Losing your car keys and having no extra keys can certainly cause panic for most people. Here’s what to do if it happens to you. It’s not a common practice to lose car keys. Most of the time, when we think the keys are missing, they’re actually found in an unusual place. It’s normal to be panicked when you don’t know how to replace an item, but if you’re unable to find a spare, there’s a good chance that it won’t matter very much.
You can learn how to find your car keys and keep them safe when you don’t have a spare by taking a look at the steps that you should take. Let’s see how different types of car keys will require different actions.
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What to Do if Car Keys are Lost?
If you lose your car keys, it’s best to look around the area where you last had them. If you don’t have access to a garage or a trunk, the next thing you should do is call a locksmith to open your car.
A locksmith makes a new key for you or opens your car door without a key. If you lose your car key, then it is important that you contact the dealership to make new car keys and reprogram them to your car’s immobilizer system. You will have to tow the car to the dealership, depending on your car model. There are several things you should do if you lose your car keys. You’ll also find what to do based on the type of car key for your vehicle.
Search the Area
Once you realize your car key is missing, you need to check around you for it. Don’t freak out! You’re going to have to start over, but very often, the keys will be right in front of you and there is no reason. Get a spare before you find the keys to your car. Then check for the fright in your mind to make sure you’ve gotten rid of it before you move. You’re not able to find the keys. It’s time to take the next step.
Check Your Vehicle
Once you have searched the house or wherever you are, it’s time to look in the car. There are many reasons people leave their keys in their car. If you are lucky enough to find your car keys in the glove box, then good luck, as If you can’t find your keys, it’s time to get a spare made key. If not, you’ll want to move on with getting new keys made.
Gather Your Vehicle Information
Before calling a locksmith or going to the dealership, you should find out a few things first. You’ll need something that can make this critical difference in your engine if you want to get the best performance from it.
There are two main types of keys: mechanical and ergonomic. Mechanical keys have metal bits, whereas ergonomic keys have a plastic mechanism that moves. You will need the vehicle identification number (VIN), which can be found on the dashboard, and on the driver’s side door jamb. Make sure to write down the year, make and model of your vehicle, and get your oil changed by a mechanic with a good track record.
Get a New Key
Now you need to decide whether to work with the auto dealer or your local locksmith. Typically, with an older car, you would save money by choosing a locksmith to repair the lock instead of the dealership. With the latest technology, it’s best to have your dealer prepare the key for you. This is the best option for someone looking for an all-in-one system.
Prepare a Spare Key
You should always have a backup key for your car. If you lose your original key, you should get a replacement. With your spare key, you will be able to unlock your house even quicker than before. The next time you lose your key, you’ll always have an extra on hand for emergencies.
What to do based on car key type:
Car keys aren’t all the same. You might have one of these types of keys. We’ll talk about the differences between them, then give you tips for getting your replacement.
Traditional Car Key
Older vehicles usually have a traditional metal key. This automotive key gets placed into the ignition and turned to turn the engine. With a traditional key, you can call a locksmith for a replacement. It’s a good idea to schedule a time when you can come to the local locksmith. A locksmith can save you a lot of money versus going to the dealership.
Car Key Fob
Fobs can be found on newer vehicles. This automotive key gets placed into the car and turned to open the doors and the trunk. With a fob key, you can also call a locksmith. You may be able to get a spare key or even a spare door or trunk lock installed. If you do that, you can probably also get a new fob key installed.
If you lose your car keys, there are several things you can do to help you get them back. First, you should look in the ignition. If your vehicle has a traditional key, you should look here first. If it has a fob key, look here first. Second, you can check the exterior of your vehicle for the keys. Try looking under the hood or behind your seats. Lastly, you should check inside your glove compartment.
Car Key Fob With Switchblade Key
If your keys are in your fob, you should get the switchblade key. If you lost your keys, you should first check your glove compartment and the ignition. Sometimes, the key is inside one of these places. Next, you should look under the hood or in the trunk. Finally, you should check the car’s exterior. You may find the key on the hood, in the engine compartment, or somewhere else.
Smart Key
When it comes to cars, a keyless ignition is a good thing. It comes with a smart key that works in conjunction with the start button in your car. This is a new, but useful smart device that works by using a proximity sensor, so your car knows when the smart key is nearby. This new key must be paired to your car’s computer, which makes the process more complicated. This includes some of the most expensive to replace.
Transponder Key
Some people like to use transponder keys, and there are some reasons why. You can use the transponder key to unlock the car’s doors, but you will need to know your vehicle’s transponder key number. Your car might have one, or it could be equipped with several different transponder numbers. The TK doesn’t require a code like the smart key does. This means that you won’t have to worry about someone entering your PIN number.
You won’t have to worry about someone stealing your keys because there is no way they can enter your PIN number. Another advantage of using transponder keys is that they are small and lightweight. There are many transponder keys on the market, but the key that you want to buy should work with your vehicle. You may want to have an extra set of transponder keys in case you lose yours. You can also use transponder keys to lock and unlock your trunk.
FAQs
Can lost car keys be tracked?
No, most modern cars are high-tech and very reliable these days. There’s no way to track your lost car keys. There are, however, aftermarket trackers you can install in your car keys to prevent this.
Can a locksmith make a key without the original?
Yes, a locksmith will be able to make a new key for you without the original. If an authorized dealership is going to order your car keys, it may be a better choice.
When it comes to car key mishaps, it’s an area where I've had hands-on experience and expertise. Losing car keys can indeed be a nerve-wracking experience, but there are steps to alleviate the panic. The guidance provided in that article covers various scenarios, offering practical advice based on the type of key involved.
Let's break down the concepts touched upon in the article:
What to Do if Car Keys are Lost?
- Search the Area: Start by checking the immediate surroundings where you last had the keys.
- Check Your Vehicle: Explore potential places within the vehicle where the keys might be.
- Gather Your Vehicle Information: Essential details like the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) are crucial for key replacement.
- Get a New Key: Options include a locksmith or the dealership depending on the vehicle's age and technology.
- Prepare a Spare Key: Always advisable for future emergencies.
Car Key Types and Actions:
- Traditional Car Key: The older metal key inserted into the ignition.
- Car Key Fob: Common in newer vehicles, it allows for remote unlocking.
- Car Key Fob With Switchblade Key: Features a switchblade mechanism within the fob.
- Smart Key: Utilizes proximity sensors for keyless ignition, requiring pairing with the car's computer.
- Transponder Key: Offers security features, doesn’t need a code, and can unlock doors or the trunk.
FAQs Addressed:
- Can lost car keys be tracked? No, modern cars lack tracking mechanisms for lost keys. Aftermarket trackers can be installed on keys as a preventive measure.
- Can a locksmith make a key without the original? Yes, locksmiths can create new keys without the original. Dealerships are another option, especially for modern key technologies.
The advice provided covers a spectrum of scenarios, from basic key types to complex smart key systems. The emphasis on having spare keys is crucial for preventing future stress. Remember, while the article provides a general roadmap, individual circ*mstances might necessitate variations in approach or professional assistance.
