What You Need to Know About Key Car Replacement
Losing your car key is a terribly frustrating experience. There are many alternatives for replacement keys which can help you get back on the road.
One alternative is to visit the dealership. This is the most expensive option but it will provide you with a functioning key as well as a fob.
What is the cost?
The cost of replacing your car keys will vary based on the year, make and model of your car. Certain models of newer vehicles come with transponder chips inside the keys that need to be connected to the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith prior to their work, and this can increase the cost of replacement. The kind of key also plays a part in the price. Certain older mechanical keys can be replaced inexpensively, while more advanced smart keys may have to be reprogrammed or even completely rebuilt.
The kind of key is the most important factor to take into account when determining the total cost. replacement key for car near me are simple and easy to replace, and they can be replaced by a local locksmith for less than $50. But, if you have a more advanced key that uses a transponder or an electronic key fob that allows you to open and start your vehicle it will cost more expensive. The transponder and the key fob will need to be programmed to work together with specialized equipment that is only available at a dealership or an auto locksmith.
Key fobs can serve as electronic remote controls to open doors and start vehicles. Certain key fobs come with an LCD that displays the status of your vehicle. Some of these keys can cost as high 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 issue you a new key and then electronically link it with your vehicle. This process could take a few days, which will increase the cost.
If you have a car warranty that is still active and you are able to read the terms of the warranty to see what coverage it offers for lost fobs or keys. For instance, some companies provide a breakdown protection plan that includes a key replacement policy that will help pay for the expense of replacing or reprogramming your car's fob key. Ultimately, this is one of the best ways to save money on these unexpected costs.
What is the Process?
The process of replacing a key for your vehicle is contingent on the kind of car you have. If you own a mechanical key that is placed inside the lock and then turned, the process for the key cutter or locksmith should be relatively easy. Modern keys come with more security and convenience features, which could make them harder to replace.
For example keys used in certain cars don't resemble traditional metal keys, and require a specific key to unlock the doors and start the engine. These are more difficult to duplicate and might require a specialist to program them, which could increase the cost.
Thankfully, the most common method to obtain a cheap key replacement for your car is by going to your local auto locksmith. They'll have all the equipment necessary to perform this service and will generally get you back on the road in just a few minutes. Roadside assistance services are also available, but are generally more expensive.
Another option for getting an inexpensive replacement for your car keys is through your insurance provider. Some providers offer a special add-on specifically for this purpose It's essential to read their terms and conditions prior to choosing this option.
The process is fairly easy if you own an older model that has a metal key. Locksmiths or key cutters can duplicate the original key with ease. If your car is equipped with a transponder inside the key you will need to take it to the dealer for replacement.
The dealership will need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN) as well as the copy of your driver's license in order to order an additional key for your car. 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 is a long process depending on the complexity of your vehicle's anti-theft system. Check to see if this service is covered by your warranty or insurance.
What's the Time Frame?
If you have a spare key, and you lose your original key, you can have it replaced immediately. But what happens if you don't have the original key or spare? In that situation, you'll need to contact the locksmith or a car dealership.
The dealer will be able provide you with a brand new key and programmed fob. The process could take a couple of days. It's dependent on your car's make and model as well as the type of key that you have.
If you have older mechanical keys, the hardware store or locksmith can copy them for you. The original key, as well as evidence of ownership like your car's registration or title will be required.
You'll need to bring your car to the dealer to replace it if you have an older model that is equipped with the keyfob. The dealership has the equipment for this, such as 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.
Another thing to take into consideration is whether or the key fob you have is covered by an insurance policy or warranty. Examine your car's warranty, insurance policy, auto club membership, or roadside assistance insurance to determine if this is the case.
The Cost of the Replacement Key
It may be time to replace your key if it's showing signs of wear. This could include visible rust or scratches or even a squishy key that's difficult to turn.
If your key suddenly ceases to work it could indicate that it's been compromised. If this happens, you should replace the key as fast as you can to prevent your car from being taken. It could be the case that the cylinder has been damaged and will need to be replaced by an expert. In this case you'll probably require a greater cost for a dealer-level key that matches your car's specific model.
What's the alternative?
There are some alternatives to replacing the keys to your car, but they can be expensive. For example, a locksmith will typically cost more than a dealership, but they will likely be quicker in getting you back on the road.
It's more expensive to contact the local garage. The garage might not have the key coding equipment that an auto locksmith has, so they will need to obtain it from an expert.
If you're interested in trying this option, make sure that you bring the VIN number of the car so that they can identify the exact type of key you need. If you decide to go this route, you will need to bring your VIN number so that they can determine the exact type of key that you require.
Another option is to contact an assistance line for roadside emergencies and request them to tow your vehicle to the dealership to have the keys replaced. They may have to order the kind of key you require, which can delay your vehicle. You can also file a claim through your car insurance provider. However, this can be more costly and you might only be able to claim the cover for a specific number of times.
key replacement car to obtain a new car key is to contact an auto locksmith as quickly as you can. They'll have the specialist key coding equipment to replace your fob, and typically can do it for significantly less than the dealer. They can also do the job faster and is a great option when you're in urgent need of assistance. You can also call an emergency roadside assistance service, but it can be expensive and take an extended time to reach someone who can help you.