What You Need to Know About Key Car Replacement
The loss of your car keys can be a very frustrating experience. There are a variety of alternatives for replacing your keys that can assist you in getting back on the road.
You can also visit the dealer. It's the most expensive option however, you will receive an operational fob and key.
What is the price?
The cost of key car replacement will vary based on the year and make of your car. Some newer vehicles have transponder chips on the keys that need to be connected to the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith before they work, and this can make a difference in the total cost of replacement. The type of keys used can also impact the cost. Some older mechanical keys can be replaced for a low cost and more advanced smart keys may have to be reprogrammed or even completely rebuilt.
When determining the cost first thing to consider is the type of key. Mechanical keys are easy and easy to replace, and they can be replaced by a locksmith local to you for well under $50. If you've got an advanced key which uses a transponder or a key fob to unlock and start your vehicle it will cost more expensive. The transponder and the key fob must be programmed to work together and require specialized equipment that is only available at a dealer or an auto locksmith.
Key fobs are remotes with electronic controls that can be used to unlock the doors and start a vehicle. Certain key fobs come with a display which shows the status of your vehicle. Some of these keys can cost as much as $500.
You'll need to take your key that was lost to the dealer, and show evidence of ownership. They will then be able to issue you a replacement key and electronically pair it with your vehicle. This process could take a few days, which can add cost to your bill.
If you have a car warranty that is still in effect take a close look at the terms to determine what coverage is provided for lost fobs or keys. For example, some companies offer a breakdown coverage plan with key replacement cover that can help you pay for the cost of replacing or reprogramming your car fob key. Ultimately this is among the best ways to save money on these unexpected expenses.
What's the Process?
The process of changing a key for your vehicle is contingent on the type of vehicle you own. If you have a mechanical key that is put into the lock and then turned, the procedure for the key cutter or locksmith should be relatively easy. Modern keys however they have a variety of security and convenience features that could make them more difficult to replace.
car key replacement fob are different from traditional keys made of metal that they require a different key to open the doors and to start the engine. They are usually more difficult to duplicate, and might require programming by an expert, which could increase the cost.
Thankfully, the most common method to obtain a cheap key replacement for your car is going to your local auto locksmith. They'll have all the necessary equipment for this task and can typically get you back on the road in a matter of minutes. Roadside assistance services are available, but are generally more expensive.
Another option for getting an affordable replacement for your car key is through your insurance provider. Some insurance companies offer a specific add-on to this service and it's crucial to check their terms and conditions before choosing this option.
If you have an older model using a traditional metal key the procedure is quite simple. A locksmith or key cutter will be able to duplicate the original without much trouble. However, if your vehicle uses a transponder chip in the key, you'll need to bring it to the dealership for a replacement.
The dealership will need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN) as well as the copy of your driver's licence in order to obtain an additional key for your car. Once they receive the key they'll have to program it in order that it works with your vehicle. The keyless entry remote needs to be programmed. This could be a long procedure based on how complex your vehicle's antitheft system is. Find out if this service is covered under your warranty or insurance.
What is the Time Frame?
If you lose a key and you have a spare you'll be able to get it replaced immediately. What if you do not have the original key or spare? In that situation, you'll need to contact a locksmith or a car dealership.
The dealer will provide you with a programmed key and a new one. The process could take several weeks. It's dependent on your car's make and model, as well as the type of key that you own.
A hardware shop or locksmith can copy mechanical keys that are older. They'll need the original key and some evidence of ownership, like the title of your car or registration.
If you own a brand new vehicle that has the key fob, you'll need to visit the dealer to get it replaced. The dealership will have the equipment needed to accomplish this including laser cutting and programming machinery. The dealership will also be able to make use of the car identification numbers (VINs) to determine the kind of key your vehicle makes use of.
Another thing to take into consideration is whether or the key fob you have is covered under an insurance policy or warranty. Find out whether your key fob has been covered by an insurance policy, membership in an auto club, or roadside assistance.
The Cost of the Replacement Key
It's probably time to replace your key if it's showing signs of wear. This could include visible scratches or rust, or a key that is hard to turn.
If your key suddenly ceases to work it could be a sign that it's been compromised. In this case, you'll want to replace it as soon as you can to prevent having your car stolen. This could also mean the key cylinder is damaged, and will require a professional to repair it. In this case you'll require a greater price for a dealership-level key that is compatible with the specific model of your car.
What's the Alternative?
There are some alternatives to replacing the keys to your car, but they can be costly. A locksmith, for example is more expensive than a dealership, but it will get you back on roads quicker.
You can also contact your local garage, but that will be more expensive. The garage might not have the key coder that auto locksmiths carry They will need to obtain it from a specialist.
Some companies, such as AutoZone offer keys for cars, but they will use generic parts that don't match the original keys. If you're interested in trying this option, make sure that you have the VIN number of your vehicle so that they can identify precisely what kind of key you need.
Another option is to call an emergency roadside assistance service and have them tow your vehicle to the dealership to get the keys replaced. They might have to purchase the exact type of key you require, which could result in delays. You can also try to file a claim with the insurance company that covers your car, but that will typically be more expensive and comes with an upper limit on the number of times you can claim the cover for.
Contacting an auto locksmith is the best method to get a new car key for your vehicle. They'll have the specialized key coding equipment required to replace your fob, and can usually do it for much less than the dealer. They can also do the job more quickly which is ideal when you're in a hurry. Another option is to contact a roadside assistance company but this could be costly and you might need to wait for a while before they can get someone out to you.