What You Need to Know About Key Car Replacement
The loss of your car key can be an incredibly painful experience. Luckily, there are several options for replacement keys for your car to help you get back on the road.
You can also go to the dealer. It's the most expensive option, however you will receive a working fob and key.
What's the cost?
The cost of replacing the key in your car is contingent upon the year, make and model of your car. Certain models of newer vehicles come with transponder chips on the keys that must be paired with the vehicle by a dealership or auto locksmith before they work, and this can increase the cost of replacement. The kind of key is also a factor in the cost. Keys that are older mechanical models are relatively inexpensive to replace however, more advanced smart keys may need to be reprogrammed.
When determining the cost the first thing to be aware of is the type of key. Mechanical keys are easy and straightforward, and they can be replaced by a local locksmith for under $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 much higher. The transponder will need to be linked up with the key fob, which requires specialized equipment only available from an auto locksmith or a dealership.
Key fobs can be used as remotes for electronic devices to open doors and start cars. Some have an LCD that displays the condition of your vehicle. types of car keys can cost as high as $500.
You'll need to take your lost key to the dealer and present proof of ownership. They will then be able to issue you a new key and pair it electronically with your vehicle. This process can take several days, which can increase the cost.
If your car warranty is still in force, you must carefully read the conditions and terms to determine what coverage you are entitled to for lost fobs or keys. Some firms offer a breakdown coverage plan that includes a key replacement coverage. This will allow you to pay for the cost of replacing or reprogramming the car key fob. In the end, this is one of the most effective ways to save money on these unexpected costs.
What's the Process?
The procedure for replacing a key for your vehicle is contingent on the kind of car you own. If you have an older mechanical key that inserts itself into your lock and then turns it, the procedure is fairly simple for a locksmith or key cutter. Modern keys, on the other hand, have many more security and convenience features that can make them more difficult to replace.
For example the key fobs that are used in certain cars don't seem like the traditional metal keys, and require a unique key to open the doors and start the engine. They are harder to duplicate and may require a professional to program them, which could increase the cost.
Fortunately, the most frequent 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 for this service and can typically get you back on your way in a matter of minutes. Additionally, roadside assistance services can help with this process too, but they're usually more expensive.
Another option for obtaining a cheap car key replacement is through your insurance company. Some insurance companies offer a specific add-on for this purpose It's essential to read their terms and conditions before choosing this option.
The process is quite simple if you have an older model that has a metal key. A key cutter or locksmith should be able to copy the original without much trouble. However, if your car has a transponder chip inside the key, you'll have bring it in to the dealer for a replacement.
To purchase a new car key, the dealer will require your vehicle's identification number and an original driver's licence. Once they have received 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. Find out if this service is covered by your warranty or insurance.
What is the timeframe?
If you lose a key and have a spare, you'll be able get it replaced as soon as you can. But what if you don't have the original key or spare? In that 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 can take few days. It's dependent on the make and model of your car and also the type of key you own.
A hardware or locksmith shop can duplicate keys for mechanical ones that are older. The original key, along with evidence of ownership like the registration or title of your car will be required.
You'll have to bring your car to the dealer to replace it if you have an older model that uses keys fobs. The dealership will have the equipment required to complete this task including laser cutting and programming machinery. They'll also be able use the vehicle identification number (VIN) to determine the kind of key your car has.
A warranty or another coverage could include your key fob. Find out whether your key fob is covered by a warranty, an insurance policy, membership in an auto club or roadside assistance.
The cost of replacing a key
It's probably time to replace your key if it is showing signs of wear. This could be visible scratches or rust, or a key that is difficult to turn.
If your key isn't working all of a sudden it could be a sign that it's been compromised by criminals. If this occurs it is recommended to replace the key as soon as possible to prevent your car from being taken. This could also mean the key cylinder has been damaged, which will require a professional to repair it. In this scenario you'll probably have to purchase a higher-cost dealer key that is compatible with your car's model.
What's the Alternative?
There are a variety of options for replacing your car keys, but they can be costly. 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 that is more expensive. The garage might not have the key software that an auto locksmith has and will have to get it from an expert.
If you want to try this option, make sure that you bring the VIN number of your vehicle to allow them to determine precisely what kind of key you require. If you choose to go this route, you'll need to bring your VIN number so that they can determine the specific type of key you require.
Another option is to call an assistance line for roadside emergencies and have them tow your vehicle to the dealership to have the keys replaced. It may take some time for them to obtain the key you need. You may also file a claim with your insurance company for your vehicle however, this will generally be more expensive and have an upper limit on how many times you can claim the cover for.
Contacting an auto locksmith is the best method to obtain a new key for your car. They'll have the specialized key coding equipment required to replace your fob, and can usually do it for significantly less than the dealer. They are also able to complete the job quicker, which is great when you're in a hurry. The other alternative is to contact an emergency roadside assistance service, but this can be costly and you might be waiting for some time before they send someone to you.