification number (VIN) and then visit a dealer to order a new smart key and have it linked to your vehicle.
Identifying your keys
The loss of your car keys is among the most stressful things that can happen to a driver. It can be a bit confusing to know what to say when you are unable to locate your keys in your purse or pocket. To locate your keys, it's best to stay in a calm state and follow a step by step approach.
Start by identifying the type of car keys you have. If you own a traditional mechanical key that only operates the locks and locks, you can get a locksmith to make copies at a reasonable cost. You can also exchange your key with a dealer, however, it's typically more expensive.
The majority of newer cars come with a smart key which activates a sensor in the car for keyless entry and ignition. These keys are harder to lose since they have built-in features that keep track of the location of the key. If you have a smart key, it's important to try and keep it close at all times or it could be difficult to locate.
Find your usual hiding places first, before moving to a different location. Check your pockets in your coat and in the shoes you're wearing, and in any bags you've carried around throughout the day. You could also walk back through the day and going back to find where you may have lost the key.
You should contact a dealer or locksmith for assistance if have exhausted all your search options, but you are still unable to locate your car key. If you can show proof of ownership, they can provide you with an alternative. If you own a car without transponder chips, you can also get an initial copy made at Home Depot.
Even if you don’t lose your keys frequently it is recommended to have a spare key on the go. There are several methods to accomplish this, but most involve giving an extra key to an individual who is a trusted family member. You can also invest in an Bluetooth tracker to attach to your keys. The app will inform you where they are at any time.
Making a Copy
Keys are a vital part of a vehicle, and it's easy to lose. Many car owners find themselves in situations when they lose their keys or stop working at the worst possible time. Losing your keys is frustrating and annoying, whether it's at the pump, putting groceries in the trunk or following a hard day at work.
If you have an extra key, it could be a lifesaver during these situations. If not have one, you can create copies of your keys quickly, easily, and inexpensively at most hardware stores or locksmiths. It's also an excellent idea to keep an extra key in your wallet, just in case!
Many people believe that they have to go to a dealership to obtain a replacement car key. This is not always the situation. It is contingent on the kind of key you own, and how complicated it is.
Modern cars have keys that are more than just steel blades. They have chips that must be programmed to start the car. These are not the type of keys you can cut at the self-service kiosks at the mall. They also cannot be used with other keys.
The easiest way to make a key copy is to go to your local AutoZone and have an associate make use of a machine that can read the contours of the key, and then match it to a blank key and cut it for you. It's a simple procedure 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.
You can also find an exact copy of your car keys at family-owned hardware stores, large chain stores for home improvement as well as some grocery stores. It is important to know that these copies are only suitable for the ignitions and doors of your car, not the remote keys. It is a good idea to get in touch with a locksmith to duplicate the smart key or dealer chip key, since these are only copied by a professional with the appropriate equipment and tools.
Replacement
There are a few alternatives to get an alternative car key if 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 has. Certain cars come with a simple, double-edged car key while others have more complicated keys.
Internet searches can help you locate car locksmiths near you. 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 firms have a mobile unit which can create a key at your location. This is a great option when you have a conventional key that does not have a chip inside it.
A majority of automobiles today come with keys that are a small electronic device that lets you lock and unlock your vehicle from the distance. The fob can also be used to start your engine as well as manage other features of your vehicle. It is easily lost. There are ways to avoid this from happening, for instance keeping a spare fob in your pocket.
The dealership can replace your car keys for you, but they can be expensive. Some dealerships charge a fee to replace your lost keys to your car. This is why many people opt for an automotive locksmith. Some of these companies specialize in replacing keys for cars, which can be a cheaper alternative than visiting the dealer.
You'll have to take your car to the dealer to have it replaced with smart-key. They will have to program the new key into your car. This typically involves opening and closing doors, or turning off/on electronics and lights. You will be asked to provide the VIN number of your car as well as a photo ID and any other keys you have.
The loss of a car keys is always a source of frustration, but it can be more difficult when you're in a hurry and need to get somewhere. You don't need to be worried. 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 locate and to consider buying an additional fob to avoid this occurring again.
Assistance
We can lose our car keys when we're distracted or not paying attention. Whether you drop keys in the water while fishing or leave them in the restaurant when you're eating out These types of accidents can be difficult to manage. There are steps you can take to prevent these situations from occurring in the future, and to reduce the damage if they do happen.
Always keep a spare set of keys on hand. This will save you the hassle of having to trace your steps again or pay for a costly locksmith services. Another alternative is to invest in an RFID-based key-finder tag with Bluetooth that can help you find your keys quickly. The tags can be bought online at a fairly affordable cost.
For those with older cars that use mechanical keys, it's possible to have a new one cut at a variety of hardware stores for just a couple of dollars. Many cars use key fobs that have a lot of technology. If you lose these key fobs, they can be expensive to replace.
If you have roadside assistance coverage, the insurance company may pay for a locksmith to come out and create an original copy. Depending on the kind of key you have it could be less expensive than creating a new key at the dealership.
Another option is to contact the dealership where you purchased your car to ask them to assist you with creating an entirely new key. My Page may cost more than hiring a locksmith however it's more stress-free to work with a dealership you know.
The last alternative is to have a locksmith deprogram the old key, so that it is no longer working. This can be a risky process, so it's recommended to have a professional do this for you. Some locksmiths are able do this without taking off the key, however it is usually easier to let a dealership handle it to make certain it's done right.