What You Need to Know About Key Car Replacement
Losing your car keys could be a stressful experience. There are a variety of alternatives for replacing your keys which can help you get back on the road.
One option is to go to the dealership. It's the most expensive option however, you will receive a working key and fob.
What's the cost?
The cost of replacing keys in your car is contingent on the year, model and make of the vehicle. Some keys for newer cars include transponder chips that requires pairing with an auto locksmith or dealership before they will work. This could increase the cost of the replacement. The type of key can also affect the price. Certain older mechanical keys are cheap to replace, however, more advanced smart keys may need to be reprogrammed.
When determining the price, the first thing to take into consideration is the type of key. Mechanical keys are easy to replace with a locksmith in your neighborhood for less than $50. But, if you have a more advanced key that has a transponder, or key fob to open and start your vehicle it will cost much higher. The transponder as well as the key fob will have to be programmed to work together with specialized equipment that can only be found at a dealer or an auto locksmith.
Key fobs are remotes with electronic controls that can be used to open the doors and start a car. Some key fobs have a display which shows the status 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 it towed to the dealer, and provide proof of ownership papers. The dealer can order a replacement key for you and connect it electronically to your vehicle. This can take some time to complete, which can add to your overall costs.
If your car warranty is still in force, you must be sure to read the conditions and terms to determine what coverage you get 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 cost of replacing or reprogramming your car's fob key. In the end it is one of the best ways to save money on these unexpected costs.
What is the Process?
The particulars of the process of replacing your car's key depend on your specific type of car. If you have mechanical keys that are placed inside the lock and then turned, the process for the key cutter or locksmith will be fairly straightforward. Modern keys, on the other hand, have many more security and convenience features that make them more complex to replace.
For example, the key fobs used in some cars barely look like traditional keys, and they require a special key to activate the doors and start the engine. They are harder to duplicate and might require the assistance of a professional to program them, which could increase the cost.
Thankfully, the most common method of obtaining a low-cost key replacement for your car is by going to your local auto locksmith. They'll have all of the equipment needed for this service, and they can usually get you on your way in a matter of minutes. In addition, roadside assistance can aid in this process too, but they're usually more expensive.
Another option for getting a cheap car key replacement is through your insurance company. auto key replacement offer an add-on to this service, and it's important to read their terms and conditions before making a decision to use this service.
The process is quite easy if you own an older model that has keys made of metal. A locksmith or key cutter is likely to be able copy the original without too much trouble. However, if your car uses a transponder chip in the key, you'll have bring it in to the dealership for a replacement.
To purchase a brand 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 have to program it to work with your vehicle. The keyless entry remote may also need to be reprogrammed, which could be a lengthy procedure based on the level of your vehicle's anti-theft system. Find out if this service is covered by your warranty or insurance.
What's the Time Frame?
If you lose one of your keys and have a spare, you'll be able get it replaced immediately. But what happens if you don't have the original key or a spare? In that situation you'll have to contact the locksmith or a car dealership.
The dealer will give you a programmed key and a new one. The process can take a few weeks. It's dependent on your car's make and model as well as the type of key you own.
A locksmith or hardware shop can copy mechanical keys that are older. They'll need the original key and evidence of ownership, like the title of your vehicle or registration.
You'll need to take your car to the dealer to replace it if you own an older model that has a keyfob. The dealership will have the tools necessary to do this like laser cutting and programming equipment. The dealership will also be able to utilize the vehicle identification numbers (VINs) to determine the type of key your car uses.
Another thing to take into consideration is whether or not your key fob is covered under a warranty or other coverage. You should check your car's warranty insurance policy auto club membership or roadside assistance insurance to see if this is the case.
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 might be time to replace it. This could include visible scratches or corrosion, or a key that is difficult to turn.
If your key suddenly ceases to work it could indicate that it's been compromised. In that case, you'll want to replace it as soon as you can to avoid having your vehicle taken away. This could also mean that the key cylinder is damaged, and will require a professional replacement it. In this scenario you'll have to pay a higher cost for a dealer-level key that matches the specific model of your car.
What is the Alternative?
There are several alternatives to replacing your key, but some of them are more expensive. A locksmith, for example will cost more than a dealership but will get you back on the roads quicker.
You could also call your local garage, but it is going to be more expensive. The garage may not have the specialist key coder that auto locksmiths carry and will have to obtain it from an expert.
If automotive car key replacement interested in trying this option, make sure that you bring the VIN number of your car so that they can identify exactly what kind of key you require. If you're considering this option, make sure that you bring the VIN number of your vehicle to ensure they know the exact type of key you require.
You can also call an emergency roadside service that will tow your car to a dealership for the replacement of keys. It may take some time for them to obtain the key you need. You could also make a claim through your car insurance company. However, this will be more expensive and you may only be allowed to claim the insurance for a limited number of times.
Contacting an auto locksmith is the best method to obtain a new key for your vehicle. They have the specialist equipment required to replace your fob and they can do it at a much lower price than the dealer. They are also able to complete the job more quickly which is ideal if you are in urgent need of assistance. Another option is to contact an emergency roadside assistance service, but this can be expensive and you may have to wait long before they send someone to you.