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How to Replace a Lost Car Key Losing your car keys could be a major problem. The best place to start is by calling your local locksmith or dealer. They'll need proof of ownership as well as the key that was used to make a new one. This isn't always the most cost-effective way to travel. Traditional Keys Metal car keys were once the most popular. They have grooves on either side that fit into a matching set of slots on the ignition. The key is then inserted into the ignition and turned to start your car. It is less expensive to replace a traditional key compared to other types. You can contact an automotive locksmith to have a brand new traditional key made while you wait. The locksmith will need the make, model and year of your vehicle. The locksmith may also require proof of ownership in order to verify your eligibility to purchase keys. If you have a more recent vehicle, it's likely to have a transponder keys. They cost more to replace but they are also more secure against theft. The head of the transponder key is equipped with an electronic chip which communicates with the computer system of 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 with a code. Some use rolling codes that send an entirely different code each time it is used, making it very difficult for thieves to duplicate them. If you own a contemporary vehicle that has a transponder keys it is recommended to keep it in a safe place. Transponder keys last longer than traditional metal keys, but they are more costly to replace in the event of the loss. If you lose a transponder key, you'll need to contact the dealership to obtain a new one. You'll need to supply your VIN, a 17-digit number that tells the dealer which vehicle it is compatible with. You will also need to provide your car's serial number. The serial number is usually found on a label that's located on the driver's door or on a card in the owner's manual. These numbers are crucial as they can assist you in finding your vehicle in the event it is stolen or lost. Transponder Keys If you own a vehicle manufactured in the past 20 years or so, it is likely that your car's key has a transponder chip. These tiny pieces of technology are programmed to your particular car, meaning only you are able to start it. The transmission will lock your vehicle if it senses the key does not match the code. This is to ensure that only the owner is able to start the car. These keys are excellent for your car because they deter car theft. Hot wiring is a method that car thieves have used to start vehicles. Once cars began using transponder chip technology, it became more difficult to steal the car as the burglar needed the right key in order to send the signal to start the car. Fortunately, if you own traditional keys and lose it, a local locksmith can cut you a new one on the spot and erase the old one from your car's system. On the other hand, if you have an electronic transponder or fob key, you will have to visit the dealership to have it replaced. This is because the dealer will need to know your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) in order to purchase the appropriate key for your particular vehicle. This is because they will have to make sure that the key they're ordering for you is compatible with your specific vehicle to be able to start it and unlock your doors. You will also need to show evidence of ownership such as your registration or title to receive the replacement key from the dealer. This type of replacement can be a bit more expensive, but it's worth it if you think about the possibility that your car key was stolen. If you're concerned about the cost of replacing your lost car key, check to whether it is covered under your warranty or car insurance. If it isn't, you will probably require bringing your vehicle to the dealership to have it towed, and then purchase it 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 needing to insert a traditional key into the ignition. They are also referred to as keyless entry keys or remote control keys. They are usually less expensive to replace than older, more traditional varieties. They're not impervious to damage however, neither are other electronic gadgets for consumers. They're also easy to lose and stop working over time as they are lost in your purse or pocket. Fobs emit an electronic code that allows the driver to unlock and start the car. When the fob is placed on an inside sensor it reads the code and the doors are opened and the engine starts. Some fobs have additional features, like a button that summons the car (similar to the Tesla summon feature). If you lose your key fob make sure that your keys aren't locked in bags or purses that is secured. If they're not in your possession, look through your day and find the places you might have lost them. Check your pockets, in bags that you had with you, and also on counters or other surfaces. car keys lost what to do may be able locate your keys in a spot that you dropped them in or put them down briefly when you were attempting to buy something. You can buy replacement key fobs on the internet, but they need to be programmed for your vehicle. Certain keys, like the ones used by Audi and Subaru need a trip to the dealership to have them reprogrammed to your particular key. The good news is that roadside assistance companies like AAA can assist you with this. If you do decide to purchase a new key fob, comparison shop. Some retailers will cut and program the fob they purchase elsewhere for less money than for doing exactly the same thing at the dealer. It is also possible to replace the outer shell of certain fobs with keys with the electronics in working condition. Check your car-insurance policy or auto club membership to determine if you have any coverage that covers this. Keys with chips Keys In the past few years, automobiles have become increasingly advanced in terms of technology. This has resulted in more sophisticated keys. These newer keys cannot be duplicated by locksmiths. They require a specialized machine. It is more expensive to replace the lost car key using a chip. If you lose your transponder chip key or it is stolen from you, then you'll need to call the local dealership to get a replacement. This is because they keep a record of security information on their system and can pair the new chip to your vehicle without too much hassle. The process can take a few more days as the dealer needs to purchase the key directly from the manufacturer. A professional locksmith can create an exact duplicate of the transponder key. It's a bit more difficult than taking your vehicle to a dealer however, you'll save a lot of cash in the end. In order to get an additional key, you will need the VIN number of your vehicle. This number can be found on your insurance policy or on the sticker on the driver's side door jamb. You'll need a copy of the old key with you. The locksmith can then match the key cuts. If you cannot find your old key, try searching in the trunk or other areas. Check your pockets and bags. You never know if you set your keys down somewhere or if you accidentally knocked them out of your bag while reaching for something else. If you can't find your car keys, you must immediately begin looking for them. First, make sure that you didn't leave keys at home or in the office. Next, carefully review your day to determine if they might have been misplaced. After you've checked your bags and cleaned out your pockets then it's time to apply more sophisticated search techniques.