Car Key Lost Replacement
Losing your car keys can cause an immense amount of anxiety. If you're patient and follow the right steps and some help from a professional you can easily get a new key.
The first step is to check every place you can think of - check your pockets, your purse, your back seat. Then, find the nearest authorized dealer of your vehicle's manufacturer.
Old-school Metal Keys
If you lose your car key the first thing you'll need to do is find locksmiths to come out and make a replacement. This is much less expensive than getting it from the dealership, and your car is likely to be safer with this method.
You can even make use of an old-fashioned steel blank key, which is like the keys used on house doors and can be cut at many hardware stores and locksmiths. The locksmith will use the key code found in the owner's manual for your car to pair the key with the locks and ignition.
Another alternative is to get your vehicle towed back to the dealer in order to have it changed to a new key. They will need to know your vehicle identification number (VIN), which you can find on the doorpost for the driver's side or in the trunk or stamped on a plaque on the dashboard of the driver's side. They will then link the new key to your car's computer so that it will not function should you ever lose it again.
The dealer will have to reset the immobiliser in case you have transponders. This is a far more complicated process and will cost you more. It is possible to get a discount from a dealer in the event that you lose the car keys. It's worth asking for a quote.
Smart keys are the most expensive car keys to replace because they don't really look like the traditional keys and operate completely remotely. They can start your car with just a single button press, and turn it on. They are also more difficult to copy than traditional car keys.
A spare car key is a great way to avoid costly replacements. However it isn't always kept in their possession. Consider purchasing a key fob for your vehicle if you are prone to lose things.
Fobs
Fobs cost a lot more than keys made of metal and can be integrated into sophisticated security systems for vehicles. They're not impervious to damage either. Like any consumer tech that spends much of its time in people's pockets they're susceptible to being dropped, banged, and exposed to extreme temperatures. They could fail or even break at any moment. Batteries also need to be replaced regularly.
If you lose your car key, you'll need to find an authorized locksmith or a dealer that specializes in your specific type of vehicle. Locksmiths are generally able to duplicate and program key fobs, however, you might need to bring your VIN number in addition (usually located on the dashboard of the driver's side door jamb or in the owner's manual). It is possible to save some money in the event that you have a vehicle warranty or roadside assistance plan which covers stolen or lost keys.
For cars that are newer or premium brands such as Mercedez you may be able only to get key fobs replacement from the dealership. This is because the manufacturer holds exclusive rights to security and technical expertise.
Most key fobs are easily replaced and inexpensively if you have an extra. A lot of hardware stores sell them, and some specialize in key duplication for automotive keys.
Although there's no guarantee you'll find your lost fob however, you can take steps to increase chances of finding it, like putting an AirTag or Tile AirTag on it and then using an app on your smartphone to assist you in finding it. Check the lost and found of any establishments you visited or the floor you were on.
You should always try and find out what has happened to your old device before you buy an entirely new one. Did it break or fall into cracks? Was it thrown on the street? You might be able to recover it in the event that you left it in a restaurant or the back of a cab. You might be able to return your car if you did. You'll need to buy a new vehicle and pay towing charges if you do not.
Smart Keys
Even the best of us can lose keys to our cars. It could be something as simple as placing keys in the fridge while enjoying a drink or something more serious such as forgetting to lock the trunk when loading groceries. It's important to be prepared for any scenario that might arise, including the possibility of your car key being lost.
The first option, and most affordable, is to call an auto locksmith. These experts will have all the tools required to complete the task and will be able to provide you with a new key in a short period of time. They'll also be able to assist you with any other issues related to your vehicle, such as opening an unlocked door or launching the engine.
Another option is to contact your dealer for help particularly if you own an automobile that has a smart key system. This type of key transmits an low-frequency signal to the antennas embedded in the vehicle to confirm that the driver is within unlocking or starting the car. How Stuff Works Electronics reports that it can store the settings of each driver for their seat, mirrors and steering wheel.
However, these systems could be susceptible to hacking by smart thieves who are able to detect signals and then intercept it. This could lead to your car getting stolen, or even worse using it as an remote control to drive away in. Certain models, such as Mercedes-Benz smart key, use different frequencies to avoid this.
One final option is to call an emergency roadside assistance service or your insurance company for your vehicle. If you are covered by their terms and conditions, they might be able to offer the replacement. These services can be costly and take some time to arrive.
In addition to being a convenient and efficient method to ensure you don't lose your car keys, this type of key is also an excellent method to keep an extra one handy for emergencies. You never know when you may require a ride to the supermarket So having a spare key in your possession will provide you with peace of mind when you are on the go.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are very common in vehicles built within the last 20 years. This anti-theft device is called a "chip" key. It makes it very difficult to hot wire a vehicle. These keys send a signal to the computer system of your vehicle whenever you insert them into the ignition. If the computer system recognizes the signals, it will be able to start the vehicle. This protects your luxurious vehicle or beloved family rig from being stolen and lets you know that nobody else than you is driving it. These keys are more expensive than a standard non-transponder key, but the added security is worth the cost.
If you've lost your transponder keys The best solution is to contact your local locksmith. These professionals have the equipment to make replacements for almost every vehicle, and they typically charge less than the dealership.
If remote car key replacement cost choose to go the dealership route you'll probably need to bring your old key fob so they can purchase a new one for you. This can take a few days and cost you a fair amount of money.
A locksmith can also cut keys for you to use as spare keys. They can cut all keys and even copy a switchblade type key (which comes with a built-in lock) however they won't be able to program it for your car. This is a great option if there are no other spares however it's not the best option.
The last option is to call the car dealership directly and request that they order you an additional key fob/transponder key for your vehicle. It usually takes a few days and will be the most expensive choice of all.
Car keys that are lost can be a pain however, they don't need to be as a problem as they appear. You can quickly get back on the road with the help of a professional and protect your vehicle from thieves. Make sure you have an extra key in your pocket or bag and be aware of where you are when driving!