What You Need to Know About Key Car Replacement
Losing your car keys can be a very frustrating experience. There are several alternatives for replacing your keys that can help get you back on the road.
Another alternative is to visit the dealership. It is the most expensive option, but you will get a working key and fob.
What is the cost?
The cost to replace keys in your car depends on the year, model, and make of the vehicle. Certain keys for cars that are newer include transponder chips that must be paired by an auto locksmith or dealership before they can function. This could increase the cost of the replacement. The type of key can also impact the cost. Certain older mechanical keys are inexpensive to replace, however, more advanced smart keys might need to be programmed.
When determining the cost first thing to be aware of is the type of key. Mechanical keys are simple to replace with a locksmith in your neighborhood for less than $50. If you've got an advanced key that has a transponder, or an electronic key fob that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle, the price will be significantly higher. The transponder must be connected to the key fob, which requires special equipment only available from an auto locksmith or dealer.
Key fobs can serve as remotes that use electronic technology to open doors and start vehicles. Some key fobs feature an LCD that displays the condition of your car. Some of these keys can cost as much as $500.
You'll need to take your key that was lost to the dealer, and provide evidence of ownership. They will then be able to order you a new key and pair it electronically with your vehicle. This can take some time to complete, which can increase the overall cost.
If your car warranty is still in effect, be sure to read the conditions and terms to find out the coverage you will receive for lost keys or fobs. For instance, some firms offer a breakdown insurance plan that includes a key replacement insurance that will help to cover the cost of replacing or reprogramming your car fob. This is the best method to save money on unexpected expenses.
What's the Process?
The procedure for changing a key for your car is dependent on the type of vehicle you have. If you have an old mechanical key that inserts itself into your lock and turns it on, the process should be relatively simple for a locksmith or a key cutter. Modern keys, on the other hand, have many more security and convenience features that can make them more complex to replace.
For instance, the key fobs used in certain cars don't seem like the traditional metal keys, and they require a unique key to unlock the doors and start the engine. They are more difficult to duplicate and might require the assistance of a professional to program them, which could increase the cost.
Fortunately, the most popular method to obtain a cheap key replacement for your car is by going to your local auto locksmith. They'll have all of the tools needed to perform this service and will usually get you to your destination within a matter of minutes. In addition, roadside assistance can assist with this, but they're typically more expensive.
You can also get a cheap replacement car key through your insurance provider. Some providers offer a special add-on specifically for this purpose It's essential to read their terms and conditions before opting for this service.
If you have an older model using a traditional metal key the process is fairly straightforward. A locksmith or key cutter will be able copy the original key with ease. However, if your car has a transponder chip inside the key, you'll need to bring it to the dealer for a replacement.
To purchase a brand new car key, the dealership will require your vehicle identification number as well as a copy your driver's licence. Then, once they receive the key, they'll need to program it to work with your vehicle. The keyless entry remote will need to be reprogrammed, which can be a lengthy process depending on the extent of your vehicle's anti theft system. Make sure that this service is covered under your warranty or insurance.
What is the Time Frame?
If you have a spare key, and you lose your original, you can replace it immediately. But what if you don't have the original key or a spare? In this situation you'll need to seek out a dealer or locksmith.
The dealer will provide you with a brand new key and programmed fob. The process may take several weeks. It is contingent on the make and model of your car, as well as what type of key you own.
If you have older mechanical keys, the hardware store or locksmith will be able to copy them for you. The original key, as well as evidence of ownership, such as your car's registration or title will be required.
You'll need to take your vehicle to key replacements for cars the dealer to replace it if it's an older model that is equipped with keys fobs. The dealership has the equipment to accomplish this including laser cutting machines and programming machines. They'll also be able utilize the vehicle identification number (VIN) to determine what kind of key your car uses.
A warranty or other coverage could cover your key fob. Check your car's warranty, insurance policy or auto club membership or roadside assistance coverage to see if this is the case.
The cost of a new key
It may be time to replace your key if it is showing signs of wear. This can include visible scratches or the appearance of rust, or a lock that is difficult to turn.
If your key isn't working at any point, it could be an indication that it has been compromised by criminals. In that case, you'll want to replace it as soon as possible to avoid having your car taken away. This could also mean the key cylinder has been damaged, which will require a professional to repair it. In this case you'll have to pay a higher cost for a dealer-level key that matches your car's specific model.
What's the alternative?
There are some alternatives to replacing your car keys, however they can be expensive. A locksmith, for instance, will cost more than a dealership, but will help you get back on roads quicker.
You can also contact your local garage, but it will be more expensive. The garage may not have the specialist key coder that an auto locksmith carries, so they will need to get it from an expert.
Certain companies such as AutoZone offer car key replacement services, but they will make use of generic parts that won't correspond to the original keys. If you want to try this option, make sure that you have the VIN number of your car to allow them to identify exactly what kind of key you require.
You can also contact an emergency roadside service that will tow your car to a dealership for the replacement of keys. It may take a few days for them to order the key you require. You can also try to make a claim through your car insurance provider however, this will generally be more expensive and comes with an upper limit on the number of times you can file a claim for the coverage for.
The best method to obtain an alternative car key is to call an auto locksmith as fast as you can. They have the equipment needed to replace your fob and they can complete the job at a cheaper price than a dealer. They are also able to complete the job quicker, which is great for those in need of help in a hurry. The other alternative is to call a roadside assistance company, but this can be expensive and you may be waiting for a while before they can send someone to you.