What You Need to Know About Key Car Replacement
Losing your car key is a terribly difficult experience. There are many options for key replacements which can help you get back on the road.
One option is to go to the dealership. It is the most expensive option however, you will receive a functioning key and fob.
What is the cost?
The cost of replacing your car keys is contingent upon the year, make and model of your vehicle. Some keys for newer cars have transponder chip technology that requires pairing with an auto locksmith or dealer before they can function. This could increase the cost of the replacement. The type of key you choose to use can be a factor in the cost. Some older mechanical keys are easily replaced, while more advanced smart keys may have to be reprogrammed or completely rebuilt.
The kind of key is the most important factor to take into account when determining the overall price. Mechanical keys are simple to replace by a locksmith within your area for less than $50. But, if you have a more advanced key which uses a transponder or key fob to unlock and start your vehicle it will cost significantly higher. The transponder will need to be linked to the key fob, which requires special equipment that can only be obtained from an auto locksmith or a dealership.
Key fobs are remotes with electronic controls that can be used to unlock the doors and start the car. Some come with an LCD that displays the status of your vehicle. Some of these keys can cost as much as $500.
You will need to tow 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 electronically pair it with your vehicle. This process could take a few days, which can increase the cost.
If your car warranty is still in effect, be sure to read the conditions and terms to find out the coverage you will receive for lost fobs or keys. Some firms offer a breakdown coverage plan that provides key replacement insurance. This will allow you to pay for the cost of replacing or reprogramming your car keyfob. In the end, this is one of the most effective ways to save money on these unexpected expenses.
What is the Process?
The details of the key car replacement process will depend on the specific model of vehicle. If you have an older mechanical key that simply inserts into the lock and turns it, the procedure is fairly easy for a locksmith, or a key cutter. Modern keys are more secure and convenience features that can make them harder to replace.
For example keys that are used in some vehicles barely look like traditional keys, and they require a unique key to activate the doors and start the engine. They are usually more difficult to duplicate, and might require to be programmed by professionals, which can increase the cost.
The local auto locksmith is the best place to go for a cheap key replacement. They'll have the equipment needed to perform this service and will usually get you on your way in a matter of minutes. Alternatively, roadside assistance services can aid in this, but they're usually more expensive.
Another option to get an inexpensive replacement for your car keys is through your insurance provider. Check the conditions and terms of your insurance provider before choosing this service.
If you have an older model using a traditional metal key, the procedure is quite simple. A locksmith or key cutter can copy the original with no difficulty. However, if your vehicle has a transponder chip inside the key, you'll need to take it to the dealer for replacement.
The dealership must have your vehicle identification number (VIN) and the copy of your driver's license 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 should also be reprogrammed. This could be a long procedure based on how complex your vehicle's antitheft system. Check to see if this service is covered by your warranty or insurance.
What is the time frame?
If you have a spare key in case you lose the original, you can replace it immediately. What if you do not have the original key or spare? In that case you'll have to contact a locksmith or a car dealership.
The dealer will be able give you a new key and programmed fob. The process could take a few weeks. It depends on the make and model of your car and also the type of key you own.
A hardware shop or locksmith can copy mechanical keys that are older. The original key, along with proof of ownership such a your car's registration or title will be required.
If you have a newer car that uses the key fob, you'll need go to the dealer to have it replaced. The dealership has the necessary equipment for this, like laser cutting machines and programming machines. 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 take into consideration is whether or not your key fob is covered under warranties or other coverage. Examine your car's warranty, insurance policy or auto club membership or roadside assistance insurance to determine if this is the case.
new car key replacement cost of the Replacement Key
If your key has been used so much that it's beginning to show signs of wear and tear, it may be time to replace it. This could be 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 has been compromised. If that is the situation, you'll need to replace it as soon as possible to avoid having your vehicle taken away. It could be that the key cylinder has been damaged and will need to be replaced by an expert. In this case you'll need to pay a higher price for a dealership-level key that matches your car's specific model.
What's the alternative?
There are a variety of options for replacing your car keys, however they can be costly. For instance locksmiths generally cost more than the dealership but they'll be faster in getting you back on the road.
It will be more expensive to call the local garage. The garage might not have the key coder that an auto locksmith has They will need to purchase it from a specialist.
If you want to try this method, ensure that you bring the VIN number of your vehicle so that they can identify the exact type of key you need. If you choose to go this route, you'll have to bring along your VIN number to enable them to determine the particular type of key you require.
You can also call an emergency roadside service that will tow your vehicle to a dealership to get the replacement keys. It may take a few days for them to order the key you require. You may also submit a claim to your car insurance provider but this will usually be more expensive and comes with an upper limit on the number of times you can claim the insurance for.
Contacting an auto locksmith is the best way to get a new car key for your car. They'll have the specialized key coding equipment required to replace your fob, and typically can do it for a lot less than the dealer. They can also complete the job faster, which is great if you are in urgent need of assistance. You can also call an emergency roadside assistance service, but it could be costly and take a long time to find someone to you.