Replacing Lost Car Keys

Keys for cars that are lost are a frequent issue that can be very frustrating. Contacting an auto locksmith that specializes in cars is the quickest and most cost-effective way to get a new car key.

They'll typically make an entirely new key for you, without having to show proof of ownership. You will save time and money by not having to go to the dealer.

Basic Keys

In the past, losing car keys was not a big issue. And in many cases, it still not. However, as automobiles have become more technologically advanced, so have their keys and the replacement process for the lost car keys can be more difficult and expensive than ever before.

You can purchase an alternative key in the event that you lose yours or someone steals they. The process will vary depending on the model and type of the car you drive and also the type of key. The process and cost will differ based on whether you have keys that are fobs or traditional keys.

The traditional key is mechanical, and functions by inserting it into the ignition lock cylinder to turn on the vehicle. These types of keys can be changed by an automotive locksmith, who is typically able to create keys immediately. They'll require evidence of ownership, such as the registration or title in order to do so, though.

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 a professional auto locksmith who has the equipment necessary to cut the key and program the code to your specific vehicle model.

In some cases, it may be possible to purchase keys and key fobs online at only a fraction of what you'd pay at a dealer. It's important to research and shop around the kind of keys you own prior to making an online purchase. Some shops may not have the appropriate equipment for your car model.

If you have a smart key, which acts like a remote and requires a button to be pressed to start your vehicle, you'll have to visit the dealer in order to get a replacement. The keys are costly to replace, but are usually covered by the warranty of your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

As cars have gotten more technologically advanced, so are the keys that come with them. Highly recommended Reading have keys made of metal. However, most modern cars come with transponder keys. This type of key has an embedded microchip that must be programmed to function. This makes them more difficult for thieves to duplicate and makes them much harder to wire hot.

Transponder keys are also called chip keys. They derive their name from the embedded electronic chip that is in the head of the car key. Keys like these are now standard on most modern models of automobiles. They prevent vehicle thefts by preventing cars to start without the correct key. The key's immobilizer function is activated by the transponder, which sends a signal when it is used.

You can get your spare transponder key cloned by a locksmith for cars. The process is quite straightforward, however the cost will be more expensive than if you just needed to have a new transponder key made. This is because the locksmith will have to repair the cylinder of the key's cuts and also take the mechanism apart before they can make an identical key.

Even if it is not possible to have a spare key, your locksmith at the automotive store can create a key that is not transponder-based. This key will permit you to open and operate your car. They can do this by analysing the data contained in the transponder on your lost key and then copying it onto a new blank key. The key needs to be programmed in order to responds to the immobilizer on your vehicle. However, at least you won't need to try to start it.

While transponder keys do assist in preventing theft of cars It's important to remember that no device is foolproof. Even with this technology, thieves have discovered ways to get stolen vehicles to start. If you drive a high-end car or a family sedan, make sure you keep an extra key in a safe place.

Fob Keys

Modern key fobs are designed to do more than just start and unlock the car. They also function as a convenience device, and can even stop theft. However, all this functionality comes with a price: Fob keys are pricier than traditional car keys and more difficult to replace in the event of loss or damaged.

Fobs transmit radio signals using encoded codes to a receiver within the car, which then acts as a lock or unlocking the doors as well as starting the engine and activating the security system. Fobs come with a small key that is embedded within them which can be used in the event that the fob is not functioning properly.

While some experts recommend keeping a physical backup key on hand to avoid theft however, the majority of the time the best option is to visit a dealership. A dealer can design a replacement key fob for your vehicle that is programmed with the VIN number that is stored in a file. You'll also get the added assurance of a mechanical backup.


It's also important to know that the majority of modern car key fobs cannot be repaired by a corner locksmith, because they require sophisticated technology that locksmiths don't have. The cost of replacing a car key fob can be as high as $400 depending on the brand and model.

Replace the battery first if the key fob doesn't work correctly. A lot of manufacturers have instructions on how to do this on their website or in the owner's manual, and hardware stores and big-box retailers also sell affordable key fob batteries.

Another possibility is that your car's key fob was not working due to an issue with software. In this case it is possible to get it to work again by resetting all of the keys in your car according to the owner's manual's instructions (or hunting one down online).

You can also request an automotive locksmith to perform a remote reprogramming on your fob. 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 purse or pocket and finding the keys to your car. It can create stress, anxiety and even panic.

It's a good thing that replacing your car keys aren't as difficult or expensive as they were in the past. This is particularly true if you utilize a fob to open and start your vehicle. Fobs may also have additional features, such as a remote engine starter or trunk openers that help you drive and get into a vehicle.

Smart keys are the most advanced key type available, and they provide many benefits for drivers. They activate a proximity sensor in the vehicle, allowing you to unlock and lock your car door with a button or tap on your phone. You can also remotely start the engine to warm up or cool the interior prior to getting in. The majority of newer vehicles come with a smart key as the default option.

The same technology that makes smart keys more convenient also increases the likelihood of losing the keys. You can take steps to prevent losing the smart key by keeping it in your pocket, or by having an additional fob. If you do lose yours, you'll need to contact your dealer or an auto locksmith who offers fob replacement to obtain an alternative.

The good news is that smart keys were designed with specific scenarios in mind. If you forget to put your keys in the trunk of your car it will still function for as long as the battery is fully charged. In the same way, if you lose your smart key during a journey and aren't sure where it is, most systems will alert the driver that the car is at risk of being locked.

You can easily and quickly find a replacement car key fob by contacting a company like Keyway Lock Service. You can contact your local dealer to send you a new key however, it might cost more than hiring an auto locksmith.