Last Updated on October, 2024
Losing the key fob is something that can happen to anyone. When it happens, it may feel like your whole day is ruined.
Are you someone facing this situation? Are you stuck, unable to use your car, and wondering what to do next?
If YES, this article is here to help you. It covers the steps you take to get back on the road, as quickly and smoothly as possible.
Take a deep breath, and let’s get started.
Quick Summary
- Steps to Take If You Lose Your Car Key Fob: First, try to locate the key by retracing your steps and checking common places. If unsuccessful, use a spare key if available, or contact a local dealership or automotive locksmith to get a replacement.
- Cost-Effective Replacement Options: A locksmith generally offers a faster and cheaper solution than a dealership for replacing lost key fobs. DIY replacement is another cost-effective option, though it can be challenging.
- Security and Preventive Measures: If you suspect your key fob is stolen, report it to the police and have the lock or key fob reprogrammed. To prevent losing your key fob in the future, consider using a key fob holder, key finder, or upgrading to a keyless entry system.
What to Do if You Lose Your Car Key Fob?
Accidents happen, and you may lose your car keys, creating a stressful situation. However, you can manage it smoothly by following the below steps.
Try to Recall Where You Kept the Car Keys
It’s normal for you to panic when you find your car keys are lost. Try to remain calm and double-check your pockets, bags, and places where you usually keep the keys.
If you can’t find it, try to retrace your steps. Think about where you visited last and where you may have left the car key.
Check tables, counters, car seats, and glove compartment of your car, as these are common places where you’ll place keys.
You can also ask your family members if they saw the key lying somewhere in the house.
Get Your Spare Key
If you have a spare key, you can use it to start your car until you figure out where you kept your original car key.
If you are on the road, you can ask a family member to get the extra key to your location.
If you don’t have a spare, you won’t be able to get your car back on the road.
However, some car models will allow you to use a traditional car key instead. You must check your vehicle’s manual and figure this out.
You can also call an auto locksmith and get a spare car key made for your car model
Get a Replacement Key From a Local Dealership
If you don’t have an extra key and your vehicle is not designed to start with a basic key, you can contact a local dealership and request a replacement.
Usually, a local dealer has a record of the vehicles they sell for security purposes, and they’ll be able to get your vehicle’s information from their database quickly. However, they will still ask you for proof of ownership.
Additionally, a local dealer is experienced in programming new keys and has the right equipment. You can be at peace knowing you’ll receive a genuine transponder key, not a cheap duplicate.
The only downside is that local dealerships can cost more than a local locksmith, and you have to schedule an appointment and tow the car to the dealer’s location. This can be time-consuming and costly.
The cost of a replacement key fob depends on your car type and the relationship with the dealer. For example, if you replace your car key fob from the same dealer where you purchased the car, the cost will be a little lower.
Reach Out to an Automotive Locksmith
Local locksmiths can replace lost car key fobs. Many locksmiths provide mobile emergency service, and when you contact them, they’ll come to your location.
However, you must find a competent automotive locksmith who has the right equipment and knows how to programme a lost key fob.
You can get new car keys made by an automotive locksmith at a much lower cost than a car dealership.
You must provide the correct information regarding your car model, make, and VIN. This is crucial for programming transponder keys.
DIY Key Fob Replacement Method
Can you replace a key fob by yourself? You can, but you must buy a new key fob that matches your vehicle from a store. Then, you can work on programming the car key.
Programming smart keys can be daunting and time-consuming, but if you can do it yourself, you’ll be able to save a lot of money.
The programming method varies according to the car type. You can learn it from your vehicle’s manual or find it online by entering your vehicle model and other necessary information.
However, you must be careful with this option, especially if you are a beginner. If you damage car parts or programme the car key incorrectly, you will have to spend more for repairs.
Relevant guides:
Low-Cost Key Fob Options You Can Choose
DIY key replacement or an automotive locksmith are the cheapest ways to replace your lost smart keys.
In DIY key replacement, you buy a key fob for a low price from a store and programme it yourself.
Contacting an automotive locksmith is another cheap method to replace lost car keys. It’s also fast and secure.
Usually, a locksmith can replace any type of car key, such as a transponder key, switchblade key, traditional car key, etc., and for various vehicle models. Locksmiths have cost-effective key cutting and programming methods that reduce the final price.
Note: As per the consumer reports, the price of replacing a car key depends mainly on the key type. For example, replacement key fobs may cost more than traditional car keys but less than switchblade keys.
Key Fob Replacement Tips
- Check your warranty. Some companies will replace lost key fobs for free during the warranty period.
- Check if your insurance will cover the cost of replacing lost key fobs. If so, contact the insurance and take the necessary steps.
- See if your vehicle is designed for an aftermarket fob. Some cars, like Audi, are not designed for aftermarket key fobs. This enhances the security system but will take longer to replace when you lose the car keys.
Under these circumstances, you can’t buy key fobs from a store and programme them.
- Research the pricing by getting quotes from different dealerships and locksmiths.
- Don’t go to a dealership directly, as you have other options to save money and do the job faster.
- If you have only one key, get a spare made when you replace the lost one with a new key.
- If you need any security upgrades for the new fob, get them done by the locksmith.
Security Measures to Take if You Think Your Key Fob is Stolen
If you suspect your car key is stolen, you must report it to local law enforcement immediately to prevent theft of the vehicle.
You can contact your insurance provider to check whether your policy covers replacing stolen key fobs. If yes, you must provide the report number the police gave to the company.
Finally, you must find a dealership or locksmith to change the lock or reprogramme it.
The security chip in the key fob is programmed to match your vehicle’s ignition system. After reprogramming, the old key cannot unlock the car door or access the ignition system.
Tips to Prevent Losing Your Car Key Fob
- Purchase a key fob holder to clip the car keys to your pocket or belt.
- Make a habit of checking your pockets for the car keys when leaving the vehicle or a building.
- Have a separate drawer to keep your fobs and keys in.
- Attach a key finder to find your keys easily if they are lost.
- Consider upgrading to a keyless entry system. A keyless entry system provides more security and convenience.
Quick Recap
If you lose your key fob, double-check your pockets, car seats, and where you usually place the keys. If you suspect a key fob theft, report it to the police immediately.
You can get a replacement key fob from a dealership or a locksmith. A locksmith costs less, and the service is faster. A dealership will take a few days to replace your fob, costs more, and you have to tow your car to their location.
Check your warranty and insurance policy to see if they cover the costs of key fob replacement. Be organised and use technological devices to prevent losing your car key fobs in the future.
