Symptoms
- No working key or fob remains
- Car is inaccessible without towing or a locksmith
- May have a spare hidden somewhere not yet checked
- Need to get the car moved or accessed
Likely causes
- CommonAll physical keys and fobs genuinely lost or stolenThis requires creating a completely new key set programmed to the car's computer.
- PossibleA forgotten spare exists somewhereMany owners have a spare stored at home, with family, or from when the car was purchased that they've forgotten about.
What to do
- Double-check likely spots for a forgotten spare: junk drawers, glove box of another car, with family members, or original paperwork from purchase.
- Locate your VIN (visible on the dashboard through the windshield, on your registration, or insurance card).
- Contact your dealer or a licensed automotive locksmith and explain that all keys are lost; ask whether they can come to you or if the car needs towing.
- Have proof of ownership ready, such as your registration and a matching photo ID, since creating a key for a VIN typically requires this.
- Ask about cost upfront, since an all-keys-lost situation is more expensive than a simple spare because it may need reprogramming the car's computer.
- Once you have a new key, get a second spare made immediately to avoid repeating this situation.
Tools and parts
New key/fob setSearch: “replacement key fob for your car make, model, and year”
When to call a pro
This is a job for a dealer or an experienced automotive locksmith who can verify ownership and create a fully programmed key.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.