Cargo and Automotive: Lost Keys | FAQs (2024)

FAQs

What to do if both keys are lost? ›

If you have a traditional key, a locksmith can make you a replacement key without the original on the spot. If you have a more technologically advanced key, you'll probably need to get a tow to a dealership and order a replacement from them.

If you don't have an extra key, you'll likely need to get a replacement at a dealership and provide proof of ownership, according to Carfax. The dealership will then program a new key to work with your car. This may take a few days, during which they will need to hold onto the car.

Vehicle KeyCodes are located on the original vehicle invoice to the dealership. There is a small white bar coded tag sent with most new vehicles that also has the key code printed on it. Dealerships should make a practice of comparing the tag's keycode numbers to the keycode listed on the invoice.

An Auto Locksmith can help you with lost keys for any type of motor vehicle from a car, van, truck or motorcycle. So if you need a spare car key cutting or your remote car key programming we recommend to contact a local MLA approved auto locksmith near you.

Does AutoZone cut blank keys? AutoZone can cut a new key blank for most makes and models, whether or not you require a transponder key. It's traced from your current key and is digitally verified before you leave the store.

We have nearly every make and model car key fob in stock and can program it while you wait.

Transponder key (Chip Key) is a key equipped with RFID (radio frequency identification) chip inside its plastic head. This technique prevented car theft by rendering hot-wiring ineffective.

If you have a key fob, smart key, or transponder key, you can track them. You will need a car key tracking device or an app connected to your key. The device consists of two parts - a remote and a receiver. You use the receiver to send a signal and then you can track it with the radio frequency or Bluetooth.

A: It really depends on the car. With some, the key fobs can be programmed without any special tools, but others require one or more tools to do the job.

There are a number of "Code Brokers" who offer a service for getting the key code from the VIN. They work by taking your enquire to the vehicle manufacturer.

Can you decode a lost car key? ›

However, if you had only one set of car keys and lost them, then you may decode your car lock. After that, you will receive a code and can make new keys for the car or recode your lock so no one will be able to open your car with the old ones.

In most cases the key number will be stamped on the front of the lock next to where the key enters. In some cases the number may also be stamped on the original key.

If you're locked out, we can open the lock to get you back in your car . Our equipment reads the key design from the car's lock so we can copy it. We'll pick a blank key or fob to suit your vehicle from the range carried in our vans. We can usually cut and program a replacement key in around 40 minutes.

There are several methods you can try to start your car without a key fob in case of an emergency: the screwdriver-hammer method, hotwiring the engine, or looking for the red coil wire. You can also try to use the mobile app (if applicable) or locate the secret switch that's usually located in the steering column.

Customization: Key fobs are designed to work with specific car models, which means they are often customized to match the specific make and model of the car they are intended for. This customization process also contributes to the higher cost of replacement.

The odds of a burglar using a lost key to enter your home are very slim, but we still recommend replacing your locks after losing house keys.

A locksmith will recommend you change your door locks if you lose your keys as a security prevention. Changing your locks after losing your keys will stop anyone from accessing your home who does not have permission to.

Report your lost keys to your insurer as soon as you realise they're gone – even if you have spares. Any lost keys could be used to steal a vehicle and become a security risk for your car and even your home. Insurance can cover the loss of keys, while others may pay to send someone to get into your car if needed.

Leveraging Bluetooth Trackers

Bluetooth trackers are game-changers for finding lost items like key fobs. Devices such as the Tile Mate and Tile Pro are designed to attach to your key fob and, through your smartphone's key fob finder app, allow you to track its location.