What to Do When Both Car Key and Spare Key Are Lost?
2 Answers
Safety First: Remote Key Loss Traditional remote keys are essentially a combination of a remote control and a mechanical key. If only the remote is lost, take the spare remote and a newly purchased one to a 4S shop to have them rematched with the car. However, simply rematching the remote is insufficient, as the person who found the key could still use the mechanical key to open the car door. Additionally, replace the mechanical lock chip. Key Loss Nowadays, many car models come with a chip inside the key for engine immobilization. The chip contains pre-stored anti-theft codes. When the key is inserted into the ignition and turned or pressed, it automatically exchanges data with the engine.
If the spare key is also lost, I would advise you to act immediately. First, stay calm and ensure the vehicle is in a safe location to prevent theft. Contact your car dealership or brand service center directly, explain the situation, and provide your vehicle's VIN number to expedite the process of matching a new key. Losing the key means you can't start the car, so you'll need a professional locksmith to unlock the door and program a new key. The cost can range from 500 to 2000 yuan, depending on the complexity of the car model. Additionally, check with your insurance provider or roadside assistance service to see if they cover part of the expenses. During this process, I recommend checking the car for any valuables left inside and removing them as soon as possible. Once you get the new key, make an extra backup, such as using a mobile app or a physical backup card, to avoid repeating the mistake. The entire process may take about one or two days, so be patient.
