What You Need to Know About Key Car Replacement
Losing your car key is a terribly difficult experience. There are a variety of options for key car replacement that 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 and fob.
What is the price?
The cost of replacing the key in your car varies depending on the year, make and model of your car. Some keys for newer cars come with transponder chip technology and requires pairing by an auto locksmith or dealership before they can be used. This could raise the cost of replacement. The type of keys used can also affect the price. Certain older mechanical keys are relatively inexpensive to replace however, more advanced smart keys might need to be reprogrammed.
When determining the cost the first thing you should consider is the type of key. Mechanical keys are simple to replace by a locksmith in your neighborhood for less than $50. But, if where to get car key replacement have more sophisticated keys that uses a transponder or a key fob to unlock and start your car it will cost much higher. The transponder must be linked to the key fob, which requires specialized equipment only available from an auto locksmith or dealer.
Key fobs can be used as electronic remote controls to open doors and begin cars. Certain key fobs come with an indicator that shows the status of your vehicle. Certain keys can cost up to $500.
You'll need to take your lost key to the dealer and present evidence of ownership. They will then be able to issue you a replacement key and electronically pair it with your vehicle. It can take some time to complete, which can add to your overall costs.
If you have a car warranty that is still active and you are able to read the terms to see the coverage offered for lost fobs or keys. Some companies offer a breakdown cover plan that provides key replacement coverage. This will allow you to pay for the cost of replacing or reprogramming your car keyfob. This is the best method to save money when it comes to unexpected expenses.
What's the Process?
The procedure of changing a key for your car depends on the kind of car you have. If you have an older mechanical key that simply inserts itself into the lock and then turns it, the process should be relatively simple for a locksmith or key cutter. Modern keys however, have many more security and convenience features that could make them more complex to replace.
For example keys used in some cars barely look like traditional keys, and require a unique key to activate the doors and start the engine. These are typically more difficult to duplicate, and might require to be programmed by an expert, which could add to the cost.
Fortunately, the most frequent way to get an inexpensive key replacement for your car is visiting your local auto locksmith. They'll have all the equipment needed for this task and can typically get you back on track within a few short minutes. Roadside assistance is also available, but are usually more expensive.
Another option for getting a cheap car key replacement is through your insurance company. Check the conditions and terms of your insurance provider before making a decision about this service.
If you have an older model that has a traditional metal key the procedure is relatively simple. A locksmith or key cutter is likely to be able copy the original without much difficulty. However, if your car uses a transponder chip in the key, you'll need to take it to the dealer for replacement.
To purchase a new car key, the dealer 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 can be a long process depending on how complex your vehicle's antitheft system. Find out if this service is covered under your warranty or insurance.
What is the timeframe?
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 spare? In that situation, you'll need to contact an auto locksmith or a locksmith dealership.
The dealer will be able to provide you with a brand new key and a programed fob. The process can take a couple of days. It depends on the model and make of your vehicle and the type of key you own.
A hardware shop or locksmith can duplicate keys for mechanical ones that are older. They'll require the original key and some evidence of ownership, like your car's title or registration.
If you own a brand new vehicle that has the key fob, you'll need to go to the dealership to have it replaced. The dealership will have the tools necessary to do this like laser cutting and programming equipment. The dealership will also be able to use the vehicle identification numbers (VINs) to determine what kind of key your vehicle makes use of.
A warranty or another coverage could cover your key fob. Check to see whether your key fob has been covered by an insurance policy, a membership to an auto club or roadside assistance.
The cost of a replacement key
If your key has been used so often that it's starting to show signs of wear and tear, it might be time for a replacement. This could be visible scratches or rust or even a squishy key that's difficult to turn.
If your key stops working at any point it could be an indication that it has been compromised by criminals. If this occurs, you should replace the key as soon as you can to prevent your car from being stolen. This could also mean the key cylinder has been damaged, which will require a professional replacement it. In this situation you'll probably require a greater price for a dealership-level key that is compatible with your car's specific model.
What's the alternative?
There are a few alternatives to key car replacement however, some of them may be more expensive. For example, a locksmith will typically cost more than a dealership however they'll be faster at getting you back on the road.
You could also call your local garage, but it will be more expensive. The garage will not have the specific equipment that an auto-locksmith carries. They'll have to purchase it from an expert.
If you want to try this option, make sure that you bring the VIN number of your car to ensure they know exactly what kind of key you require. If you choose to go this route, you'll need to bring your VIN number to ensure they know the particular type of key you require.
You can also contact an emergency roadside service to take your vehicle to a dealership for the replacement of keys. They might have to purchase the exact type of key you require, which can delay your vehicle. You can also try to make a claim through your insurance company for your vehicle 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.
Contacting an auto locksmith is the best method to get a new car key for your car. They'll have the specialist key coding equipment to replace your fob and can usually do it for a lot less than the dealer. They can also complete the job quicker and is a great option for those in need of help in a hurry. You can also call an emergency roadside service, but it can be costly and take some time to find someone to you.