What You Need to Know About Key Car Replacement
Losing 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 however, you will receive a working key and fob.
What is the cost?
The cost to replace keys in your car is contingent on the model, year and make of the vehicle. Certain keys for cars that are newer include transponder chips that require pairing by an auto locksmith or dealer before they can function. This could increase the cost of the replacement. The type of keys used can also affect the price. Keys that are older mechanical models are relatively inexpensive to replace however, more advanced smart keys may need to be programmed.
The type of key is the first factor to take into account when determining the price. Mechanical keys are easy to replace by 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 car, the price will be more expensive. The transponder needs to be linked up with the key fob, which is a special equipment that can only be obtained from an auto locksmith or a dealership.
Key fobs can serve as electronic remote controls to open doors and begin cars. Some have an LCD that displays the status of your vehicle. These can be a little more expensive than a conventional key, with some running up to $500.
You will need to tow your lost key to the dealer and present evidence of ownership. They will then be able to issue you a replacement key and then electronically link it with your vehicle. This process can take several days, which can add cost to your bill.
If you have a warranty on your car that is still in effect 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 comes with a key replacement policy. This will allow you to pay for the cost of replacing or reprogramming your car's keyfob. In the end this is among the most effective ways to save money on these unexpected expenses.
What's the Process?
The process of replacing a key for your vehicle is contingent on the kind of car you own. If you have an older mechanical key that inserts itself into the lock and then turns it, the procedure is fairly easy for a locksmith or a key cutter. Modern keys, on the other hand they have a variety of security and convenience features that could make them more difficult to replace.
For example, the key fobs that are used in some vehicles barely seem like the traditional metal keys, and require a unique key to open the doors and start the engine. They are harder to duplicate and might require a professional to program them, which may increase the cost.
Thankfully, the most common method to obtain a cheap key replacement for your car is by going to your local auto locksmith. They'll have the tools required to perform this service and will usually get you back on track within a few short minutes. Alternatively, roadside assistance services can help with this, but they're generally more expensive.
You can also get an inexpensive replacement key for your car by contacting your insurance company. Review the terms and conditions of your insurance provider before making a decision about this service.
If you have an older model with an old-fashioned metal key, the process is fairly straightforward. Locksmiths or key cutters can copy the original key with ease. If your car has transponders in the key, you will need to bring it to the dealer for a replacement.
The dealership must have your vehicle identification number (VIN) as well as the copy of your driver's license in order to order an additional key for your car. After they receive the key, they will need to program it so that it works with your vehicle. The keyless entry remote must be programmed. This can be a lengthy process based on how complex your vehicle's antitheft device is. Make sure that this service is covered under your warranty or insurance.
What is cost for car key replacement ?
If you have a spare key and you lose your original key, you can get it replaced immediately. But what if you don't have the original key or a spare? In this case you'll need to call the locksmith or a car dealership.
The dealer can give you a programmed key and a new one. The process could take several weeks. It depends on the make and model of your car, as well as what type of key you own.
A hardware shop or locksmith can duplicate keys for mechanical ones that are older. The original key, along with proof of ownership such a the registration or title of your car will be required.
You'll need to take your vehicle to a dealer to replace it if it's an older model that uses a keyfob. The dealership will have the equipment necessary to do this including laser cutting and programming equipment. The dealership will also be able use the VINs of the vehicle (VINs) to determine which type of key your car makes use of.
Another thing to think about is whether or whether your key fob is covered under warranties or other coverage. Examine your car's warranty, insurance policy, auto club membership, or roadside assistance coverage to determine if this is the situation.
The cost of replacing a key
If your key has been used for so long that it's showing signs of wear and tear, it may be time for a replacement. This could include visible scratches or corrosion, 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. In that case, you'll want to replace it as soon as possible to avoid having your vehicle stolen. It could be that the key cylinder has been damaged and will need to be replaced by a professional. In this case you'll have to pay a higher cost for a dealer-level key that is compatible with the car's model.
What's the Alternative?
There are many alternatives to replacing your key however, some of them are more expensive. Locksmiths, for instance is more expensive than a dealership but will get you back on the roads more quickly.
It is more expensive to contact your local garage. The garage may not have the specialist key coder that an auto locksmith has, so they will need to purchase it from an expert.
Some companies like AutoZone provide car key replacement services, but they will use generic keys that don't correspond to the original keys. If you choose to go this route, you'll have to bring along your VIN number to enable them to determine the specific type of key you require.
Another option is to contact an assistance line for roadside emergencies and request them to tow your vehicle to the dealership to have the keys changed. It may take a few days for them to get the key you require. You could also make a claim through your car insurance provider but this will usually be more expensive and have an upper limit on how many times you can file a claim for the coverage for.
The best way to get an alternative car key is to call an auto locksmith as quickly as you can. They have the equipment required to replace your fob, and they'll perform the task at a cheaper cost than the dealer. They can also complete the job more quickly, which is great if you are in urgent need of assistance. Another option is to call an emergency roadside assistance service however this could be expensive and you may have to wait some time before they arrive at your location.