What You Need to Know About Key Car Replacement
Losing your car key is a terribly frustrating experience. There are a variety of options available for replacement keys for your car that can help you get back on the road.
You can also visit the dealer. It is the most expensive option, but you will get a functioning fob and key.
What is the cost?
The cost of replacing the key in your car is contingent upon the year, make and model of your car. Some keys for newer models have transponder chip technology that require pairing by an auto locksmith or dealer before they will work. This could increase the cost of replacement. The type of keys used can also affect the price. Certain older mechanical keys can be replaced inexpensively and more advanced smart keys may need to be reprogrammed or completely rebuilt.
The type of key is the first factor to take into account when determining the price. Mechanical keys are simple to replace with a locksmith in your area for less than $50. But, if you have more sophisticated keys which uses a transponder or an electronic key fob that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle, the price will be more expensive. 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 are electronic remote controls that can be used to open the doors and start the car. Certain key fobs come with an LCD that displays the current status of your vehicle. These can be a little more expensive than a traditional key, with some costing up to $500.
If you lose your key, you'll need to get it towed to the dealer and present the proof of ownership documents. The dealer can make a replacement key for you and then pair it electronically with your vehicle. It could take several days to complete, which can increase the overall cost.
If your car warranty is still in effect, carefully read the conditions and terms to determine the coverage you will receive for lost keys or fobs. Some companies offer a breakdown cover plan that includes a key replacement coverage. This will allow you to pay for the cost of replacing or reprogramming your car key fob. In the end this is among the most effective ways to save money on these unexpected costs.
What is the Process?
The procedure of changing a key for your vehicle is contingent on the type of vehicle you have. If you have mechanical keys that are inserted into the lock, and then turned, the process for the key cutter or locksmith is fairly simple. Modern keys are more secure and convenience features, which can make them more difficult to replace.
Certain key fobs are different from traditional keys made of metal that they require a different key to open the doors and start up the engine. They are more difficult to duplicate and might require the assistance of a professional to program them, which could increase the cost.
Thankfully, the most common method of obtaining a low-cost key replacement for your car is by going to your local auto locksmith. They will have all the equipment needed for this service and can generally get you back on the road in just a few minutes. Roadside assistance services are available, but they are typically more expensive.
Another option for getting an inexpensive replacement for your car keys is through your insurance company. Review the conditions and terms of your insurance provider before making a decision about this service.
If you have an older model using a traditional metal key the procedure is quite simple. A locksmith or key cutter can duplicate the original with little difficulty. However, if your car has a transponder chip inside the key, you'll have bring it in to the dealer for replacement.
To purchase a brand new car key, the dealership will require your vehicle identification number and a copy your driver's licence. After they receive the key, they'll have to program it to work with your vehicle. The keyless entry remote needs to also be reprogrammed. This could be a long process depending on how complicated your vehicle's antitheft system is. It's also worth checking to see whether this service is covered by your warranty or insurance policy.
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 a spare? In this case you'll have to contact an auto locksmith or a locksmith dealership.
The dealer can provide you with a programmed key and a new one. The process could take a few weeks. It is contingent on the model and make of your vehicle and also the type of key you own.
A hardware shop or locksmith can duplicate mechanical keys that are older. They'll require the original key and evidence of ownership, such as your car's title or registration.
If you own a brand new car that uses the key fob, you'll have to visit the dealer to get it replaced. The dealership will have the tools necessary to do this like laser cutting and programming machinery. They'll also be able use the vehicle identification number (VIN) to determine the kind of key you're using for your vehicle.
Another thing to consider is whether or the key fob you have is covered by warranties or other coverage. Examine 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 replacement key
It may be time to replace your key if it is showing signs of wear. This could be visible scratches or the appearance of rust, or a lock that is hard to turn.
If automotive car key replacement isn't working at any point, it could be an indication that it was compromised by criminals. If this occurs you must replace the key as soon as possible in order to prevent your car from being stolen. It could be the case that the cylinder has been damaged and will need to be replaced by a professional. If this is the case you'll probably have to pay more for a dealer-level key that matches your car's model.
What is the Alternative?
There are a few alternatives to replacing the key in your car but some may be more expensive. For instance locksmiths typically cost more than the dealership but they'll be faster in getting you back on the road.
It will be more expensive to call your local garage. The garage will likely not have the specialist key coding equipment that an auto locksmith has, so they will need to get it from an expert.
Some companies like AutoZone offer car key replacement services however they'll use generic parts that don't correspond to the original keys. If you decide to go this route, you will have to bring along your VIN number so that they can determine the specific type of key you require.
You can also call an emergency roadside service to take your vehicle to a dealership for the replacement of the keys. They may have to order the exact type of key you require, which can result in delays. You may also submit a claim to the insurance company that covers your car however, this will generally be more expensive and come with an upper limit on how many times you can file a claim for the coverage for.
The best way to obtain an alternative car key is to call an auto locksmith as fast as you can. They have the specialist equipment needed to replace your fob and they can do it at a much lower price than the dealer. They are also able to complete the job quicker, which is great when you're in urgent need of assistance. The other alternative is to call an emergency roadside service company, but this can be expensive and you may have to wait long before they get someone out to you.