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Car Key Lost Replacement Car keys lost can be a real headache. With a little patience and the proper steps, as well as some professional help, you can quickly find an alternative key. Examine your purse, pockets and back seat. Find the nearest authorized dealership of your car manufacturer. Old-School metal keys If you lose your car keys The first thing to do is to contact an locksmith and ask them to make a new set. This is a lot less expensive than buying a new key from the dealer, and will be more secure. You can also make use of an old-fashioned steel blank key, like the keys used on house doors and can be cut at the majority of hardware stores and locksmiths. The locksmith will utilize the key code from the owner's manual for your vehicle to pair the key with the locks and ignition. Another option is to have your vehicle tow back to the dealer to have it changed to a new key. They'll need your vehicle identification number (VIN), which can be found on the driver's side doorpost or in the trunk or on a plate on the driver's side dashboard. They will then pair the new key with the car's computer system to ensure that if you lose it, it won't work. If you have transponder keys and the dealer require reset of the immobiliser to pair it up with the new key. This is a much more complex process and will cost more. The dealer may be able to provide you with a deal for losing a car key, though it's worth calling them to inquire about a price prior to scheduling your appointment. Smart keys are the most expensive car keys to replace, as they don't resemble the traditional keys and operate entirely remotely. They can start your car and start the engine with a press of a button and are more difficult for thieves to duplicate than the older types of car keys. Having a spare car key can save you the cost of replacements that are lost However, not everyone keeps a spare on hand at all times. Consider purchasing a key fob for your car if you are prone to lose things. Fobs Fobs cost a lot more than metal keys and can be integrated into sophisticated vehicle security systems. They are not indestructible either. They can be damaged by extreme temperatures, as well as being thrown and smashed. They may stop working or break at any time. Batteries also need to be replaced on a regular basis. If you've lost your key fob, you'll need to contact a locksmith who specializes in your type of car or dealership. Locksmiths are generally able to duplicate and program key fobs, however, you might need to bring your vehicle's VIN as well (usually found on the dashboard of the driver's side door jamb, or in your owner's manual). It may be possible to save some money if you have a car warranty or roadside assistance plan that covers lost or stolen keys. For cars that are newer or premium brands such as Mercedez you may be able only to get replacement keyfobs from a dealership. This is because the process of preparing the replacement requires technical and security expertise that the manufacturer holds exclusive rights to. Most key fobs are easily replaced and cheaply if you have spare. There are many hardware stores that carry them, and some even specialize in key duplication for automobiles. auto car key replacement can increase the chances of locating your lost item by attaching an AirTag or Tile on it, and then using an app for your smartphone. Check the lost and found of any businesses you visited or the floor you were on. Always try to discover what happened to your old one before you buy an entirely new one. Did it break or fall into cracks? Was it dropped on the street? Did you leave it at an eatery or at the back of taxis? You might be able to return your vehicle if you did. Otherwise, you'll need to get a new one — and pay for towing charges. Smart Keys Keys There are occasions when even the best of us lose sight of our car keys. It could be as simple as placing the keys in the refrigerator while you're enjoying a drink, or it could be something more serious such as forgetting to lock the trunk when loading groceries. It's important to be prepared for any scenario that could arise, such as if your car key is lost. A call to an auto locksmith is the most effective and cheapest alternative. These experts will have all the tools necessary to do the job, and can provide you with a new key within a short time. They'll also be able assist you with other issues with your vehicle, for example, opening a locked door or starting the engine. Another option is to contact your dealer for assistance in particular if you have one that is equipped with a smart key system. This type of key transmits an ultra-low-frequency signal to vehicle's embedded antennas that confirm the driver is close enough to be able to open or start the vehicle. How Stuff Works Electronics reports that it is able to store the settings of each driver for their mirrors, seat and the steering wheel. These systems are vulnerable to hackers who could detect the signal. This could result in your car being taken away or, even worse, being used as an excuse to drive away. Some models, like Mercedes-Benz smart key, utilize different frequencies to avoid this. One final alternative is to contact an emergency roadside assistance company or your insurance provider for your car. They may be able to provide a replacement key in the event that you're covered under their conditions and terms. However, these services can be costly and take some time to arrive. In addition to being a convenient and efficient method to ensure you don't lose your car keys, this kind of key can also be an excellent way to keep an extra key in case of emergency situations. You never know when you will require a ride to or from the grocery store, so having a spare key can give you peace-of-mind if you're out and about. Transponder Keys If your car was built in the past 20 years or then, there's a good chance it comes with a transponder key in it. This anti-theft device is called a “chip” key. It makes it difficult to connect a vehicle's hot wire. These keys send a signal to the computer system in your vehicle when you insert it in the ignition, if it recognizes the signal it will start the engine. This protects your expensive ride or trusty family rig from being stolen and ensures that only you is driving it. The keys are more expensive than a standard non-transponder type but the added security is well worth the cost. Contact your local locksmith in case you lose the transponder keys. They have the equipment to replace keys for nearly any vehicle, and generally charge less than the dealership. If you decide to go through a dealer, you'll need to bring along your old key fob so that they can get you a new one. This can take several days and cost a lot of dollars. Another option is to get an extra key cut by locksmiths. They can copy all types of keys, and even a switchblade key (which comes with a built-in lock) but they cannot program it to your vehicle. This might work if don't have any other spares but isn't ideal. The last option is to call your car dealership and ask them to order an updated transponder chip/key fob to be fitted to your vehicle. It usually takes a few days and it's likely to be the most expensive option of all. Lost car keys can be a pain but they don't have to be as a problem as they seem. With the assistance of an expert, you can get back on the road in the shortest time possible and ensure your car is secure from thieves. Make sure you have a spare key in your bag or pocket, and always be mindful of where you are when driving!