Car Key Lost Replacement The loss of car keys can be a real headache. If you're patient and follow the proper steps, as well as some professional help you can easily obtain a replacement key. Check your pockets, purse and the back seat. Next, find the nearest authorised dealership of your car's manufacturer. Old-School Metal Keys If you lose your car keys the first thing you should do is to contact an locksmith and ask them to create new keys. This is a lot cheaper than getting it from the dealership, and your car will probably be more secure by using this method. You can also make use of a blank key made of metal that is similar to the keys used to open doors for houses. These keys can be cut by most hardware stores and locksmiths. The locksmith can then use a key code from the owner's manual to connect the new key to the ignition and locks of your vehicle. Another alternative is to get your vehicle tow back to the dealer in order to have it re-keyed. They'll need your vehicle identification number (VIN) which you can find on the driver's side doorpost or in the trunk or stamped on a plate on the dashboard of the driver's side. They will combine the new key with your vehicle's computer system to ensure that, if you lose it it will not work. The dealer will have to reset the immobiliser if you own an transponder. This is a more complicated procedure and will cost you more. It is possible to get a discount from a dealer if you lose the car keys. It is worth asking for a price. Smart keys are expensive to replace as they appear unlike a traditional car key and can be operated remotely. They can start your car and start the engine with just one touch and are harder for thieves to duplicate than older kinds of keys for cars. The possession of a spare car key can save you the cost of replacements that are lost, but not every person has spare keys on hand at all times. Consider getting a keyfob for your car if you are prone to lose things. Fobs Fobs are a lot more expensive than traditional metal keys and are incorporated into sophisticated security systems for vehicles. They are not indestructible either. Like any consumer tech that spends a lot of time in people's pockets they are susceptible to being damaged, dropped, or exposed to extreme temperatures. This means that they can break or stop working at the drop of a hat. They also have batteries that need to be replaced periodically, but they don't last forever. If you lose your car fob You'll need to locate an authorized locksmith or a dealer that is specialized in your type of vehicle. Locksmiths are generally able to duplicate keys and program them, but you may need to bring your VIN number in addition (usually located on the dashboard of the driver's side door jamb or in the owner's manual). It may be possible to save some cash if you have a car warranty or roadside assistance coverage plan which covers stolen or lost keys. For newer cars or high-end brands like Mercedez you may be able to obtain key fobs replacement from the dealership. This is because the manufacturer has exclusive rights for technical and security expertise. Thankfully, most key fobs are fairly cheap and simple to replace provided you have a suitable spare. Many hardware stores carry key fobs, and some specialize in key duplication for automotive keys. You can increase your chances of locating your lost item by putting an AirTag or Tile on it, and then using an app for your smartphone. Take a step back from when you last remembered having it, and check the lost-and-found of any businesses or floors you went to. Before you buy an additional one it is advisable to try to figure out what happened to the previous one. Did it fall in a crack? Was it dropped on the street? You may be able retrieve it if you left it in a restaurant or the back of a cab. If yes, you might be able to get it back. If not, you'll have to buy a new oneand pay towing costs. Smart Keys Even the most diligent of us may lose keys to our cars. It could be something like putting keys in the refrigerator while you're enjoying drinks or something more serious like forgetting to lock the trunk when loading groceries. No matter what the situation is, it's essential to know the options available to ensure you're ready should you ever have to get a car key lost replacement. A call to an auto locksmith is the first and cheapest option. They usually have all of the equipment needed to complete the task and will be able to provide you with a new key in a fairly short amount of time. They'll also be able help you with any other issues with your vehicle, for example, opening an unlocked door or launching the engine. Contacting your dealer for assistance is another option, especially if your model uses smart-key systems. This type of key transmits an low-frequency signal to the antennas that are embedded into the vehicle to verify that the driver is close to unlocking or starting the car. It can even store individual driver settings for seat mirrors, seat, and steering wheel position, reports How Stuff Works Electronics. These systems are vulnerable to hackers who could take over the signal. This could lead to your car being stolen or, worse yet, used as an excuse to drive away. Fortunately, some models, such as Mercedes-Benz smart keys, use different frequencies to prevent this from occurring. One last alternative is to call an emergency roadside assistance service or your insurance provider for your car. If you're covered under their terms and conditions, they could be able to offer a replacement. However they could be expensive and take some time to arrive. In addition to being a convenient and effective method of avoiding losing your car keys, this type of key can also be an excellent way to have an extra one in case of emergencies. You never know when you'll need to get an Uber to get home from the grocery store and having a spare can give you peace of head in case you're traveling. Transponder Keys Transponder keys are common in cars built in the past 20 years. This anti-theft device is also called a "chip" key. It makes it extremely difficult to wire a vehicle hot. These keys send a message to the computer system in your vehicle whenever you insert them in the ignition. If the computer system recognizes the signals, it will begin to start the car. This will protect your family vehicle or luxury vehicle from being stolen, and you'll be able to know that you're the only person driving it. Although these kinds of keys are more expensive to replace than a basic non-transponder key but the extra security is worth the cost for many. Contact your local locksmith in case you've lost your transponder keys. These professionals have the equipment to replace keys for nearly any vehicle, and they generally charge less than a dealership. If you decide to go with a dealer you'll have to bring your old key fob with you so they can get a new one ordered for you. This could take several days and cost a lot of money. A locksmith can also cut an extra key. They are able to cut most keys and can duplicate a switchblade type key (which includes a built in lock) but they won't be able to program it for your car. This may work if you don't have any spares, but it's not ideal. The last option is to call the car dealership directly and request that they order you a new key fob/transponder chip key for your car. This usually takes some time and it's likely to be the most expensive option of all. Car keys lost are a hassle but they don't have to be as difficult as they seem. You can get back on the road with the help of a professional. They can also keep your car safe from thieves. Keep the spare car keys in your bag or pocket and be aware of where you are when driving.