Car Key Lost Replacement
Losing your car keys could cause a lot of stress. If you're patient and follow the proper steps, as well as some assistance from a professional you can find a replacement key.
The first step is to check every place you can think of - check your pockets, purse, your back seat. Find the nearest authorized dealer of the manufacturer of your vehicle.
Metal Keys from the Old School
If you lose your car keys, the first thing to do is to contact a locksmith and have them create new keys. This is much cheaper than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer, and it will likely be more secure.
You can also use a blank key made of metal that is similar to keys for doors to houses. These keys are cut at most hardware stores as well as locksmiths. The locksmith will use the key code from the owner's manual of your car to pair the key with the locks and ignition.
Another alternative is to have your car towed back to the dealer to have it re-keyed. You will require your vehicle identification number (VIN), located on the driver’s side doorpost or in the trunk. It could also be engraved on a plate placed on the dashboard of the driver's side. Our Site will then connect the new key to your car's computer, so it will not function if you lose it once more.
If you own an transponder key the dealer will need to reset the immobiliser to pair it with a new key. This is a more complex procedure, and it will likely cost you more. You may be able receive a discount from the dealer if you have lost your car keys. It is worth asking for a price.
Smart keys are the most expensive keys for cars to replace, as they don't really look like a traditional key at all and function completely remotely. They can turn on your car and start the engine with one touch, and they are much harder for thieves to duplicate than the older kinds of keys for cars.
Having a spare car key can help you avoid the expense of replacements that are lost However, not everyone has spare keys on hand at all times. You might want to consider purchasing a keyfob for your vehicle if you are prone to lose things.
Fobs
Fobs are much more expensive than the old metal keys and integrate into sophisticated vehicle-security systems. They're also not indestructible. Like any other consumer technology that spends much of its time in people's pockets they're susceptible to being dropped, smashed, or exposed to extreme temperatures. This means that they can break or stop working at the drop of an ointment. Batteries are also required to be replaced on a regular basis.
If you've lost your key fob, it's best to call a locksmith that specializes in your type of car or dealership. Most locksmiths can duplicate and program key fobs, but you may have to bring your VIN number as well (usually found 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 protection plan covers lost or stolen keys.
For cars that are newer or premium brands like Mercedez you might be able to purchase key fobs replacement from the dealership. This is because preparing an upgrade requires a certain level of technical and security knowledge that the manufacturer holds exclusive rights to.
The majority of key fobs are easily replaced and inexpensively if you own an extra. There are many hardware stores that sell them, and others specialize in duplicate keys for automotive.
While there's no guarantee that you'll be able locate the lost object however, you can take steps to increase the odds of finding it, like applying a Tile or AirTag on it and then using a smartphone app to help you find it. Check the lost and found of any businesses you visited or the floor you were on.
Before you go and buy a replacement you should try to figure out what happened to the previous one. Did it fall through a crack? Was it thrown on the street? Did you leave it at a restaurant or in the back of a taxi? If so, you may be able to claim it. You'll have to buy a new vehicle and pay towing charges if you don't.
Smart Keys
Even the most diligent of us may lose keys to our cars. It could be as simple as placing them in the fridge while grabbing an alcoholic beverage, or as serious as not locking them in the trunk when loading groceries. No matter what the scenario is, it's essential to know what options are available to be ready should you ever require a car key lost replacement.
Contacting an auto locksmith is the best and cheapest option. These experts usually have all the equipment needed for the job and will be able to provide you with a brand new key in a short time. They'll also be able assist you with other issues that may arise with your vehicle, like opening a locked door or starting the engine.
Another option is to contact your dealer for assistance, especially if you have one that is equipped with a smart key system. This type of key transmits a low-frequency signal to the antennas of the vehicle to confirm that the driver is near enough to unlock or start the vehicle. How Stuff Works Electronics reports that it can store the settings of each driver for their mirrors, seat and steering wheel.
These systems are susceptible to hackers who can detect the signal. This could lead to your car getting stolen, or worse using it as an instrument to control the car you drive away in. Fortunately, some models, like Mercedes-Benz smart keys, employ different frequencies to stop this from occurring.
You can also call your auto insurance company or roadside assistance. If you're covered under their terms and conditions, they may be able offer a replacement. These services can be expensive and take an extended 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 way to keep an extra one handy for emergencies. You never know when you might need a ride from the grocery store and having a spare key in your possession will give you peace of mind if you're on the move.
Transponder Keys
If your car was built in the past 20 years or so, there's a good chance it comes with a transponder key inside. This anti-theft device is also called a "chip" key. It makes it extremely difficult to hot wire a vehicle. These keys send a message to the computer system in your vehicle when you put them into the ignition. If it recognizes the signals, it will start the vehicle. This helps protect your luxury ride or trusty family vehicle from theft and also lets you know that no one but you is driving it. While these types of keys are more expensive to replace than a standard non-transponder keys, the extra security is worth the price for many.
If you have lost your transponder keys, the best option is to contact your local locksmith. These professionals have the equipment to make replacements for almost any vehicle, and generally charge less than the dealership.
However, if you decide to go the dealership route you'll probably need to bring your old key fob so that they can purchase a new one for you. This could take a few days and cost lots of dollars.
A locksmith can cut a spare key. They can duplicate all types of keys and even the switchblade key (which has a built-in lock) but they cannot program it to your vehicle. This could be a viable option if you don't have any other spares but isn't ideal.
The last option is to call your car dealership and ask them to buy an updated transponder chip/key fob for your vehicle. It usually takes a few days, and it's going to be the most expensive choice of all.
It's a pain to lose keys to your car, however it doesn't have to be as bad as you think. With the help of an expert, you will get back on the road in the shortest time possible and ensure that your vehicle is safe from thieves. Make sure to keep an extra key in your bag or pocket, and always be mindful of where you are driving!