How to Replace a Lost Car Key
It can be a real problem to lose your car keys. Calling your local dealer or locksmith is usually the best way to start. To make a replacement key, they will need proof of ownership along with the old key.
However, this is not always the most cost-effective method to take.
Traditional Keys
Traditional car keys made of metal were once the most common type of key for vehicles. They have grooves on both sides that can be inserted into a set of slots in the ignition. The key is then put into the ignition and turned to start your car. If you have lost a traditional key it is less expensive than other keys to obtain a replacement.
You can have a classic key made by an automotive locksmith while you are waiting. They'll need your vehicle's make and model along with the year of its manufacture. The locksmith may also need to present proof of ownership to confirm that you are legally able to purchase a brand new key.
If you own a more recent vehicle, it's likely to have a transponder key. These are a bit more expensive to replace than traditional keys, however they are more secure against theft. The plastic head of the transponder keys has an electronic chip which communicates with the computer system in your vehicle to ensure that it can only be activated with the right key.
The chips inside modern transponder keys are typically programmed with a specific code when the car is first sold. Some have rolling codes, which send an additional code each time the key is used. This makes it difficult for thieves to copy them. If you own a modern vehicle that has a transponder keys, you should always keep it in a secure place.
Transponder keys have a greater lifespan than traditional metal keys, but they're more expensive to replace should you lose them. You'll need to contact your dealer to request an alternative transponder key in the event that you lose one. You'll need to supply your VIN, a 17-digit number that informs the dealer of the vehicle it is compatible with.
You will also need to provide your car's serial number. This number is located on a sticker in the door of the driver or on the owner's manual. It is essential to have these numbers in your car as they can help you locate your car if it's lost or stolen.
Transponder Keys
If you own a vehicle made in the past 20 years or so, it is likely that your key contains a transponder chip. These tiny pieces of technology are programmed to the specific vehicle, ensuring only you are able to start it. To make sure that the correct key is used to start your car, your transmission will be locked if it detects that the code on your key is not compatible with its code.
These keys are great for your car since they deter car theft. In the past, thieves of cars could simply connect two wires together and use them to start the car, in an operation called hot wiring. However, once cars began with transponder chips, it became more difficult to steal them as the thief needs to have the right key to transmit the signal needed to start your car.
If you own a traditional car key and lose it, you can get a new one cut on the spot by a local locksmith. The old one will be removed from the vehicle's system. On the other hand, if you have a transponder or fob key, you will need to go to the dealership to have it replaced. The dealer will need your VIN (Vehicle ID Number) to get the correct key for your vehicle.
They'll need to ensure that the key they buy for you is compatible with your vehicle to be able to start it and open its doors. To receive an alternative key, you'll have to provide proof of ownership, such as your registration or title. This may make this type of replacement a little more expensive however in the end, it's worth it when you consider that your vehicle's key could be stolen. If you're concerned about the expense, you should check whether your warranty or insurance will cover the cost. If it isn't then you'll require bringing your vehicle to the dealership in order to have it towed there and ordered from the manufacturer.
Fob Keys
The most recent kind of car keys are designed to act like remotes, letting drivers open the doors and start the engine without having to insert a traditional key into the ignition. These keys, also known as remote control or keyless entry keys, are typically less expensive to replace than older, traditional variety. However, like any piece of technology used in the modern world they're not impervious to damage. They're also easy for people to lose and they can cease to function in time when they are moved around in your purse or pocket.
Fobs emit a code electronic that allows drivers to unlock and start their car. When the fob is tapped against a sensor in the car it reads the code and the doors are opened and the engine is started. Some fobs come with additional features such as a button to summon the car (similar to the Tesla summon feature).
If you lose your key fob, ensure that your keys aren't in a purse or bag that is locked. Then, if they are not in your possession, look through your day and consider where you might have lost the keys. Check your pockets, in bags that you had in your bag, and on counters or other surfaces. You may be able find your keys where you put them, or where you put them where you were going to purchase something.
You can buy replacement keys on the internet, but they need to be programmed for your vehicle. Certain key fobs, for instance those used by Audi or Subaru require to be programmed at the dealership. There's good news! Roadside assistance companies such as AAA can help you with this.
If you do decide to purchase a new key fob, comparison shop. mouse click for source will program and cut a fob bought elsewhere for less than they would for doing the same thing at the dealer. It is also possible to replace the outer shells of some key fobs with the electronics in working condition. Check your auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether this is covered.
Keys that are chipped Keys
Cars have become more technologically advanced over time, which has lead to more sophisticated car keys. These keys can't be duplicated by a locksmith. They require a specific machine. It can be more expensive to replace keys that are lost in the car with chip.
If you lose your transponder chip key or it is stolen from you, then you will need to contact the local dealership to get a replacement. This is because they keep a record of the security information in their system and can pair an updated chip with your vehicle without much hassle. The process can take a few days however, since the dealer must obtain the key from the manufacturer, and it will likely take some time to get it.
The good thing is that it's possible to have a duplicate of your transponder chip by an experienced locksmith. The process is a bit more complex than going to the dealer however it will save you lots of money in the long run. To get a duplicate key, you'll require the VIN number of your vehicle. This number is available on your insurance policy or on the sticker on the driver's door jamb.
You'll also need an exact duplicate of your old key that you can bring to the locksmith. This way the locksmith will be able to match the key cuts. If you're unable to find the old key, you can try looking in the trunk and other places where it might be hidden. You can also search your pockets and bags. You never know where you hid your keys, or the possibility that they fell out of your bag while you were reaching for something other.
It is imperative to immediately start searching for your car keys if you cannot find them. First, make sure that you haven't left keys at home or at the office. Then, take a close look at your day to determine if they may be lost. Once you've emptied all your pockets and inspected all of your bags, it's time to begin using more advanced search techniques.