15 Gifts For The Replacing Lost Car Key Lover In Your Life Replacing Lost Car Keys

It is a common problem to lose your vehicle keys. blog can be a hassle. Calling an auto locksmith who has a specialization in car locksmiths is the quickest and most cost-effective option to get a new car key.

You will not need to provide proof of ownership. This will save you time and money instead of having to visit the dealer.

Basic Keys

In the past, losing car keys was not a big problem. In many instances, it still not a major issue. However, as cars have become more technologically advanced, and so have keys, and the process of replacing keys lost in cars is more complex and expensive than ever before.

If you've lost your keys or someone has stolen them there is usually a way to get a new one, but the exact process can vary based on the type of car you have and the type of key you have. The process and cost will differ based on whether you have keys that are fobs or a traditional key.

The traditional keys are purely mechanical and operate by inserting them into the ignition lock cylinder to turn on the vehicle. A locksmith for automotive can replace these keys, and often will be in a position to create an entirely new key immediately. To do this, they'll need proof of ownership such as the registration or title.

The majority of traditional keys can be used with key fobs. Key fobs work as remotes and allow you to control certain functions of your vehicle. To replace a basic key with a key fob, you'll need to go to an auto locksmith that is professional and has the equipment necessary to cut the key and then program the code for your specific car model.

You might be able to purchase replacement keys and key fobs for a fraction the cost of the price you pay to your dealer. It's important to do some research and shop around the type of keys you own prior to making an online purchase. Not all shops will have the appropriate equipment for your car model.

If you have a smart key that acts more like a remote and requires the pressing of a button in order to start the vehicle, you'll have to go to the dealership in order to get replacement. The keys are costly to replace, but they are typically covered by the warranty of your car.

Transponder Keys

As cars have become more technologically advanced, so too have the keys that come with them. Many older vehicles still have metal keys. However, most newer cars come with transponder keys. This type of key features an embedded microchip that must be programmed in order to function. This makes it difficult for thieves to duplicate and hot wire.

A transponder key is also called a chip key and derives its name from the electronic chip in the head of the key. These keys are now the norm for a lot of newer models of cars and are designed to prevent vehicle theft by making it impossible to start a vehicle without a key. The transponder of the key sends a signal to immobilizer of your car when it is in use, and this is what allows it to start.

You can get your spare transponder key cloned by a locksmith in the automotive industry. The process is straightforward but it will cost more than if you were to purchase a replacement key for a non-transponder. This is because the locksmith has to fix the cylinder's cuts and take the mechanism apart before they can make a duplicate.

Even if you do not have a spare key, your locksmith at the automotive store will be able to create an alternative key that isn't transponder-based. This key will permit you to unlock and operate your car. They can do this by analysing the information contained in the transponder of the lost key and then copying it onto a new blank key. The key must be programmed to responds to the immobilizer on your vehicle. However, at the very least, you won't need to attempt to start it.

It's important to keep in mind that although transponders can prevent car theft, it isn't 100% secure. Even with this technology, thieves have discovered ways to make stolen cars start. If you're driving a high-end luxury car or a trusted family car, it's best to keep a backup key in a safe place.

Fob Keys

Modern key fobs are made to do more than start and unlock the car. They also serve as a convenience device, and can even prevent theft. But all that function comes at a cost Key fobs are more expensive than traditional car keys and more difficult to replace if lost or damaged.

Fobs transmit radio signals that have an encoded codes to a receiver inside the vehicle. The receiver then performs functions like locking or unlocking doors, starting the motor, and triggering vehicle security systems. Fobs come with a small key inside that can be used in the event the fob does not work properly.

Although some experts suggest keeping a backup key handy to prevent theft but, in the majority of cases, your best bet is to go to a dealer. A dealer can design a replacement key fob for your car that is programmed with the VIN number stored on the file. Additionally, you'll have the added security of a mechanical backup.


That said, it's important to know that the majority of modern car key fobs can't be repaired by a corner locksmith, because they require advanced programming equipment that most locksmiths do not have. The cost of replacing a car key fob can be up to $400, depending on the brand and model.

If your key fob isn't working correctly, you should first replace the battery. You can find instructions on how to replace the battery on a variety of manufacturers' websites or in your car's owner manual. Hardware stores and big-box retailers offer key fob batteries.

A software problem could be the reason your car's remote key fob has stopped working. If this is the case, you may be able to resolve the issue by resetting the keys on your car according to the instructions included in the owner's manual (or searching online for one).

A locksmith can also change the programming of your key fob remotely. This process usually takes about a minute and will spare you from paying for an entirely new car key fob.

Smart Keys

There are few things worse than reaching into your pocket or bag and finding you've lost your car keys. It can trigger stress, anxiety and even panic.

Thankfully changing your car key isn't as expensive or complicated as it used to be particularly if you own a fob that requires a code to open and start the vehicle. Fobs may also have additional features, such as a remote engine starter or trunk openers that allow you to drive and access a vehicle.

Smart keys are the most advanced keys type and offer drivers an abundance of convenience. They activate a proximity sensor in the vehicle, which allows you to lock and unlock your car door with the touch of your phone. You can also remotely start the engine to warm up or cool the interior prior to entering. The majority of newer vehicles come with a smart key as the default choice.

The same technology that makes smart keys more convenient also increases your chances of losing the keys. You can reduce the risk of losing a smart key by always having it with you, or by having an extra fob. If you lose yours, it is best to contact your dealer or an auto locksmith that offers fob replacement in order to obtain an alternative.

The positive side is that smart keys were made with specific case scenarios in mind. If you leave your key in the trunk of your car it will continue to function in the event that the battery is fully charged. If you have lost your smart key and have no clue where it is located, most systems will alert the driver if the vehicle is at risk of becoming locked.

If you're in search of a replacement for your car key fob you can contact a company like Keyway Lock Service to get an additional one quickly and easily. You can request your local dealer to order you a new key but it may cost more than hiring a locksmith for your car.