What To Do If You Lose Your Car Keys
You don’t realize how valuable your car keys are until you lose them or when they stop working. They are your ticket to mobility and if they are not there you are trapped. Fortunately, there are many ways to replace a lost or broken car key if it seems to be having problems. Unfortunately, replacing car keys can also be very expensive in some cases, but not all of them!
Method 1
Replacement of an older car key
1. Write down the ViN Number of your car
This is necessary when finding someone to help you replace the key. In most cars, the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is located on the driver’s dash and is visible through the window, but it can also be on a rear wheel fairing or on the front of the engine block, in the trunk, or on the door jam, or on the frame of the car between the carburetor and the windshield washer.
On most passenger cars, you can find the VIN number on the front of the dash on the driver’s side. The best way to see it is to look through the windshield from outside the car. You can also find the VIN number on the driver’s side door pillar.
If you’re not sure where your VIN is located on your vehicle, you can also look up the number in your auto insurance information. It should be in the upper left corner of every page.
A VIN is a 17 digit letter / number. The letters I, O and Q are not in VIN numbers to avoid confusion with the numbers 1 and 0. This only works after 1981. Before 1954 there were no VIN numbers.
2. Write down the year, make and model of your car
Whichever option you choose to get a new car key set, you need to get this information. This information will tell you what type of key you need to open your car. Remember that keys must be unique!
3. Call a nearby Automotive locksmith
Call a nearby Automotive locksmith. This should be your first choice. They usually offer you the best deal on a new key, about half of what it would cost to get a new key from your manufacturer or dealer. They do not normally charge for visiting the car. They will unlock your car and then make a new key for you. While hardware stores are generally not equipped to make new car keys (rather than just copy them), locksmiths generally have more sophisticated machines. The older your vehicle, the more likely a locksmith can help you with a replacement key.
If you’ve lost a keyfob, a good locksmith can help you make a new one, depending on how advanced the key is. Also, they should be able to help you reprogram the replacement key, although your manual may have instructions on how to do this as well. Here are the Top 10 Best Locksmith in Boston, MA for Car Key Programming, be sure to bring any other key fobs associated with that vehicle as they may not work until the new key is programmed. Some cars require specialized equipment to program the keys that locksmiths and dealers have.
4. Look online for discounted replacement keys / fobs
After-market keys or even factory replacements can sometimes be found online for less than it would cost you to obtain them directly from the manufacturer. You may be successful with a reputable eBay dealer, but otherwise look for companies specifically dedicated to replacing car keys.
Again, the older the vehicle and the simpler the key, the easier it will be to replace. Amazon is a good place to start. However, keep in mind that some cars require special equipment for cutting and programming. Call to see who is willing to cut and program a key purchased online before purchasing one. Also compare the programming costs with the cost of a new one from the locksmith.
Method 2
Replacing a new electronic car key
1. Check if the key replacement is covered by the warranty or car insurance
If you have a very new or high-end vehicle, the key can only be replaced by the manufacturer or dealer. In this case, you may be able to get a discount through your warranty. Bring all of your vehicle details, a valid photo ID, and any other set of keys to the dealership. Expect the best!
2. Visit your local locksmith
Depending on the sophistication of your car key, a locksmith may be able to program a new electronic key. Many new car keys are microchipped to avoid duplication. However, if you have a key with a transponder, you can probably get a new one from a locksmith for $ 50 – $ 120 depending on your car and region. Manufacturers began using transponders in the 1990s – they are chips in the head of the key that communicate with the car. If the wrong key is in the ignition, the car won’t start. Transponder keys are available from locksmiths,
3. Purchase a replacement car key from the aftermarket
Search the internet for “aftermarket electronic car keys” and you will find many options for replacing electronic car keys. Often times, you can get a new car key for 75% less than what the dealer would charge you. But you still need to cut it out and program it, so be sure to check the prices in your area before you buy.
4. Obtain a new set of keys from your dealer
This will cost you over $ 200. However, if you just want a key that you know works and you want it quick and easy, this isn’t a bad option. Visit your local dealer: if it’s a Honda, go to a Honda dealer, if it’s a Ford, go to a Ford dealer, etc.
5. Program your new key for your car
Sometimes you can program them into your particular car without a dedicated technician. Instructions usually come with the new key, but the owner’s manual is very helpful in this situation. Depending on the vehicle, reprogramming generally involves opening and closing the doors and / or turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off. Basically, you are pressing a series of buttons like a code.
Method 3
Replacement of a faulty electric key
1. Cold or Heat is the cause – just wait
Sometimes extreme heat or cold can cause the electric key to malfunction. Also, going for a run with the key in hand can sweat and cause some problems. Let your key rest for a while before paying money to replace it. It could come back to life.
2. Reset all your keys
A key fob may stop working properly after a change or repair to your car’s electrical systems (like replacing the battery, for example).
Look up your specific car’s owner’s manual (or find one online) and reset all keys by following the instructions provided.
3. Replace the battery
If you notice that your key is not working properly in a few days, the battery may be low. A replacement battery for a key fob is generally inexpensive and can be found online at an auto locksmith or electronics store. Make sure you have the make, model, year, and VIN number of the car. Most batteries should be so simple that you can replace them yourself. Loosen the Philips screw on the back of the faucet, remove the old battery and insert the new one. That’s it your done!
You can also go directly to the dealer or the manufacturer, but this can be more expensive, especially if they charge labor costs when installing the new battery. Check your car’s warranty to see if the battery replacement is covered under warranty.
4. Re-program the Key
If you don’t want to do this yourself, you can get help from some locksmiths or even the car dealer, but the easiest solution is usually to follow the instructions in your owner’s manual.
Resetting typically involves pressing a series of buttons in a certain order, but this is different for every car. See owner’s manual.
For Further Assistance on your Car Key Programming – click here for The Best Locksmith Near You
Share on
Locksmithconnections.com offers a nationwide search for the best locksmith in over 4700 locations across the United States.
Or
Related Posts
How Does Car Key Programming Work?
How to reprogram car key fobs – Sometimes things seem difficult before trying them. But when we classify them, they become easier to understand.
Car Door Unlocking – Locked Yourself Out
Oh oh, You are locked out and you can see the keys on the dashboard. What steps can you take to unlock your car door if it has been locked?
Repairing VS. Replacing Key Fobs
Key fobs are some of the most common gadgets that auto locksmith experts service regularly do. However, our experience shows that much of the public remains confused as to the best way to choose when a car’s key fobs are not working properly.
How to Program a Car Key
Electronic keys are useful and protect your car from thieves. Fortunately, many of these keys and remotes can be replaced and programmed at home. To program a car key, turn the ignition on and off with the keys that work. Then use the unprogrammed key or press a button on the key fob.