Ask Me Anything: 10 Responses To Your Questions About Auto Key Repair Auto Key Repair Near Me

It's difficult to know when you'll lose your car keys. And when it happens it's usually at the most un-cooperative time.

You could contact your dealer and ask them to give you a new key, but they charge huge amounts of money. They may not have the key you need in stock.

Lost Keys

Not too long in the past, losing or misplacing the car key was not a huge issue. Locksmiths could quickly and affordably replace it. But as cars have gotten more technologically advanced, so have their keys, and changing one could be a costly endeavor. Depending on the type of key you have, the process for regaining access to your vehicle may be a lengthy process that could cost hundreds of dollars, according Richard Reina, training director at CARiD.

Lost car keys happen for a variety of reasons, but mostly they occur when you're in hurry or distracted and don't check where you put your keys. This is why having a backup in an appropriate location is crucial, and why it's crucial to retrace your steps in case you lose keys.

Start by thinking back to the last time you used them, then look through every possible place where you could have placed them. Look in your pocket or on the floor of your car (including the trunk) or on your desk at work, or anywhere you might have been sitting, like a restaurant table at lunchtime or while waiting for an Uber-like service to take you to the airport.

Also, consider whether you gave an additional key to someone. If you did, get in touch with the person to inquire whether your key has been found. Be sure to search your home, since keys are often hidden underneath couches or on top of mail stacks.

If you're unable to locate your keys, you need to determine what kind of key you own. You can then call someone to get it replaced. You may need to go to the dealer to purchase a new key particularly if it comes with a transponder or some other technology which needs to be changed.

If you have a traditional key locksmiths are able to cut you a new one immediately. In the majority of cases, you'll need to bring the registration or title of your vehicle or any other evidence of ownership to the dealer. You'll need an ID photo along with any spare keys that you may have.

Transponder Keys

It's almost certain that the car key is equipped with a transponder. These chips help stop car thefts by making sure that only the owner of the vehicle can start it. They function by transmitting a signal via the key to an antenna ring close to the ignition cylinder. The computer inside your car will compare the "password" sent from the key to a stored list of authorized codes and if it matches the code the engine will light up.


Transponder keys can be incredibly useful, but they pose some problems in the event of losing them or having them stolen. They are difficult to duplicate due to their unique microchip. Only an original transponder key that has already been programmed is able to duplicate the key. A professional locksmith or a local dealer of the car manufacturer or a reputable store can do this.

Although it is possible to program some transponder keys yourself, many people prefer to hire a professional to do the task. This is because the process involves many steps and that every vehicle's antitheft system functions differently. Making sure the task is done by a professional also helps to ensure that the new key is correctly programmed and will function correctly.

Transponder keys must be maintained to ensure they continue to perform as they should. This means keeping it out of extreme temperatures or water and making sure you don't drop it. If you accidentally drop your key, it's best to see a professional locksmith or dealership for the car manufacturer as soon as possible to get it replaced.

It is easier to replace a mechanically operated key, but you should always keep a spare transponder. You will avoid the hassle and cost of having your car's computer reset in the event that you lose your only key. keys repair is because the anti-theft devices built into most vehicles will require the original key to be reprogrammed and this can be quite lengthy.

Key Fobs

It might seem absurd to think that your key fob could malfunction, but it's not uncommon. Fobs are packed with circuits and batteries that can be susceptible to damage from various sources. Extreme shocks, exposure water or liquids, and abrupt shocks can all cause them to cease functioning.

Fortunately, the majority of issues that be caused by key fobs are relatively simple to solve. First, check the battery. This can be easily replaced at a major retailer or hardware store that sells automotive batteries. If the issue isn't related to the battery, it might be due to damaged contacts inside the fob that block it from communicating with the receiver inside the vehicle. These are typically made of a rubber-like substance and coated with an electric conducting film that can wear off over time from repeated use. You can clean these by removing the fob, and disassembling it. Then, by carefully soldering contacts back in place will make them functional again.

In some instances, reprogramming the fob to connect to the car's receiver is all that's needed. You'll locate the instructions in the owner's manual or by searching online for your model of car. If you can't find instructions for the car model you have then a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in the model of your vehicle will be able help.

Certain cars, especially older ones with less sophisticated security systems, allow their owners to buy replacement fobs from specialized stores or online sellers, and then follow a straightforward procedure to program them. This is a less expensive alternative to visiting a dealer. However, it only works on vehicles that don't require special security protocols. According to CR, Audi and Subaru dealers are not able to use keys from aftermarket dealers to reprogram vehicles with digital encryption.

It's also important to note that some key fobs from aftermarket sources aren't easy or even impossible to program for your vehicle. As such some dealers aren't willing to accept aftermarket key fobs and will only accept a new one from the manufacturer of the vehicle.

Bluetooth Key Trackers

A Bluetooth tracker, also referred to as a keyfinder, is a small gadget you attach to your personal items like your keys or wallet. The app that you use on your smartphone will keep a connection to the tracker as long as it is within range when you connect it using Bluetooth. If you lose the item you can set it to vibrate by pressing the button on the tracker. You can also use the tracking feature on your phone to see the last location.

The majority of Bluetooth trackers run on rechargeable batteries. Depending on the model, this could bring convenience to your life as you can keep a device fully charged and available at all times to locate items you've misplaced. However, you must be aware of your battery's life as these devices can drain it quicker than standard.

If you are considering purchasing a Bluetooth tracker, you must also consider whether it encrypts the location information. Some companies do not, so you may be vulnerable if your company gets hacked and your information is leaked. Luckily, most manufacturers do encrypt this data. However, you should read the fine print before buying a product. The information you provide could be used by criminals to gain access to your vehicle or your home.