20 Myths About Replace A Lost Car Key: Busted How to Replace a Lost Car Key

The loss of your car keys can be a huge trouble. Usually, the best option is calling your local locksmith or dealer. They will require evidence of ownership as well as the key from before in order to create a new key.

However, this is not always the cheapest method to take.

lost my car key were once the most commonly used. They have grooves that fit into slots within the ignition. The key is put into the cylinder for ignition and turned to start the car. If you have lost a traditional key it is less expensive than other keys to obtain a replacement.

You can get a traditional key made by an automotive locksmith while you wait. They'll need to know the make and model of your car along with the year it was manufactured. The locksmith might also require proof of ownership to confirm your rights to purchase keys.

Transponder keys are more common in newer vehicles. They're a bit more expensive to replace than traditional keys, but they're more safe from theft. The head of the plastic transponder key has an electronic chip which communicates with the computer system inside your vehicle to ensure that it is only initiated by the correct key.

When a car is sold, the chips inside transponder keys will be programmed using a code. Some have rolling codes, that send an additional code each time the key is used. This makes it more difficult for thieves to copy the key. You should always store your transponder keys in a safe place if you own an advanced vehicle equipped with.

Transponder keys last longer than standard metal keys, however they are more expensive to replace in the event of a loss. You'll have to contact your dealer for an alternative transponder key in the event that you lose one. You'll need to supply your VIN (a 17-digit number) which tells the dealer which car it is compatible with.

You'll also need to provide the serial number of your vehicle. The serial number is located on a label on the driver's side door, or a card in your owner's manual. It is essential to have these numbers on hand as they can help you locate your car if it gets stolen or lost.

Transponder Keys

Your key could contain an electronic transponder if the car was built within the last 20 years. These tiny pieces of technology are programmed to your particular car, meaning only you are able to start it. Your transmission will be locked on your car when it determines that the key does not match the code. This is to ensure that only the owner can start the vehicle.

They are a fantastic feature for your vehicle as they discourage car theft. Hot wiring is a method that thieves have employed to start cars. When cars began to use transponder chip technology and transponder chips, it became much more difficult to steal your car since the criminal needed the right key to transmit the signal needed to start the vehicle.

If you own traditional car keys and you lose it, you can get a new one cut right on the spot by a locksmith local to you. The old key will be removed from the system of your vehicle. On the other side, if you own an electronic transponder or fob key, you will need to go to the dealership to get it replaced. This is because the dealer must know your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) in order to purchase the correct key for your specific vehicle.

This is because they will need to ensure that the key they're requesting for you is paired with your particular vehicle to be able to start it and open your doors. To obtain an alternative key, you'll need to prove ownership such as your registration or title. This can make this type of replacement slightly more expensive however in the end, it's worth it when you consider that your vehicle's key could have been stolen. If you're worried about the cost, check whether your insurance or warranty will cover the cost. If not, you'll need to take your car to the dealer to have it towed and get the key from the manufacturer.

Fob Keys

The most recent type of car keys are designed to function as remotes, allowing drivers to open the doors and start the engine without having to insert a traditional key into the ignition. These keys are also referred to as keys that do not require keyless entry or remote control keys and are generally less expensive to replace than older, more traditional varieties. They're not completely safe, but neither are any other consumer electronics. They are also easily lost and stop working as they move around in your bag or pocket.

Fobs emit an electronic code that enables the driver to unlock and start the vehicle. When the fob is placed on an inside sensor the code is read and the doors are opened and the engine starts. Certain fobs come with additional features, for instance, a button that summons the car (similar to the Tesla summon feature).


If you lose your key fob check to make sure your keys aren't in a purse or bag that is secured. If they're not there, go through your day and consider where you may have lost the keys. You can also look in your pockets, bags you might have, or on surfaces like counters and other surfaces. You may be able find your keys in a place where you dropped them, or put them down briefly when you went to pick something up.

You can purchase replacement key fobs on the internet, but they have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Some, like those used by Audi and Subaru will require a trip to the dealership to get them reprogrammed to match your particular key. Good news! Roadside assistance companies like AAA can help you with this.

If you do decide to purchase a new key fob, comparison shop. Some retailers will cut and program a fob that was purchased elsewhere for less than they would charge to perform the same job at the dealer. It is also possible to replace the outer shells of some fobs that are key with the electronics in working condition. Check your auto club membership or insurance policy to determine if this is covered.

Keys that are chipped Keys

In the past few years, automobiles have become increasingly advanced in terms of technology. This has resulted in more sophisticated keys. Unlike traditional keys, which could be copied at a locksmith, these newer keys require a specially-designed machine to duplicate. This means it will be more expensive to replace lost car keys when they are equipped with a chip inside them.

If you lose your transponder chip or it is stolen from you, then you will need to contact the local dealer to obtain an alternative. This is because they keep a record of the security information in their system and can match an updated chip with your vehicle with no hassle. The process could take a few more days due to the dealer having to order the key directly from the manufacturer.

The good thing is that it's possible to have a duplicate of your transponder chip by a professional locksmith. It's a bit more difficult than taking your vehicle to a dealership however, you'll save money in the end. You'll need your vehicle's VIN number to get a duplicate. This number can be found on your insurance policy or on the sticker in the driver's door jamb.

You'll also require an exact copy of your old key to bring to the locksmith. The locksmith will then be able to match the key cuts. If you can't locate the key you used to have look in the trunk or in other places. Examine your bags and pockets. You don't know if you put your keys down somewhere or if you knocked them out of your bag while you were reaching for something else.

You must immediately begin looking for your car keys if you are unable to find them. First, make sure that you haven't left them at home or at the office. After that, take a look over your day to determine if they may be missing. After you've checked your bags and emptied your pockets, it's time to use advanced search techniques.