The loss of car keys can be a real headache. With a bit of patience and the right steps as well as some professional help you can easily find a new key.
Check your purse, pockets and back seat. Then, find the nearest authorized dealer of your vehicle's manufacturer.
Metal Keys from the Old School
If you lose your car keys, the first thing you'll want to do is find locksmiths to come out and make a new one. This is much less expensive than purchasing it from the dealership, and your vehicle is likely to be safer by using this method.
You can also make use of an iron blank key that is similar to keys for doors to houses. These keys are cut by a majority of hardware stores and locksmiths. The locksmith will then utilize the key code found in the owner's manual to connect the new key to the ignition and locks of your vehicle.
Another alternative is to get your vehicle towed 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 doorpost for the driver's side, in the trunk, or stamped on a plate on the driver's side dashboard. They will combine the new key with your vehicle's computer system to ensure that if you lose it again it will not function.
If you have transponder keys the dealer will have to reset the immobiliser to pair it up with an entirely new key. This is a much more complex process and will cost more. The dealer may be able to make an offer to replace a car key, though, so it's worth contacting them to get a quote prior to making an appointment.
Smart keys can be expensive to replace since they look nothing like a traditional car key and can be operated remotely. They can start your car and start the engine with a press of a button, and they are much harder for thieves to duplicate than earlier types of car key fob replacement near me keys.
The possession of a spare car key can save you the cost of lost replacements however not everyone has spare keys on hand at all times. If you're the kind of person who is prone to misplace things, consider purchasing a key fob for your vehicle so you don't have to fret for it in the event that it goes missing.
Fobs
Fobs are more expensive than old metal keys, and can be integrated into sophisticated vehicle-security systems. They're also not indestructible. Like any consumer tech that spends a significant amount of time in pockets of people's they're susceptible to being dropped, banged, and exposed to extreme temperatures. They could fail or break at any point. They also have batteries that require to be replaced periodically however, they aren't able to last forever.
If you lose your car key you'll need to locate a locksmith or a dealership that is specialized in your kind of vehicle. Most locksmiths can duplicate keys and program them, but you may need to bring your vehicle's VIN number 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 cash in the event that you have a vehicle warranty or roadside assistance coverage plan that covers lost or stolen keys.
In the case of more recent vehicles and premium brands, such as Mercedez and Mercedes-Benz, you might only be able get replacement car keys price keys from the dealership. This is because the process of preparing an upgrade requires a certain level of technical and security knowledge that the manufacturer has exclusive rights to.
Most key fobs can be replaced easily and inexpensively if you own spare. Many hardware stores sell them, and others specialize in replicating keys for cars.
You can increase the chances of locating your lost item by attaching an AirTag or Tile on it and then using an app on your smartphone. Follow your steps back to when you last remember having it, and then check the lost and found of any businesses or floors you visited.
You should always try and discover what has happened to your old device before you purchase an entirely new one. Did it fall into cracks? Was it left on the street? Did you leave it at an eatery or at the back of taxis? You might be able to retrieve your vehicle if you did. You'll need to purchase another vehicle and pay for towing fees if you do not.
Smart Keys
Even the most diligent of us can lose keys to our cars. It could be as innocuous as placing them in the fridge while grabbing an alcoholic beverage, or as serious as forgetting to lock them in the trunk when loading groceries. No matter what the scenario, it's important to know the options available in order to ensure you're prepared should you find yourself needing an alternative replacement car keys price for a car key.
The first option, and the most affordable is to contact an auto locksmith. They'll have all the tools required to do the job, and can provide you with a replacement key within a short time. They'll also be able to help you with any other issues with your vehicle, such as opening a locked door or starting the engine.
Another option is to contact your dealer for assistance, especially if you have a model that uses a smart key system. This kind of key sends an low-frequency signal to the vehicle's embedded antennas that confirm the driver is near enough to be able to open or start the vehicle. It can even store the individual settings of the driver for the seat mirrors, seat wheel's position, according to How Stuff Works Electronics.
These systems are susceptible to hackers who could detect the signal. This could result in your vehicle being stolen, or even worse, being used as a remote car key replacement control to drive away in. Luckily, certain models, such as Mercedes-Benz smart keys, use different frequencies to stop this from occurring.
One final alternative is to contact an emergency roadside assistance company or your insurance company for your vehicle. They may be able to offer a replacement key if you're covered under their terms and conditions. These services can be costly and take an extended time to arrive.
This type of key is an excellent way to have a spare in the event in the event of an emergency. You never know when you'll require an Uber to get home from the grocery store and having a spare will provide you with peace of mind if you're on the move.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are common in vehicles built within the last 20 years. Also called a "chip key" this is an anti-theft device that makes it difficult to hot wire your vehicle. The keys transmit an alert to your vehicle's computer system when you insert them into the ignition. If it detects the signal, it will start the engine. This protects your expensive vehicle or beloved family vehicle from theft and lets you know that no one but you is driving it. Although these keys are more expensive to replace than a standard non-transponder key but the additional security is worth it for many.
If you lose your transponder key The best solution is to contact your local locksmith. These professionals have the equipment to replace keys for nearly any vehicle, and they typically charge less than the dealership.
If you decide to purchase from a dealership, you will have to bring along your old key fob so they can purchase an alternative. This could take a couple of days and cost you a fair amount of money.
A locksmith can cut keys for you to use as spare keys. They can cut all keys and even duplicate a key type that is a switchblade (which has a built-in lock) however they won't be able to program it for your vehicle. This is a great option if you have no other spares however it's not the best option.
The last alternative is to contact the dealership directly and ask them to purchase an additional key fob/transponder key for your vehicle. It usually takes several days, and it's going to be the most expensive option of all.
Car keys that are lost are a hassle however, they don't need to be as a problem as they seem. With the help of an expert, you can return to your vehicle as quickly as you can and ensure that your vehicle is secure from thieves. Be sure to keep a spare key in your purse or pocket and be aware of where you are driving!
Check your purse, pockets and back seat. Then, find the nearest authorized dealer of your vehicle's manufacturer.
