How to Find a Car Key Lost

If car keys get lost my only car key, it's an enormous problem. Replacing them can cost several hundreds of dollars based on the kind of key and what features are included.

It is possible to purchase an alternative to traditional keys made of metal at the hardware store or locksmith. You'll require your vehicle identification number (VIN), and then visit a dealer to order a replacement smart key and have it paired with your car.

Identifying your keys

The most stressful thing that can happen to any driver is losing their keys to their car. It can be difficult to know what to say when you can't locate your keys in your purse or pocket. To locate your keys, it's best to remain in a calm state and follow a step by step method.

Begin by identifying what kind of car key you own. You can purchase a duplicate of a mechanical key that only can operate the locks from a locksmith for reasonable cost in the event that you own one. You can also purchase a replacement from a dealership however, they tend to be more expensive.

Most newer cars use a smart key that activates a sensor within the car to allow keyless entry and ignition. These keys are much more difficult to lose, as they have a built-in feature that keeps track where the key is. Keep your smart keys close at the ready in case you be unable to locate it.

Check your usual hiding places first, before moving to a different location. Check in your coat pockets, in your shoes and in any bags that you've had on you throughout the day. You can also retrace your steps and walk back through the day to see if you lost your key.

If you've exhausted your options for searching and you are unable to locate your car keys, it's time to contact a locksmith or dealership to get help. They'll make a replacement for you, provided that you can prove ownership. You can also go to Home Depot to have a basic key copied if you're driving a model that doesn't come with transponder chips.

Even if you don't lose your keys frequently, it’s a good idea always to keep a spare key in the go. You can do this in a few different ways however the most popular is to give the duplicate key to an individual in your family or a trusted friend. You can also invest in a Bluetooth tracker that you can attach to your keys. The app will tell you where they are at every moment of the day.

Making copies

It's easy to misplace keys, which are an essential part of your vehicle. Many car owners find themselves in situations where they lose their keys or have them stop working at the worst possible time. The loss of keys can be frustrating and annoying, whether it's at the gas pump, putting groceries in the trunk or following an exhausting day at work.

The good news is that if you have an additional key, it could help in these scenarios. If not have one, you can make copies of your keys quickly, easily, and cheaply at most locksmiths or hardware stores. It's also recommended to keep an extra key in your wallet, just in case!

Many people are under the impression that they need to go to a dealership in order to get an alternative car key. This is not always the situation. The complexity of the key and the kind you are using will determine how it works.

Most modern cars have keys that are more than metal blades. They contain chips which require programming in order to start the engine. These are not the kind of keys that you can just get cut at a self-serve kiosk at the mall, and will not work with any other key.

To create a duplicate of the key, go to your local AutoZone. An associate will utilize a machine examine the contours of the key. They will then match it with an uncut key. It's a simple procedure, and will take only just a few minutes. Some places even have a tool that can program the key for your specific model of car.

Other places that could help you locate a car key copy include family owned hardware stores and big box home improvement stores, and a few chain grocery stores. It is important to remember that these copies only work on the ignitions and doors of your car and not for remote keys. It is best to speak with locksmiths if you wish to duplicate a smart keys, or a dealer's chip. The keys must be created by a professional with the right tools and equipment.

Finding an Exchange

There are a few options to obtain a new car key if it is lost. You can either go to the dealer where your car is sold or to an automotive locksmith. Each option will cost different amounts. It is also contingent on the type of key you have. Some keys are simple, double-edged type while others are more complex.

You can locate a list of car locksmiths in your area by doing an online search. Look for one that specializes in vehicles and preferably has an auto division. You can then contact them to inquire about making the new key. Some firms have a mobile unit which can make keys at your location. This is a great option for when you already have keys that do not have a chip.

Many cars today have keys that are a small electronic device that allows you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. The fob can also be used to start the engine and control other functions of your vehicle. A fob can be very easy to lose. You can prevent this by keeping an additional fob in your pocket.

Dealerships can repair your keys that have been lost however it could be expensive. They may also charge you a premium for this service, which is why many prefer to go with an auto locksmith instead. Some of these firms specialize in replacing keys to cars. This is an affordable alternative to going to an auto dealer.

You will need to bring your car to a dealer to have it replaced with a smart-key. They will have to program the new key to your vehicle. This usually involves closing and opening doors and switching electronics and lights on and off. You'll need your car's VIN number and a photo ID along with the other set of keys that you carry with you.

It's a pain to lose car keys, but more so when you are on a an extremely tight schedule. There is no need to panic, though. Make sure you look for your keys with care, to get a key-finder label to make them easier to find and to consider buying a spare fob to avoid this occurring again.

Assistance

We can lose our car keys when we're distracted or forgetful. These incidents can be a source of frustration, whether you accidentally drop them in a river when fishing, or lose them in the restaurant while eating. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to keep these types of situations from happening in the future and to minimize the damage when they do occur.

One of the best ways to protect yourself is to make sure you have a spare key in your bag. This will save you the hassle of having to trace your steps again or pay for expensive locksmith service. You can also invest in a Bluetooth key-finder tag to help you quickly locate your keys. They can be purchased online for a relatively affordable price.

If you have a car that have keys that are mechanical it is possible to get a new one made at a number of hardware stores for a couple of dollars. But, many modern cars utilize key fobs with many features integrated into. They can be costly to replace if you lose them.

If you have roadside assistance insurance the insurance company could pay for a locksmith to make a new copy. Based on the kind of key you have it could be cheaper than creating a new key at an auto dealer.

Another option is to contact the dealership from which you purchased your vehicle and inquire if they can assist you create an entirely new key. It can be more costly than hiring a locksmith however it is less stressful to deal with a dealer you are familiar with.

A locksmith can deprogram your old key, making it unusable. It's best to let a professional take care of this task as it can be very dangerous. Certain locksmiths can perform this without removing the key, but it's usually easier to let a dealership handle it for you, so that you can be sure it will be done correctly.