How to Find a Car Key Lost Car keys are a big deal when they get lost. Replacing keys can cost several hundred dollars, based on the kind of key and what features are included. You can typically find an alternative to traditional keys made of metal from an hardware store or a locksmith. You'll require your vehicle identification number (VIN), and then visit a dealer for an alternative smart key and get it paired with your car. Identifying your keys The most stressful thing that can happen to any driver is the loss of their car keys. When you reach into your bag or pocket and can't find them, it can be difficult to figure out what to do. To locate your keys, it is best to remain in a calm state and follow a step by step approach. Begin by identifying the type of car key you have. You can get a copy of a mechanical key that only opens the locks from a locksmith at a reasonable price in the event that you own one. You can also get a replacement at the dealership however, they tend to be more expensive. Most newer cars use a smart key that triggers an internal sensor to allow keyless entry and ignition. These keys are more difficult to lose, as they have a built-in feature that keeps track where the key is. Keep your smart keys close at your side or you could be unable to locate it. You should first check your regular places of hiding first before moving on to other areas. Check in your coat pockets, in the shoes you're wearing and in any bags you've had on you throughout the day. You can also retrace your steps and walk back through the day to see the key you've lost. 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 can offer you a replacement. If you have a car that does not have transponder chips, you can have a basic copy made at Home Depot. It's always a good idea to have an extra key in your bag, even when you don't lose keys often. It's possible to accomplish this in a variety of different ways one of which is to give an additional key to a family member or trusted friend. You can also buy a Bluetooth tracker to connect to your keys. The app will tell you where they are at any time. Making copies It's easy to misplace a key, which is an essential part of your vehicle. Many car owners are in situations where they lose their keys or have them stop working at the worst possible time. Losing your keys is frustrating and annoying, whether it's at the pump, loading groceries into the trunk, or after a hard day at work. The good news is that if have an additional key, it could help you in these instances. If you don't have an additional key it is possible to easily and inexpensively make duplicate keys at many hardware stores or locksmiths. It's also a good idea to keep an extra key in your wallet, just in case! Many people believe that they must go to a dealer in order to purchase a new car key. This isn't always the situation. It is contingent on the kind of key you have, and how complex it is. Modern cars have keys that are more than just metal blades. They also have chips that must be programmed to start the car. These are not the kind of keys you can just cut at a self-service kiosk in the mall, and they will not be compatible with any other key. To make a copy of the key, visit your local AutoZone. A representative will utilize a machine examine the contours of the key. They will then match it up with the blank key. This is a very simple process, and it takes only about a couple of minutes to complete. Some places have a device that can program your key to fit the car model you have. You can also get copies of your car key from family-owned hardware stores, large chain of home improvement stores and even some grocery stores. It is important to remember that these copies are only good for doors and ignitions not remote key fobs. It's a good idea to contact a locksmith to duplicate the smart key or dealer chip key, since they are only copied by a professional who has the proper equipment and tools. Getting an Exchange You have a few options if you lose your car keys. You can either go to the dealer which sells your car or visit an automotive locksmith. Each option will cost a different amount. It is also contingent on the kind of key you own. Some cars have a simple double-edged car key, while others are more complex. Online searches can help you find car locksmiths near you. Choose a locksmith that specializes in vehicles and preferably has an auto division. You can then contact them to inquire about a price for the production of a brand new key. Some companies have a mobile unit which can make keys at your location. This is extremely convenient if you have a traditional key that does not have a chip inside it. A lot of cars come with keys fobs, which are a small electronic gadget that lets you to lock and unlock your vehicle from a distance. The fob can also be used to start your engine and control other functions in your car. A fob can be easily lost. There are ways to avoid this from happening, for instance by keeping a spare in your pocket. The dealership can replace your car keys for you However, they could be costly. Some dealerships charge a fee for replacing your lost car key s. This is the reason why many people opt for an automotive locksmith. Some of these companies specialize in the replacement of keys for cars, which can be a much cheaper option than going to the dealer. You'll need to bring your car to a dealer to have it replaced in the event that you have an electronic key. The dealer will need to program the new key. This typically involves opening and closing doors, and/or switching electronics and lights on and off. You will need to provide the VIN number for your vehicle along with a photo ID as well as the other set of keys you carry with you. The loss of a car keys is always a hassle however, it can be even more so when you are in a hurry and you need to get somewhere. There's no need to be worried. Make sure you look for your keys in a thorough manner, to get an identification label for your keys to make them easier to find and to consider buying an extra fob to prevent this happening again. Assistance Sometimes, we're distracted or forgetful and end up losing our car keys. These accidents can be frustrating in the event that you drop them in a river when fishing, or leave them in an eatery while eating. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent these situations from occurring in the future and minimize the damage when they do occur. Always keep an extra set of keys in your possession. This will save you the trouble of having to go back to your steps or pay for expensive locksmith services. You can also purchase a Bluetooth key-finder tag that can aid you in finding your keys. These tags are available online for an affordable price. For older vehicles that have keys that are mechanical, it's possible to have a new key cut at a variety of hardware stores for only a couple of dollars. However, many cars today use key fobs that have a lot of technology integrated into. They can be costly to replace in the event of losing them. If you have roadside protection and your insurance company is able to hire a locksmith to make a copy. Based on the type of key you own it could be cheaper than the cost of creating a new key at a dealership. Another option is to call the dealership where you purchased your car to see if they can help you in creating the new key. This can be more expensive than working with a locksmith, however it is also less stressful to deal with a dealer you are familiar with. The final alternative is to hire locksmiths deprogram the old key so that it is no longer working. This is a dangerous process, and it's best to have a professional do this for you. Some locksmiths are able do this without taking off the key, however it's generally better to let a dealership do it to make certain it's done right.
lost car key
