Car Key Lost Replacement
Losing your car keys could cause lots of stress. If you're patient and follow the right steps as well as some professional help, you can quickly obtain a replacement key.
Check your pockets, purse, and the back seat. Find the nearest authorized dealer of your car manufacturer.
Old-School Metal Keys
If you lose your car keys the first thing you should do is to call a locksmith to make an entirely new set. This is much less expensive than purchasing it from the dealership, and your car will likely be safer with this method.
You can even make use of an old-fashioned metal blank key, which are like the keys for door locks and are available at the majority of hardware stores and locksmiths. The locksmith will use the key code found in the owner's manual for your car to connect the key to the ignition and locks.
You can also have your vehicle towed to the dealer for re-key. They will need to know your vehicle identification number (VIN), which is located on the doorpost for the driver's side, in the trunk, or stamped on a plaque on the dashboard of the driver's side. They will then pair the new key with your vehicle's computer system to ensure that if you lose it again it will not function.
The dealer will need to reset the immobiliser if you own a transponder. This is a more complicated procedure, and it is likely to cost more. The dealer may be able to offer you the chance to get a replacement car key, it's worth calling them to inquire about a price prior to booking your appointment.
car key replacements can be expensive to replace since they look nothing like a traditional car key and can be operated remotely. They can turn on your car and start the engine with just one touch and are difficult for thieves to duplicate than the older kinds of keys for cars.
Having a spare car key can save you the cost of lost replacements However, not everyone has spare keys on hand at all times. If you're the kind of person who tends to lose things, consider purchasing a key fob for your vehicle so you don't need to worry about it if it goes missing.
Fobs
Fobs are a lot more expensive than metal keys, and they can be integrated into sophisticated security systems for vehicles. They're also not indestructible. Like any tech item that spends a lot of time jostling around in pockets of people's, they can be dropped, banged, and exposed to extreme temperatures. As a result, they may break or cease working at the drop of an ointment. Batteries also need to be replaced on a regular basis.
If you lose your key fob, you'll need to find a locksmith who is skilled in your specific kind of vehicle or a dealership. Locksmiths are generally able to duplicate keys and program them, but you may need to bring your vehicle's VIN number in addition (usually located on the dashboard of the driver's side door jamb, or in your owner's manual). You may be able to save money if your car warranty or roadside coverage plan covers stolen or lost keys.
In the case of more recent vehicles and premium brands such as Mercedez and Mercedes-Benz, you might only be able get replacement keys from the dealership. This is because the manufacturer has exclusive rights for security and technical expertise.
Thankfully, most key fobs are quite affordable and simple to replace provided you have a suitable spare. There are many hardware stores that sell them, and some specialize in duplicate keys for automotive.
You can increase your chances of finding your lost object by putting an AirTag or Tile on it and using an app on your smartphone. Examine the lost and found of any business you visited or the floor you were on.
Before you buy an alternative it is advisable to try to figure out what happened to the previous one. Did it fall in cracks? Was it left on the street? You might be able to retrieve it when you leave it in a restaurant, or in the back of a cab. If so, you may be able to get it back. Otherwise, you'll need to purchase a new one- and pay for towing fees.
Smart Keys
Even the most careful of us may lose our car keys. It could be as simple as placing the keys in the fridge while enjoying a drink, or it could be something more serious such as forgetting to lock the trunk when loading groceries. No matter what the scenario is, it's essential to know the options available to ensure that you're prepared should you require a replacement for your car key.
The first and most affordable, is to call an auto locksmith. They typically have all of the tools required for the job and can provide you with a brand new key in a fairly short time. They can also assist with other issues that affect your vehicle, like opening a door that's locked or starting the car.
The dealer you are dealing with for assistance is another option, especially if your model uses smart-key systems. This type of key transmits an ultra-low-frequency signal to antennas embedded in the vehicle to verify that the driver is close to unlocking or starting the car. How Stuff Works Electronics reports that it is able to store the settings of each driver for their seat, mirrors and steering wheel.
These systems are vulnerable to hackers who may take over the signal. This could lead to your vehicle being stolen, or, even more dangerously, being used as a remote control to drive away in. Certain models, such as Mercedes-Benz smart key, employ different frequencies to avoid this.
One last alternative is to contact an emergency roadside assistance company or your car insurance company. They may be able offer a replacement key if you're covered under their terms and conditions. However they could be costly and take a while to arrive.
This type of key is an excellent way to have a spare in case in the event of an emergency. You never know when you may require a ride to or from the grocery store and having a spare key will give you peace-of-mind if you're out and about.
Transponder Keys
If your car was built in the recent 20 years or so, there's a likely that it has a transponder key in it. Also known as"chip key "chip key" it's an anti-theft device which makes it extremely difficult to wire hot wires into your vehicle. These keys send a message to the computer system of your vehicle when you put them into the ignition. If the computer system recognizes the signals, it will begin to start the vehicle. This will protect your family car or luxury ride from being stolen, and you'll know that you are the only driver. Although these kinds of keys are more costly to replace than a simple non-transponder key, the extra security is worth the price for many.
Call your local locksmith if you've lost the transponder keys. These professionals have the equipment to replace keys for nearly every vehicle, and they generally charge less than the dealership.
If you decide to use a dealer, you'll be required to bring your old key fob so they can purchase an alternative. This can take several days and cost lots of dollars.
Another option is to have a spare key cut by locksmiths. They can cut most key types and can even duplicate a switchblade type key (which includes a built in lock) however they won't be able to program it to your car. This might work if don't have any other spares but isn't ideal.
The final option is to call the dealership directly and request that they make the new key fob/transponder key for your car. It usually takes several days, and it's going to be the most expensive option of all.
It's a hassle to lose your car keys, but it's not as difficult as you think. With the help of an expert, you can get back on the road in the shortest time possible and ensure your car is secure from thieves. Keep the spare car keys in your bag or pocket and be aware of where you are driving.