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What You Need to Know About Key Car Replacement
The loss of your car key is a terribly painful experience. There are a variety of options for key replacements that can help get you back on the road.
Another option is to go to the dealership. This is the most expensive option however, it will provide you with a working key and fob.
What's the Cost?
The cost of replacing the key in your car is contingent on the year, model, and make of your vehicle. Certain models of newer vehicles come with transponder chips in the keys that must be linked to the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith prior to their work, and this can make a difference in the total cost of replacement. The kind of key is also a factor in the cost. Some older mechanical keys can be replaced inexpensively and more advanced smart keys might need to be reprogrammed or completely rebuilt.
When determining the cost the first thing to be aware of is the kind of key. Mechanical keys are simple and easy to replace, and they can be repaired by a locksmith in your neighborhood for less than $50. If you own a more advanced key that makes use of transponders or key fobs to open and start your car, the cost will be more expensive. The transponder as well as the key fob will need to be programmed to work together and require specialized equipment that is only available at a dealership or auto locksmith.
Key fobs can be used as remotes for electronic devices to open doors and start cars. Some key fobs feature an indicator that shows the current status of your vehicle. These can be a little more expensive than a standard key, and some can cost up to $500.
You will need to tow your lost key to the dealer, and show evidence of ownership. They will then be able order you a replacement key and then electronically link it with your vehicle. It can take some time to complete, which will increase the overall cost.
If your car warranty is still in effect, you should carefully read the conditions and terms to find out the coverage you will receive for lost keys or fobs. Some companies offer a breakdown cover plan that provides key replacement insurance. This will help you pay for the cost of replacing or reprogramming your car fob. Ultimately, this is one of the best ways to save money on these unexpected expenses.
What's the Process?
The process of replacing a key in your car is dependent on the kind of car you have. If you own mechanical keys that are put into the lock and then turned, the procedure for the key cutter or locksmith should be relatively easy. Modern keys come with more security and convenience features that can make them harder to replace.
For instance keys that are used in some vehicles barely resemble traditional metal keys, and require a unique key to unlock the doors and start the engine. These are more difficult to duplicate and may require a professional to program them, which could increase the cost.
Thankfully, the most common method to obtain a cheap key car replacement is by going to your local auto locksmith. They'll have the necessary equipment for this task and will usually get you back on the road in just a few minutes. Roadside assistance is also available, but are generally more expensive.
Another option to get an inexpensive replacement for your car keys is through your insurance company. auto key replacement and terms of your insurance company prior to selecting this option.
The process is relatively simple if you own an older model with an iron key. A key cutter or locksmith should be able to copy the original key without much trouble. If your car has transponders in the key, you'll have to bring it to the dealer for replacement.
The dealer will need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN) as well as the copy of your driver's license to obtain an additional key for your vehicle. When they receive the new key, they'll have to program it so that it works with your vehicle. The keyless entry remote will need to be reprogrammed which is a long procedure based on the complexity of your vehicle's anti-theft system. Find out if this service is covered under your warranty or insurance.
What's the Time Frame?
If you have a spare key, and you lose the original, you can get it replaced immediately. But what if you don't have the original key or spare? In that situation you'll need to call a locksmith or a car dealership.
The dealer will provide you with a programed key and a brand new one. The process can take a few days. It is contingent on the model and make of your car, as well as what type of key you have.
If you have older mechanical keys, an establishment like a hardware or locksmith will be able to copy keys for you. They'll require the original keys and some evidence of ownership, such as the title of your vehicle or registration.
If you own a brand new vehicle that has an electronic key fob, you'll have to go to the dealership to have it replaced. The dealership will have the equipment necessary to do this like laser cutting and programming machines. auto car key replacement will also be able use the car identification numbers (VINs) to determine the kind of key your car utilizes.
A warranty or other coverage may cover your key fob. Check your car's warranty, insurance policy or auto club membership or roadside assistance insurance to see if this is the situation.
The Cost of the Replacement Key
It could be time to replace your key if it's showing signs of wear. This can include visible rust or scratches or even a squishy key that is difficult to turn.
If your key doesn't work all of a sudden it could be an indication that it's been compromised by criminals. If this occurs you must replace the key as quickly as possible to stop your car from being stolen. It could also be that the key cylinder has been damaged and will need to be replaced by an expert. If this is the case you'll probably have to pay more for a dealer-level key that matches your car's model.
What is the Alternative?
There are a variety of options for replacing your car keys, however they can be expensive. For instance locksmiths generally cost more than a dealership however they'll be faster at getting you back on the road.
It's more expensive to contact the local garage. The garage may not have the key coder that auto locksmiths carry, so they will need to purchase it from an expert.
Certain companies such as AutoZone provide car key replacement services however they'll make use of generic parts that won't match the original keys. If you're interested in trying this option, ensure that you bring the VIN number of your car so that they can identify exactly what kind of key you need.
Another option is to call an emergency roadside assistance service and have them tow your vehicle to the dealership to get the keys replaced. It could take a while for them to get the key you require. You could also file a claim with your insurance company for your vehicle but this will usually be more expensive and comes with an upper limit on how many times you can file a claim for the coverage for.
Contacting a locksmith for your car is the best method to get a new car key for your car. They'll have the specialist key coding equipment needed to replace your fob and typically can do it for a lot less than the dealer. They will also be able to do the job faster, which is important when you're in a hurry. You can also contact a roadside service, but it could be expensive and take a long time to reach someone who can help you.