What You Need to Know About Key Car Replacement
The loss of your car keys can be a stressful experience. There are many alternatives for replacement keys that can help get you back on the road.
You can also visit the dealer. This is the most expensive option, but it will provide you with a functioning key and fob.
What's the Cost?
The cost of replacing your car keys is contingent upon the year and make of your vehicle. Certain newer models have transponder chips on the keys that need to be linked to the vehicle by a dealership or auto locksmith prior to their function, and this could increase the cost of replacement. The kind of key is also a factor in the price. Some older mechanical keys are easily replaced however more sophisticated smart keys might need to be reprogrammed or completely rebuilt.
When determining the cost the first thing you should be aware of is the kind of key. Mechanical keys are easy and straightforward, and can be replaced by a local locksmith for well under $50. If you own a more advanced key that makes use of transponders or key fobs to unlock and open your vehicle, the price will be higher. The transponder needs to be linked to the key fob, which requires special equipment only available from an auto locksmith or dealer.
Key fobs can be used as electronic remote controls to open doors and begin cars. Some feature a display that shows you the condition of your vehicle. These can be a little more expensive than a standard key, and some can cost up to $500.
If you lose your key, you'll need to get it taken to the dealer and provide proof of ownership papers. The dealer can make a replacement key for you and then pair it electronically to your vehicle. This process can take several days, which will increase your costs.
If you have a car warranty that is still active take a close look at the terms to determine what coverage it offers for lost keys or fobs. Some companies offer a breakdown cover plan that comes with a key replacement coverage. This will allow you to pay for the cost of replacing or reprogramming the car key fob. Ultimately it is one of the most effective ways to save money on these unexpected expenses.
What's the Process?
The procedure of replacing a key for your car depends on the kind of car you own. If you have an electronic key that is inserted into the lock, and then turned, the procedure for the key cutter or locksmith is fairly simple. Modern keys, on the other hand are more secure and convenience features that could make them more complex to replace.
Certain key fobs are different from traditional keys made of metal that they require a distinct key to open the doors and start up the engine. These are more difficult to duplicate and could require a specialist to program them, which could increase the cost.
Thankfully, the most common method of obtaining a low-cost key replacement for your car is going to your local auto locksmith. They'll have all the necessary equipment to perform this service and can typically get you back on the road in just a few minutes. Roadside assistance services are also available, but they are typically more expensive.
Another option for getting an affordable replacement for your car key is through your insurance company. Some providers offer a special add-on to this service and it's crucial to verify their terms and conditions before opting for this service.
If you have an older model with an old-fashioned metal key, the procedure is quite simple. A locksmith or key cutter will be able copy the original with little difficulty. If your car is equipped with transponders in the key, you will need to bring it to the dealer for a replacement.
To order a new car key, the dealer will require your vehicle identification number and an original driver's licence. 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 can be a long procedure based on how complex your vehicle's antitheft device is. Make sure that this service is covered by your warranty or insurance.
What is the timeframe?
If car key and fob replacement have a spare key in case you lose your original key, you can replace it immediately. What if you do not have the original or spare key? In this situation, you will need to seek out a dealer or locksmith.
The dealer will provide you with a programed key and a brand new one. The process could take a few days. It depends on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as what type of key you own.
In the case of older mechanical keys, a locksmith or hardware store can duplicate them for you. The original key, along with proof of ownership such a your car's registration or title will be required.
You'll need to take your vehicle to a dealer to replace it if it's an older model that has keys fobs. The dealership will have the tools required to complete this task including laser cutting and programming machinery. The dealership will also be able make use of the car identification numbers (VINs) to determine what type of key your car uses.
Another thing to think about is whether or not your key fob is covered by an insurance policy or warranty. Find out if your key fob is covered by an insurance policy, a membership to an auto club or roadside assistance.
The Cost of the Replacement Key
If your key has been used so often that it's showing signs of wear and tear, it might be time to replace it. This could be visible rust or scratches or even a sticky key that's difficult to turn.
If your key doesn't work at any point it could be a sign that it was compromised by criminals. If this occurs you must replace the key as quickly as possible in order to stop your car from being stolen. This could also mean that the key cylinder has been damaged, which will require a professional to replace it. In this case, you will likely have to purchase a higher-cost dealer key that is compatible with your car's model.
What is the Alternative?
There are a variety of options for replacing your car keys, but they can be expensive. A locksmith, for instance, will cost more than a dealership but will help you get back on roads faster.
It will be more expensive to call the local garage. The garage is unlikely to have the specialist equipment that an auto-locksmith has. They'll need to purchase it from a specialist.
Certain companies such as AutoZone do offer keys for cars, but they will use generic keys that don't correspond to the original keys. If you decide to go this route, you'll have to bring along your VIN number to enable them to determine the exact type of key that you require.
Another option is to call a roadside assistance service and request them to tow your vehicle to a dealership to get the keys replaced. It may take a few days for them to get the key you require. You could also file an insurance claim through your vehicle insurance provider. However, this can be more costly and you may only be allowed to claim the insurance a certain number of times.
The best method to obtain an alternative car key is to call an auto locksmith as quickly as you can. They'll have the specialist key coding equipment to replace your fob and can usually do it for much less than the dealer. They can also do the job quicker and is a great option for those in urgent need of assistance. The other alternative is to call a roadside assistance company however this could be expensive and you may be waiting for long before they get someone out to you.