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It's impossible to predict the exact date you'll lose your car keys. And when it happens it usually happens at the most un-cooperative time.
You could call your dealership and ask them to make you an original key, but they will charge you astronomical amounts of money. In addition, they may not have the kind of key you require on hand.
Lost Keys
It wasn't long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a major problem. Locksmiths could quickly and easily replace it. As cars become technologically advanced, so are their keys. Replacing one can be a costly endeavor. Depending on the kind of key you own, the process for regaining access to your vehicle may be a lengthy process that could cost hundreds of dollars, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD.
It can happen for a variety of reasons, but most often it happens when you are caught up in a rush or distracted and fail to remember where you put your keys. It's important to keep a spare set keys in a safe location and to go back through the steps you took in case you lose keys.
Start by thinking back to the last time you used them, and then go through every place you could have put them. Take a look in your pocket or on the floor of your car (including the trunk) or on your desk at work or wherever you may have been sitting, like at a table in a restaurant during lunch or while waiting for a ride-sharing service to pick you up.
Also, consider whether you've given an extra key to anyone. If so, you should contact the person to inquire whether your key has been discovered. And don't forget to check at your home for keys, too. They are often hidden under couch cushions or over mail stacks.
If you're still looking for your keys then the next step is to determine the kind of key you have, and who you should contact to change it. In some cases you might need go to a dealer to have a new key made in particular if it has a transponder chip, or other technology that requires programming.
If you have an old-fashioned key locksmiths can usually make a new one immediately. In the majority of cases, you'll need to bring your vehicle's registration, title or any other evidence of ownership to the dealership. You'll also need a copy of your ID photo and any other keys you have.
Transponder Keys
It's almost certain that your car's key has transponder. These chips are designed to stop car thefts by making sure that only the owner is able to start the vehicle. They function by sending a signal from the key to an antenna ring close to the ignition cylinder. The computer inside your car will examine the "password" transmitted by the key to a stored list of authorized codes and when it is found to match the code the engine will light up.
Transponder keys can be extremely useful, but they also pose some problems in the event of losing them or getting them stolen. One reason is that they are extremely difficult to duplicate since they contain a unique microchip. Only a genuine transponder key that has been programmed is able to duplicate the key. This can be accomplished by a professional locksmith, the car manufacturer's local dealership or a reputable auto shop.
Many people choose to employ professionals to program transponder keys. This is because the process is comprised of numerous steps and each vehicle's antitheft system operates differently. The process is best completed by a professional helps to ensure that the new key will be properly programmed and will function correctly.
It is essential to take care of your transponder's key so that it will continue to function as it should. This means keeping it out of extreme temperatures or in water and avoid dropping it. If you accidentally drop your car keys, it is best to replace it as soon as you can by visiting an authorized dealer in your area or a professional locksmith.
It is easier to replace a key operated mechanically, but you should always keep a spare transponder. This will save you the stress and expense of having to have your car's computer system reprogrammed if you lose the sole working key. This is due to the anti-theft system installed in most automobiles will require the original key to be programmed and this can be very long and time-consuming.
Key Fobs
It may seem far-fetched to think that your most important fob is at risk of failure, but it's not all that uncommon. Fobs are comprised of batteries and circuits that could be damaged by a variety of causes. Extreme shocks, exposure water or liquids, and abrupt shocks can cause them to stop functioning.
Fortunately, a lot of problems that can arise from key fobs are quite simple to fix. The first thing to check is the battery, which can easily be replaced at the hardware store or at a large retailer that sells automotive batteries. If the issue isn't with the battery, it might be a problem with worn out contacts within the fob that block it from connecting to the receiver inside the vehicle. They are typically made of rubbery material and covered by a electrically conductive film. The film can wear away over time due to frequent use. They can be cleaned by removing the fob and removing it. After carefully soldering the contacts the fob can be restored to working condition.
In some instances you may find that reprogramming the fob in order to reconnect with the car's receiver is all that's needed. You'll usually find the necessary instructions in your owner's manual, or by searching online for your model of car. If you're unable to locate the correct instructions for the car model you have an independent dealer or shop that is specialized in the type of vehicle you have will be able to help.
Some vehicles, especially older ones with less sophisticated security systems, let owners purchase replacement fobs from specialist retailers or online vendors and follow a procedure to program them themselves. This is a less expensive alternative to visiting the dealer. However it is only available for cars that do not require special security protocols. According to CR, Audi and Subaru dealers are not able to use keys from aftermarket dealers to reprogram cars with digital encryption.
Certain key fobs from the aftermarket might be difficult to program into your car. As such some dealers are hesitant to work with fobs from aftermarket and will only accept a brand new one from the auto manufacturer.
Bluetooth Key Trackers
A Bluetooth tracker (also known as a key finder) is a small device that you attach to your items like keys or wallet. The app you install on your phone will stay connected to the tracker for as long as it is within range once you connect it via Bluetooth. If you lose the item you can set it to sound ring by pressing the button on the tracker. You can track the device on your phone to see a map showing its last location.
The majority of Bluetooth trackers have batteries that are rechargeable. This is a great method of keeping a device fully charged and ready to find items that you've lost. However, you'll need to be aware of the battery's life as these devices can drain the battery faster than regular.
Another aspect to consider when purchasing a Bluetooth key tracker is whether it can encrypt your location information. Some companies don't, so you may be at risk if the company is compromised and your data is stolen. Luckily, most manufacturers do encrypt this data. However, you should read the fine print before buying a product. This information could be used by a criminal to gain access to your vehicle or home.