Car Key Lost Replacement Car keys lost can be a real pain. However, with a bit of patience, the right steps, and some help from an expert, you will get your replacement key quickly. First, look every possible place you can think of: check your pockets, purse, the back seat. Find the nearest authorized dealership of your car manufacturer. Old-School metal keys If you have lost your car keys the first thing you should do is call a locksmith to make new keys. This is much cheaper than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer, and it will be more secure. You can also use a metal blank key that is similar to the keys for doors to houses. These keys can be cut by a majority of hardware stores and locksmiths. The locksmith will then utilize the key code found in your owner's manual to pair the new key with the locks and ignition of your vehicle. Another alternative is to get your car towed back to the dealer in order to have it changed to a new key. They'll need your vehicle identification number (VIN), which is located on the driver's side doorpost, in the trunk, or stamped on a plaque on the driver's side dashboard. They will then combine the new key to the computer in your car so that it will not function should you lose it once more. If you have an transponder key and the dealer have to reset the immobiliser to pair it with the new key. This is a more complicated procedure, and will likely cost you more. You may be able get a discount from a dealer if you have lost your car keys. It's worth asking for a price. Smart keys are costly to replace as they appear unlike a traditional car key, and they operate remotely. They can turn on your car and start the engine with a press of a button, and they are much difficult for thieves to duplicate than the older types of car keys. A spare car key can save you the cost of lost replacements However, not everyone has spare keys on hand at all times. You might want to consider purchasing a keyfob for your car if you tend to lose things. Fobs Fobs are more expensive than the old metal keys, and can be integrated into sophisticated security systems for vehicles. They're not completely safe. They are susceptible to being damaged by extreme temperatures, and also being hit and dropped. They could stop working or break at any time. Batteries also need to be replaced regularly. If you lose your key fob, you'll need to find a locksmith who is specialized in your particular type of car or dealership. Locksmiths are generally able to duplicate keys and program them, but you may need to bring your vehicle's VIN number as well (usually found on the dashboard of the driver's side door jamb, or in the owner's manual). It may be possible to save money if you have a car warranty or roadside assistance plan that covers stolen or lost keys. For newer cars and high-end brands like Mercedez or Mercedez, you may be able get replacement key fobs at the dealership. This is because preparing the replacement requires a certain level of technical and security knowledge that the manufacturer owns exclusive rights to. Most key fobs are easily replaced and inexpensively if you own a spare. A lot of hardware stores sell them, and others specialize in duplicating automotive keys. While there's no guarantee that you'll be able locate your lost fob but you can make steps to increase the chances of finding it, like putting a Tile or AirTag on it and then using a smartphone app to assist you in finding it. Look through the lost and found of any businesses you visited or the floor you were on. You should always try and find out what happened to your old model before purchasing the new model. Did it fall through cracks? Did it end up on the street? Did you leave it in an eatery or in the back of a taxi? If so, you may be able to reclaim it. You'll have to buy a new vehicle and pay for towing fees if you do not. Smart Keys Keys There are occasions that even the most diligent of us forget our car keys. It could be something like putting the keys in the refrigerator while you're enjoying a drink, or it could be something more serious such as forgetting to lock the trunk while loading groceries. No matter what the scenario it's crucial to know what options are available in order to ensure you're prepared should you require a replacement for your car key. The first and most affordable, is to call an auto locksmith. They usually have all the tools needed to complete the task and can provide you with a brand new key in a short amount of time. They'll also assist you with any other issues related to your vehicle, for example, opening the door that is locked or starting the engine. Contacting your dealer for help is another option, particularly if your model uses smart-key systems. This type of key sends an ultra-low-frequency signal to antennas embedded in the vehicle to verify that the driver is near to unlocking or starting the car. How Stuff Works Electronics reports that it stores the settings of each driver for their seat, mirrors and the steering wheel. These systems are vulnerable to hackers who could detect the signal. This could result in your car getting stolen, or worse using it as an remote control to drive away in. Fortunately, some models, such as Mercedes-Benz smart keys, use different frequencies to stop this from occurring. You can also call your insurance company for autos or roadside assistance. They may be able provide a replacement key in the event that you're covered by their conditions and terms. However they could be expensive and take a while to arrive. This type of key is an excellent option to have an extra in case in the event of an emergency. You never know when you'll need an Uber to get home from the grocery store and having a spare can give you peace of head when you're on the move. Transponder Keys If your car was made in the recent 20 years or then, there's a likely that it has a transponder key inside. Also known as a "chip key" this is an anti-theft device which makes it extremely difficult to hot wire your vehicle. These keys send a signal to the computer system of your vehicle when you put it in the ignition. If https://www.openlearning.com/u/medeirosandrews-sk10z9/blog/TheSageAdviceOnReplacementCarKeyFromAnOlderFiveYearOld detects the signal, it will start the engine. This will safeguard your family's vehicle or luxury vehicle from being stolen, and you'll be able to know that you're the sole driver. These keys are more expensive than a regular non-transponder key however the added security is well worth the cost. Contact your local locksmith if you lose the transponder keys. These professionals have the equipment to make replacements for almost any vehicle, and generally charge less than a dealership. If you decide to purchase from a dealership, you will need to bring along your old key fob so they can purchase a new one. This could take a few days and cost a lot of money. Another option is to get an extra key cut by a locksmith. They can duplicate the majority of keys as well as the switchblade key (which comes with a lock built-in) but they cannot program it to your vehicle. This may work if you don't have any other spares, but it's not ideal. The last option is to call your dealership that you bought your car from and ask them to order a new transponder chip/key fob for your vehicle. This option is the most expensive option and will take a few additional days. Lost car keys are a hassle however, they don't need to be as bad as they may seem. You can be back on the road with the assistance of a professional and ensure your car is safe from thieves. Be sure to keep a spare key in your bag or pocket and be aware of where you are when driving!