Umair Gaines
Losing your electric key can be frustrating and stressful, but there are several options for replacing it. If you've lost the electric key for your car, you can either contact a locksmith or your car dealer. A locksmith is often the cheaper option, and they may be able to create a new key for you on the spot. However, if your car key is technologically advanced, you may need to go to a dealership and order a replacement. If you've lost the electric key for your prepayment meter, you can contact your energy supplier, who will provide you with a reference number or code. You can then take this to a local PayPoint or Payzone location to obtain a new key. Your energy supplier can also post a new key to you, which usually takes around three to five working days to arrive.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What to do before replacing a lost electric key | Retrace your steps, check your pockets and bags, check under the car, designate a spot for your keys |
| How to replace a lost electric car key | Visit a locksmith, contact your dealer, check if key replacement is covered by your warranty or car insurance, buy an aftermarket replacement car key, get a new set of keys from your dealer, program your new key to your car |
| How to replace a lost electric meter key | Contact your energy supplier, get a replacement from a local PayPoint or Payzone location, request your provider to post a new key, transfer any credit left on your lost key to your new one |
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What You'll Learn
Contact your energy supplier
If you've lost your electric key, the first step is to contact your energy supplier. They will be able to guide you through the process of obtaining a replacement and ensuring that your new key is properly set up and activated. Here are some detailed instructions on how to go about this process:
Firstly, get in touch with your energy supplier's customer support team. You can usually find their contact information on their website or your monthly bill. It's a good idea to have your account information handy when you call, such as your name, address, and account number. Explain to the representative that you have lost your electric key and request a replacement. They will likely ask for some information to verify your identity and account details.
Your energy supplier will then provide you with a reference number, which is essential for the next steps. Make sure to keep this reference number safe, as you will need it to obtain your replacement key. In some cases, your supplier may offer to mail you a new key or card that is already programmed and ready to use. This option usually takes around three to five working days, so if you're not in a hurry, it might be a convenient choice.
However, if you need a replacement more urgently, your energy supplier can help you arrange a quicker solution. They may direct you to a local PayPoint or Payzone location, where you can pick up a replacement key. Remember to bring your reference number with you to the store. The shop assistant will be able to set up your new key, and you can activate it as soon as you return home.
It's important to note that you may be charged a fee for replacement keys, especially if you have lost them multiple times. Additionally, any remaining credit on your lost key will be transferred to your new one, so you won't lose out on any prepaid energy credits. Throughout the process, your energy supplier's customer support team should be able to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
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Get a replacement from a local PayPoint or Payzone location
If you've lost your electric key, one of the quickest ways to replace it is by visiting a local PayPoint or Payzone location. Before you go, it's important to contact your energy supplier and inform them that you need a new key. They will provide you with a reference number, which you should bring with you to the store. Present this reference number to the shop assistant, who will set up your new key. Once you get home, you can activate your new key and start using it.
If you're not in a hurry to replace your lost electric key, you can opt for your energy provider to send you a new key or card via post. This usually takes around three to five days to arrive, and the new key will already be programmed and ready to use.
It's worth noting that any remaining credit on your lost key or card can be transferred to your new one. Additionally, if you've used emergency credit on your meter, remember to buy enough credit to cover it the next time you top up.
To find your nearest PayPoint or Payzone location, you can use their respective store locator tools on their websites.
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Locksmiths can make replacement keys
If you've lost your electric car key, you may be considering calling a locksmith. Locksmiths can make replacement keys for traditional locks, and they can also replace car keys. If your car was manufactured before the 1990s, you likely have a traditional key without any special features. In this case, an automotive locksmith can make a replacement key for you on the spot.
However, if your car key is more technologically advanced, you may need to get it replaced at a dealership. This is also the case if you have a key fob and switchblade key, where the key is tucked into the fob casing. You will need to provide proof of ownership, such as registration, title, or purchase paperwork.
If you are unsure whether your key can be replaced by a locksmith, simply ask them before hiring them. You can also buy a replacement key online or from a dealer and then have a locksmith program it for you. This will likely be a cheaper option than getting a replacement from the dealer.
To avoid losing your keys in the future, it's a good idea to always put them in the same spot when you get home. You can also get a spare key made and leave it somewhere separate from your keychain, such as in a drawer or with a friend or family member.
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Dealerships can order replacements
If you choose to go to a dealership, you will need to bring proof that you are the car's owner, such as registration, title, or purchase paperwork, as well as a valid photo ID. This option will cost upwards of $200. You can also buy an aftermarket replacement car key online for 75% less than what a dealer would charge, but you will still need to get it cut and programmed.
If you have a key with a transponder, you can get a new one at a locksmith for $50-$120, depending on your car and your area. Manufacturers started using transponders in the 1990s—they are chips in the head of the key that communicate with the car.
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Get a new key cut and programmed
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 that’s the case, be prepared to provide proof that you are the car’s owner, like the registration, title, or purchase paperwork. You can also buy a replacement key online, for example, on eBay, and then have a locksmith or dealer program it.
The key programming process is straightforward when you are looking to program a second key. Since you already have a master key, manufacturers assume you own the vehicle and make the process quick and easy. The process involves sitting in your driver's seat and setting your new, blank key within easy reach. If you have two existing keys, set the second existing key along with the blank. When ready, insert your working key into the ignition and turn the key to the "on" position. Don't start the motor. Simply turn the key to the point where the car's electrical system is activated. The instant that power is activated, turn the key back to the "off" position and remove it from the ignition.
If you have a third key, repeat the same swapping process with the third key. If not, leave the second key in the ignition. When your new key is inserted and turned off, your car should go into security mode. The security light should turn on the dashboard and remain illuminated for about three seconds while the key is programmed. On certain vehicle models, you may have to press the buttons on the key to confirm. Once the security light shuts off, remove the key, then reinsert it to test if the process was successful.
Some manufacturers will allow you to program a single key, even if you don’t have a key that works. However, you’ll still need to have the key cut to fit the ignition, which means you’ll need to provide proof of ownership to a locksmith.
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Frequently asked questions
First, retrace your steps and try to find your key. If you are sure it is lost, contact your energy supplier to let them know you need a new one. They will give you a reference number, which you can take to a local PayPoint or Payzone location. The shop assistant will set up your new key so you can activate it when you get home.
Your first replacement key is usually free, but you may be charged for further replacements.
It usually takes three to five days to arrive in the post. If you need a new key more quickly, your energy supplier might be able to arrange for you to pick one up from your local top-up outlet.
Try taking the key out of the meter and wiping it with a clean, dry cloth or toothbrush. If it still doesn't work, you may need to replace the battery. If your key still isn't working, contact your energy supplier.
