How to Find a Car Key Lost
Car keys can be a major issue when they are lost. The cost of replacing them could be a few hundred dollars dependent on the type and features included.
For traditional keys made of metal, you can typically get a replacement from the hardware or locksmith store. For smart keys, you'll need locate your vehicle identification number (VIN) and then visit an auto dealer to purchase a new one and then have it connected to your car.
Identifying your keys
Losing your keys to your car is among the most stressful things that could happen to a driver. If you reach into your bag or pocket and cannot find them, it can be difficult to decide what to do. It's best to remain calm and take a step-by-step approach to find your keys.
Begin by identifying the type of car key you have. You can purchase a duplicate of an electronic key that operates the locks from a locksmith for a reasonable price if you have one. You can also find an alternative from the dealer but they're usually more expensive.
The majority of newer cars come with a smart key which activates the car's sensors for keyless ignition and entry. They are less likely to lose because they have an inbuilt feature that keeps track of the location of the key. Keep your smart key close to your side or you could find it difficult to locate.
You should first check your regular places of hiding first before moving to other places. Check in lost car key as in your shoes, and in any bags you've carried throughout the day. You can also go back and trace your steps back through the day to see whether you've lost your keys.
If you've exhausted all of your options to find your car keys, you should contact a locksmith or dealership for help. They'll be able to make a new key for you, provided that you can prove ownership. You can also visit Home Depot to have a basic key copied for vehicles that doesn't have transponder chips.
Even if you don't lose your keys often, it’s a good idea always to keep a spare key on your side. You can do this in a number of different ways however the most popular is to give an additional key to a family member or trusted friend. You can also buy an Bluetooth tracker to connect to your keys. The app will notify you where they are at every moment of the day.
Making a copy
Keys are a vital part of a vehicle, and it's easy to lose. Many car owners are in situations where their keys are lost or don't work at the most difficult times. The loss of keys can be frustrating and inconvenient, whether it's at the pump, loading groceries into the trunk, or after a hard day at work.
The good news is that if you have an extra key, it can help you in these scenarios. If not have one, you can create copies of your keys quickly, easily and cheaply at most hardware stores or locksmiths. You should also keep an additional set of keys in your wallet just in the case.
Many people are under the impression that they must visit a dealership to obtain a new car key. This isn't always the situation. The complexity of the key and the kind you have will determine how it operates.
Modern cars have keys with more than just blades of metal. They have chips that must be programmed to turn on the car. These are not the types of keys that you just get cut at a self-service kiosk in the mall, and they do not typically work with other keys.
The easiest method of making the key copy is to simply visit your local AutoZone and ask an associate to use a machine that can detect the contours of the key, then compare it to a blank key and cut it for you. It's a simple procedure that takes just a few moments to complete. Some locations even have a device that can program the key for your specific model of car.
Other places that could assist you with copies of your car keys include family-owned hardware stores, big box home improvement stores and a few chain grocery stores. It is important to note that these copies only work on the ignitions and doors of your vehicle, not the remote keys. It is a good idea to get in touch with a locksmith to create a duplicate of an electronic key or dealer chip key, because they can only be duplicated by a professional using the proper equipment and tools.
Requesting a Replacement
There are several options when you lose your car key. You can go to the dealer where the car is sold or go to an automotive locksmith. Each option will cost a different amount. It also depends on the kind of key you own. Some have a simple double-edged key and others are more complex.
Search engines can help you locate locksmiths for cars in your area. Choose a locksmith that specializes in vehicles and preferably has an auto division. You can then contact them to inquire about making a new key. Some have a mobile unit which can travel to your location and make you an exact key right there. This is very convenient when you have a conventional key that doesn't come with a chip in it.
A majority of cars today are equipped with keys that are an electronic device that allows you to lock and unlock your car from an extended distance. The fob can also be used to start the engine and control other functions of your vehicle. A fob can be easy to lose. You can avoid this by keeping an additional fob in your pocket.
The dealership will replace your lost keys for you however, they can be expensive. They might also charge a premium for this service, which is the reason many prefer to go with an auto locksmith instead. Certain locksmiths specialize in the replacement of car keys, which can be a cheaper alternative than visiting the dealer.
You'll have to take your car to the dealer to get it replaced if you have a smart-key. They will have to program the new key to your vehicle. This typically involves opening or closing doors, or turning off/on electronics and lights. You will be asked to supply the VIN number for your vehicle as well as a photo ID and any other keys you may have.
It is frustrating to lose car keys, but more so when you're on a the pressure of a strict schedule. There's no need to be in a panic. Just remember to search thoroughly for your keys, invest in an identification tag for your keys so that they're easier to locate, and also consider purchasing a spare key fob to ensure that this doesn't happen again.
Assistance
Sometimes, we get distracted or forgetful and end up losing keys to our cars. When you drop them in the river when fishing, or leave them at the restaurant when you're eating out These kinds of accidents happen and can be a hassle to manage. There are ways you can keep these types of situations from happening in the future, and to reduce the damage if they do occur.
It is recommended to always have an extra set of keys on hand. This can help avoid the difficulty of retracing your steps or paying for costly locksmith services. Another alternative is to invest in an electronic key-finder which can help you locate your keys quickly. The tags can be bought online for a relatively affordable cost.
For older vehicles that have mechanical keys you can get a new key cut at most hardware stores for just a couple of dollars. A lot of cars have key fobs that are equipped with lots of technology. If you lose them key fobs, they can be expensive to replace.
If you have roadside assistance coverage, the insurance company may provide a locksmith to visit and create new keys. Based on the type of key you own, this could be much cheaper than creating a new key at an auto dealer.
Another option is to contact the car dealership where you purchased your car to ask them to assist you with creating the new key. It can be more costly than hiring a locksmith but it is easier to deal with a dealership you know.
A locksmith can reprogram your old key to make it inoperable. It is best to let a professional handle this process as it can be very risky. Some locksmiths are able to do this without taking off the key, however it's generally better to let a dealership do this so that you can be certain that it's done properly.