What You Need to Know About Key Car Replacement
The loss of your car keys is a terribly frustrating experience. Luckily, there are several alternatives for replacement keys for your car to help you get back on the road.
You can also go to the dealer. This is the most expensive, but it will provide you with a working key and fob.
What is the cost?
The cost to replace keys in your car depends on the year, model, and make of your vehicle. Some keys for newer models include transponder chips that requires pairing by an auto locksmith or dealership before they can function. This could increase the cost of replacement. The type of key can be a factor in the cost. Certain older mechanical keys are inexpensive to replace, however, more advanced smart keys may need to be reprogrammed.
The kind of key is the primary factor to consider when determining the price. Mechanical keys are simple to replace by a locksmith within your area for less than $50. But, if you have more sophisticated keys that has a transponder, or an electronic key fob that allows you to unlock and start your car, the price will be much higher. The transponder and key fob will need to be programmed to work together with specialized equipment that can only be found at a dealer or auto locksmith.
Key fobs are electronic remote controls that can be used to open the doors and start a car. Some key fobs feature a display which shows the status of your vehicle. Some keys cost as much as $500.
You'll have to tow your key that was lost to the dealer and show proof of ownership. The dealer will be able to make a replacement key for you and then pair it electronically to your vehicle. This process could take a few days, which can add cost to your bill.
If you have a warranty on your car that is still active take a close look at the terms to determine what coverage it offers for lost fobs or keys. For example, some companies provide a breakdown protection plan that includes a key replacement policy which will pay for the expense of replacing or reprogramming your car fob. This is the most efficient way to save money when it comes to unexpected costs.
What's the Process?
The procedure for replacing a key for your vehicle is contingent on the kind of car you have. If you have an older mechanical key that inserts into the lock and then turns it, the process should be relatively easy for a locksmith, or a key cutter. Modern keys have more security and convenience features that can make them harder to replace.
Some key fobs are so different from conventional metal keys that they require a different key to open the doors and to start the engine. These are more difficult to duplicate and might require a professional to program them, which can increase the cost.
Fortunately, the most popular way to get an inexpensive key car replacement is by going to your local auto locksmith. They'll have the necessary equipment to perform this service and will usually get you back on the road within a matter of minutes. Roadside assistance services are available, but they are typically more expensive.
You can also purchase an inexpensive replacement key for your car by contacting your insurance company. Some insurance companies offer a specific add-on specifically for this purpose, and it's important to verify their terms and conditions prior to choosing this option.
The process is fairly simple if you own an older model that has an iron key. A key cutter or locksmith should be able to copy the original without much difficulty. If your car has transponders in the key, you will need to take it to the dealer for replacement.
To purchase a new car key, the dealer will need your vehicle's identification number and an original driver's licence. Once they have received the key, they'll have to program it to work with your vehicle. The keyless entry remote should be programmed. This can be a long process depending on how complex your vehicle's antitheft device is. 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 key, you can have it replaced immediately. What happens if you don't have the original key or spare? In that case you'll need to call a locksmith or a car dealership.
The dealer will provide you with a brand new key and a programmed fob. The process can take couple of days. It depends on the make and model of your vehicle and the type of key you have.
If you have older mechanical keys, an establishment like a hardware or locksmith will be able to copy them for you. They'll require the original keys and some evidence of ownership, for example your car's title or registration.
If types of car keys own a brand new vehicle that has a key fob, you'll have to go to the dealership to get it replaced. The dealership will have the equipment for this, including laser cutting machines and programming machines. They'll also be able utilize the vehicle identification number (VIN) to determine the kind of key your car uses.
Another thing to consider is whether or the key fob you have is covered under an insurance policy or warranty. Find out if your key fob is covered by a warranty, an insurance policy, membership to an auto club or roadside assistance.
The 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 can include visible scratches or rust or even a sticky key that is difficult to turn.
If your key stops working suddenly it could be a sign it was compromised by criminals. In that situation, you'll need to replace it as soon as possible to avoid having your vehicle taken away. It could also mean that the key cylinder is damaged, and will require a professional replacement it. In this case, you'll likely need to pay a higher cost for a key from a dealership that will match the specific model of your car.
What's the alternative?
There are many alternatives to replacing your key however, some of them may be more expensive. For instance, a locksmith will typically cost more than a dealership but they'll be faster in getting you back on the road.
It is more expensive to contact the local garage. The garage might not have the key coder that an auto locksmith has and will have to get it from a specialist.
Some companies like AutoZone offer keys for cars however they'll make use of generic parts that won't match your original keys. If you're considering this method, make sure that you have the VIN number of your vehicle so that they can identify precisely what kind of key you require.
You can also contact an emergency roadside service to take your car to a dealership for the replacement of the keys. They might need to order the type of key that you need, which could cause delays. You can also make claims through your car insurance company. However, this can cost more and you may only be able to claim the cover a certain number of times.
The best way to obtain an alternative car key is to call an auto locksmith as soon as possible. They have the specialist equipment required to replace your fob, and they'll be able to complete the job at a cheaper cost than the dealer. They'll also be able do the job faster and efficiently, which is essential for those who are in a hurry. Another option is to contact a roadside assistance company however this could be costly and you might be waiting for some time before they send someone to you.