What You Need to Know About Key Car Replacement
Losing your car key can be a very difficult experience. Fortunately, there are many options for key car replacement to help you get back on the road.
You can also go to the dealer. This is the most expensive option, however you will receive a working key and fob.
What's the Cost?
The cost to replace keys in your car is contingent on the year, model, and make of your vehicle. Certain keys for cars that are newer come with transponder chip technology and requires pairing by an auto locksmith or dealer before they can be used. This can raise the cost of replacement. The kind of key also plays a part in the price. Certain older mechanical keys are cheap to replace, but more advanced smart keys may need to be programmed.
When determining the price the first thing to consider is the type of key. Mechanical keys are easy to replace with a locksmith in your neighborhood for less than $50. However, if you own more sophisticated keys that uses a transponder or a key fob to open and start your car it will cost significantly higher. The transponder needs to be connected to the key fob, which is a special equipment only available from an auto locksmith or dealership.
Key fobs can serve as electronic remote controls to open doors and begin cars. Some have an LCD that displays the condition of your vehicle. Some keys cost up to $500.
You will need to tow your lost key to the dealer, and provide evidence of ownership. They will then be able to issue you a replacement key and electronically pair it with your vehicle. It can take a few days to complete, which could increase the overall cost.
If you have a car warranty that is still in effect, you should closely examine the terms to determine what coverage is provided for lost fobs or keys. For instance, some firms offer a breakdown insurance plan with key replacement cover which will pay for the cost of replacing or reprogramming the car key fob. Ultimately it is one of the best ways to save money on these unexpected costs.
What is the Process?
The specifics of the process for replacing keys depend on your specific type of vehicle. If you have an old mechanical key that inserts itself into your lock and turns it on, the procedure is fairly easy for a locksmith, or key cutter. Modern keys are more secure and convenience features, which could make them harder to replace.
For example, the key fobs that are used in some vehicles barely resemble traditional metal keys, and they require a special key to open the doors and start the engine. They are harder to duplicate and could require the assistance of a professional to program them, which may increase the cost.
Fortunately, the most popular method to obtain a cheap key car replacement is by going to your local auto locksmith. They'll have the equipment needed to perform this service and will usually get you to your destination in a matter of minutes. Roadside assistance is also available, but are usually more expensive.
You can also purchase a replacement car key at a low cost through your insurance provider. Some providers offer a special add-on for this purpose, and it's important to check their terms and conditions before making a decision to use this service.
If you have an older model that has an old-fashioned metal key, the process is fairly straightforward. Locksmiths or key cutters will be able copy the original with no difficulty. If your car is equipped with transponders in the key, you will need to take it to the dealer for replacement.
The dealer will need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN) and a copy of your driver's license to purchase an additional key for your vehicle. After they receive the key, they will need to program it in order that it is compatible with your vehicle. The keyless entry remote may also require reprogramming, which can be a lengthy procedure based on the level of your vehicle's anti-theft system. Check to see if this service is covered by your warranty or insurance.
What is the Time Frame?
If you have a spare key, and you lose your original key, you can replace it immediately. What if you do not have the original or spare key? In that case you'll have to contact an auto locksmith or a locksmith dealership.
The dealer will give you a new key and programmed fob. The process could take a few days. It depends on the model and make of your car and also the type of key you own.
In the case of older mechanical keys, an establishment like a hardware or locksmith can copy keys for you. The original key, along with evidence of ownership like your car's registration or title will be required.
If you own a newer car that uses an electronic key fob, you'll have to visit the dealer to get it replaced. The dealership will have the equipment necessary to do this, such as laser cutting and programming machines. The dealership will also be able to use the car identification numbers (VINs) to determine what kind of key your vehicle makes use of.
Another thing to consider is whether or whether your key fob is covered by an insurance policy or warranty. Check to see whether your key fob is covered by a warranty, an insurance policy, membership in an auto club, or roadside assistance.
The cost of a new key
If your key has been used for so long that it's starting to show signs of wear and tear, it may be time for a replacement. This could be visible scratches or rust, or a key that is hard to turn.
If your key suddenly stops working it could indicate that it's been compromised. If this happens it is recommended to replace the key as quickly as possible to prevent your car from being stolen. It could be that the key cylinder has been damaged and will need to be replaced by a professional. In this scenario you'll require a greater price for a dealership-level key that matches the specific model of your car.
What's the Alternative?
There are car key remote replacement near me to replacing the key in your car however, some of them can be more expensive. A locksmith, for instance will cost more than a dealership but will get you back on the roads more quickly.
It's more expensive to call the local garage. The garage will not have the equipment needed by an auto-locksmith owns. They'll have to purchase it from a specialist.
If you want to try this option, make sure that you bring the VIN number of the car to ensure they know the exact type of key you require. If you decide to go this route, you will need to bring your VIN number to enable them to determine the exact type of key that you require.
You can also contact an emergency roadside service that will tow your car to a dealership to get the replacement keys. It could take a while for them to get the key you need. You may also make a claim through the insurance company that covers your car but this will usually be more expensive and comes with an upper limit on how many times you can file a claim for the coverage for.
Contacting an auto locksmith is the best method to get a new car key for your vehicle. They'll have the specialist key coding equipment to replace your fob, and typically can do it for a lot less than the dealer. They can also complete the job more quickly, which is great for those in a hurry. Another option is to contact an emergency roadside assistance service but this could be costly and you might have to wait a while before they can send someone to you.