Replacing Lost Car Keys to a Car
It can cause a lot of stress (and even your evening) when you lose your car keys. It's not always as bad as it sounds.
If you have the original key, or can prove ownership of your vehicle by showing a valid registration or title, you can replace the key easily and cheaply.
Get a new key made
It's never a good idea to lose your car keys. You may feel agitated and stressed. You may also be unable to reach your destination in time. There are ways to avoid this problem. Contact a locksmith and have a new one made. They can cut you the new key. The cost will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
The most basic key is a traditional car key. The key made of metal is used to start the car. You can easily duplicate the key by using a locksmith or hardware shop make it. If you own an older car, you may need to visit your dealer or car manufacturer to purchase the replacement key.
You'll need to have your vehicle reprogrammed if are using an advanced key such as a smart key or remote key. This can be expensive and could take a few hours. You will need to bring an original copy of your registration or title, which shows proof that you own the car. The dealer will then program the new key to work with your vehicle.
It is recommended to have a spare car key in case of loss. You can always be prepared with a spare key. If you lose a car key, make sure you search for it carefully and store it in a safe place so that it won't be stolen.
Car keys lost or misplaced was not a major issue in the past, since most people carried a second set of keys on them. The cost of replacing keys for cars has risen as cars have become more technologically advanced. You can expect to pay hundreds of dollars or more, depending on the model and brand of your vehicle.
To save money, consider finding an auto locksmith in your area. You can purchase an alternative key from them and avoid having to purchase one from the dealer. You should also look through the owner's manual of your vehicle to locate the VIN number, which is used to identify the model and year of your car. The VIN number is typically located on the driver's dashboard, or it might be written on a label on the inside of the windshield. You will need this number to purchase new keys. You can look for it on the engine block on the trunk lid, or in the door frame. You can also locate the number on your registration or insurance card. In some instances, you might be able to find it by pressing the buttons on your key or by contacting the automaker.
Find a new key that has been programmed
If you've ever lost your car keys, then you know how important it is to obtain a replacement quickly. You should also make sure the new key has been set up correctly to prevent anyone else from using your car. If you need a new car key, you must visit an automotive locksmith or dealer. However, there are some things you can do yourself.
There's no guarantee that you will not lose your car keys, however it is essential to have a spare in your possession. You can purchase the key fob from most hardware stores and most auto parts chains. They're typically key fobs that have an internal microchip. They can be paired with your vehicle's ignition. They are offered for the majority of types and makes of vehicles however, you must consult your owner's manual for specific instructions.
You should also consider buying a Bluetooth key tracker to help you locate your car keys in case you lose them. replacing lost car keys attach to your keychain and emit an electronic signal that can then be tracked by your smartphone. They can be helpful in the event you lose your keys in the grocery store or when you forget where you put them. You can then open your app and see where your keys have been placed.
A professional locksmith, or dealer will have a device that can program a key for your vehicle. This is a lengthy procedure that should only be done by a professional. If you try to do it yourself, you may end up damaging the electronics of your car.
Some car manufacturers use technology that requires dealerships to make an entirely new key. This is to deter thieves from using stolen keys to gain access to your car. In these instances you'll need to call the dealer to get a replacement key.
It is possible to program a new key yourself in some vehicles. You'll need to find the vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It is found on all documents related to your vehicle. It's usually printed on the title and registration, but it could also be found on your insurance card.
Once you have your VIN you can use it to find out the key programming code. You'll need a second working key to do this. Insert the first key in the ignition and then insert the second key. You'll need to do this quickly, because you only have just a few seconds left to complete the procedure. When the security light goes off, you'll know that the key was successfully programmed.
It is important to remember that you should not attempt to reprogram your vehicle key if it's been reported as stolen or lost. This is a serious offence that could result in fines and other penalties.
Find a new key cut
The loss of your keys to your car was a major issue, and it still could be if you own one of those newer cars with key fobs that come with a variety of features built in. They're more difficult to use than traditional keys and make it almost impossible for anyone else to start your car when you're not present. This is why you should keep a spare key and a way to locate it like a gimmicky key chain or lanyard, to make it less likely you'll lose yours.
When you lose your key it could be replaced at a dealership or an automotive locksmith dependent on the type of key it is. The traditional kind is a key made of steel that is inserted into the cylinder of ignition in order to start your car. If you have this kind of key, you'll be able to find a replacement at the hardware store or locksmith, and it's fairly inexpensive to get one.
A lot of newer vehicles are equipped with transponder chips, which make it difficult to copy or duplicate a key. To replace the car key that was lost with transponder chips it is necessary to visit the dealership where you bought your car and show proof of ownership, like the registration or title. They'll then pair the new key with your vehicle, and the new key will work just like your original once it's programmed.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key you can usually have an entirely new one made by an area locksmith for less than $50. If your key has transponder technology, you will have to take it to the dealer to have it re-paired with your vehicle. This could cost you up to $200.
If you're in a hurry you can also visit an Ace Hardware store and have a new key made for about 50% less than the price you'd spend at the dealership. You'll need both a working key and a blank key to have it duplicated. A skilled associate will draw the contours of your key and cut it in-house using a precise machine. Then, they'll program your new key to your car, a process that can take a few minutes or longer, depending on the model and brand of your car.