How to Find a Car Key Lost

Car keys are a big problem when they're lost. Replacing them can cost a few hundred dollars, based on the kind of key and what features are included.

It is possible to purchase an alternative for traditional keys made of metal at the hardware store or locksmith. For smart keys, you'll need locate your vehicle identification number (VIN) and then visit the dealership to purchase the new key and have it paired to your vehicle.

Identifying Your Keys

The most stressful thing that can happen to any driver is losing their keys to their car. When you reach into your pocket or bag and can't find them, it can be difficult to decide what to do. It is best to remain at peace and take a step-bystep approach to find your keys.

Begin by identifying the type of car key you own. If you have a traditional mechanical key that only opens the locks, you can have a locksmith make a copy at an affordable rate. You can also get an alternative from the dealer, but they are usually more expensive.

The majority of newer cars have a smart key that triggers a sensor inside the car to allow keyless ignition and entry. They are also more difficult to lose because they have a built-in feature that monitors where the key is. Keep your smart keys close at hand or you may be unable to locate it.

You should check your usual hiding spots before moving to other locations. Examine your pockets for coats, shoes, and any bags you've carried with you during the day. You can also retrace your steps and walk through the day to check whether you've lost your keys.

You should contact a dealer or locksmith for assistance if you have exhausted all options and are still unable to locate your car key. If you can provide proof of ownership, they'll provide you with a replacement. If you own a vehicle with no transponder chips, then you can also have a basic copy made at Home Depot.

Even if you don’t lose your keys often it's a good idea always to keep a spare key on the go. There are several methods to accomplish this, but the majority involve giving the duplicate to a trusted friend or family member. Another alternative is to purchase an Bluetooth key tracker. It can be positioned on your keys and connected to an app that will tell you where your keys are at any given moment.

Making an Copy

A key is a crucial component of a car key lost no spare and it's easy to lose. Many car owners are in situations where they lose their keys or stop working at the most inconvenient time. Losing your keys is frustrating and annoying, whether it's at the pump, loading groceries into the trunk, or after working for a long time.

If you have an extra key, it could be a lifesaver during these situations. If you don't have an extra key it is possible to easily and cheaply make a duplicate at many hardware stores or locksmiths. It's also an excellent idea to keep an extra key in your wallet, just in case!

Many people are under the impression that they have to visit a dealership to obtain an alternative car key. However, this isn't always true. The complexity of the key and the kind you are using will determine how it works.

The majority of modern automobiles have keys that are more than metal blades. They have chips inside them that require programming to begin the engine. These aren't the kinds of keys you can just cut at a self-service kiosk in the mall, and they will not typically work with other keys.

The easiest method of making an exact copy of a key is to simply visit your local AutoZone and let an associate use a machine that can read the contours of the key, and then match it up to the blank key and cut it for you. It's a simple procedure, and will only take about a couple of minutes to complete. Some locations even have a device that can program the key to your specific model of vehicle.

Other places that could help you with a car key copy include family owned hardware stores as well as big box home improvement stores, and a few chain grocery stores. But it is important to remember that the copies are only good for ignitions and doors and not remote key fobs. It is best to speak with an expert locksmith to duplicate a smart key, or a dealer's chip. These keys should only be made by a professional who has the appropriate tools and equipment.

Replacement

There are a variety of options when you lose your car keys. You can either go to the dealership where the car is sold or to an automotive locksmith. Each option will cost different amounts. It also depends on what kind of key you own. Some keys are simple, double-edged type while others have more intricate.

You can locate the list of locksmiths for cars in your area by conducting an online search. You should find a car locksmith that specializes in auto locksmiths and has an auto division. You can then contact them for a quote on making a new key. Some have mobile units which can travel to your location and create an exact key right there. This is extremely convenient when you have a conventional key that does not have a chip inside it.

Many cars today are equipped with a key fob that is a small electronic device that allows you to lock and unlock your car from the distance. The fob can also be used to start the engine and manage other features of your vehicle. A fob can be very difficult to find. There are ways to stop this from happening, such as keeping a spare fob in your pocket.

The dealership can replace your keys to your car however, they can be expensive. Many dealerships will charge a premium to replace lost key for car your lost keys to your car. This is why many people opt for an automotive locksmith. Some of these firms specialize in replacing keys for cars. This can be a cheaper alternative than going to an auto dealer.

If you have a smart key, you will need to return your car to the dealership to have it replaced. They will have to program the new key to your vehicle. This typically involves closing and opening doors and turning on lights and electronics and off. You will be asked to supply the VIN number for your vehicle as well as a photo ID and any other keys you might have.

It can be a hassle to lose your car keys, but more so when you have a tight schedule. There's no need to panic. Just remember to search thoroughly for your keys, invest in a key-finder tag so that they are easy to find, and consider getting a spare fob so that this situation doesn't occur again.

Finding Help

Sometimes, we are distracted or forgetful and lose our keys to our car. When you drop them in the river when fishing, or leave them in an eatery while you're dining out These types of accidents can be difficult to face. There are ways to keep these types of situations from happening in the future and to reduce the damage if they do occur.

Always keep a spare set of keys in your possession. This can help avoid the frustration of having to retrace your steps or paying for expensive locksmith services. You can also invest in a Bluetooth key-finder tag to aid you in finding your keys. These tags are available online at affordable prices.

For older vehicles that use mechanical keys you can get a new key cut at a variety of hardware stores for a few dollars. However, a lot of cars today use key fobs that have lots of tech integrated into. If you lose these key fobs, they can be expensive to replace.

If you have roadside assistance coverage and the insurance company will pay for a locksmith to come out and create new keys. This could be cheaper than making a new key by a dealer, based on the type of keys you own.

Another option is to contact the car dealership where you purchased your vehicle and inquire if they can assist you in creating an entirely new key. It may cost more than working with a locksmith, but it could also be less stressful to choose a dealership you know.

The final alternative is to have a locksmith deprogram the old key, so that it doesn't work anymore. This can be a very dangerous process, and it's recommended to get a professional to handle this for you. Some locksmiths can complete this without disassembling the key however, it's more common to have a dealership do it for you so that you can guarantee that it's done properly.