How to Get a Replacement Key For Car
The cost of replacing a car key depends on the type of key you have. You can call a locksmith or visit your local dealership.
If you own a basic key or transponder, a dealer is your best choice. They can use your VIN to locate the code and connect your key to your vehicle.
Lost Keys
To avoid the stress of losing your car keys, make an extra copy and store it in a secure location. Unfortunately, that's not always feasible so the next best thing to do is to purchase a key-finder tag and/or use one of the Bluetooth-powered car key finders that are available on the market. This will give you a couple of days to search for your keys thoroughly (they typically come up) or at the very minimum you can get a replacement from your dealership.
If you have an old-fashioned metal key, the best bet is to contact your local locksmith who can drive to the location of your car and create a replacement immediately even in the absence of the original. The cost is around $20 for a replacement car key.
If your car was built with a transponder key you must contact your dealer to get it replaced. This type of key includes an embedded chip that sends an individual code to your vehicle whenever it's close by which helps to keep your vehicle safe from theft and other security threats. Your dealer will need to reprogram the key for it to function correctly. This process can take several hours and cost around $200.
Some modern cars come with key fobs that lock and unlock the car's door, as well as control other functions of your vehicle. These are convenient, but they can be difficult to locate if you have lost them! You can purchase a replacement fob for your car on the internet, but it could cost more than your local locksmith, and they will need to program the fob to fit your specific vehicle.
You can also ask your car dealer to replace your lost key however, you'll need provide proof of ownership and it will cost more than if been to an automotive locksmith. They do have access the same database as manufacturers which means it's not difficult to get an alternative key. If you do go this route it's crucial to compare the prices of the locksmith you have in your area to theirs.
Broken Keys
It can be a real issue if the key you have broken in the lock. However, there are solutions to solve this issue without having to purchase an entirely new key.
First, try to remove the broken piece using the needle-nose pliers. These kinds of pliers in the tool section of most hardware stores. Alternatively, you can also use a pair of tweezers with a a natural opening wide enough to accommodate the key blade.
Be careful not to exert too much pressure. Too much pressure will only cause the break to get more severe. Apply a small amount of lubricant on the key's end to decrease friction when inserting it into a lock. You can buy a lubricant spray designed specifically for car keys or simply coat the end of the key with WD-40.
Another option is to visit a locksmith or vehicle dealership and have a new key made. However, you will need to present a valid photo ID and proof of ownership before the dealer is able to issue a new key. The dealer will also have to pair the chip of your computer to your car, which could take several weeks.
One last thing to remember is that some keys require coding before they will work with your vehicle. So, if your key broke as you were trying to open or start the vehicle, you will need to return it to the dealership to have it coded.
In general the cost of having keys replaced varies from one brand to the next make, but it is typically in the range of $100-$200. The majority of people go to their vehicle dealer, because it's a simple and cost-effective process. It is possible to visit the dealership of the manufacturer in the case of a unique or high-end vehicle. In these instances you might need to have the vehicle tow and provide proof of ownership to the dealer before they can issue the new key. In certain instances this is covered by the warranty for your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are a common feature in automobiles manufactured in the past 20 years. The key's head includes a transponder within it. When the key is inserted into the ignition an antenna ring emits radio frequency energy. This chip then responds with an identification code. This message is relayed to the vehicle's immobilizer, and If the correct code is found then the engine will be able to start.
If the correct code isn't present, the immobilizer will disarm and prevent the engine from starting. resources is how transponder keys help stop car theft and offers an additional layer of security. It is also essential to replace your keys by a locksmith who has expertise working with anti-theft devices of various auto manufacturers.
Many people believe that the dealer is the only place where they can purchase a transponder key. While dealers do have the necessary equipment but a professional locksmith can create a transponder key much less and provide more convenient service overall.
Beishir Lock and Security offers various transponder key options for a wide range of vehicles. If you own a regular transponder key remote flip key or FOBIK chip key, we can replace and program it for you. We even have the capability of making a brand-new key from scratch for your vehicle in the event of need.
It is important to know that if you're currently using a car key that is not transponder-compatible it's not possible to upgrade to a new transponder key because the built-in anti-theft system won't allow this. If you're concerned about your car getting stolen, it's recommended you purchase the transponder.
It is essential to select the best lock for your vehicle in terms of security. A locksmith can help you with any kind of lock however should you require an extra level of protection then it may be worth purchasing a transponder key to protect your vehicle from theft.
Remote Fobs
Many cars have remotes that allow drivers to open doors, trunks, and tailgates. Some can even start the vehicle. These tiny wireless devices communicate with the vehicle using radio signals and operate under the power of a battery. However, if the fob's battery dies it could cause the device to become useless.
Most of these small remotes come with casings that can be opened easily. After you have opened the case, you'll have to locate the correct replacement battery. Fortunately, the majority of these batteries are readily found in auto parts stores and some supermarkets.
After you've replaced the battery, you'll have to put back together the fob for the key. To avoid damage to the shell, pull the key fob open at several points with a screwdriver that has a flat blade. Then, you can snap the fob back together and check its buttons. If everything works then you're done!
If the fob is still not working, the problem could be more severe than a bad battery. It could be that it has lost its programming and needs to be restored by a locksmith or dealer.
The fobs typically come with a button that can be hit to reset their programming. It's usually a simple process, but it can vary by vehicle make and model. The key fob needs to be "programmed again" to send the digital identity code to the car's onboard computers. This process varies based on car model and year however, it is generally done by activating the power of the car (often multiple times) while pressing various levers or buttons.
Certain retailers, including some automotive parts stores and locksmiths, will program keys from aftermarket purchased on the internet. Yu from CR warns that these fobs can be difficult to repair and could not work properly. If you decide to buy a remote fob from an outside vendor be sure to choose a reputable seller and check the fine print for details on whether the fob requires dealer-level programming or not. Certain retailers, for instance, Audi dealerships, require that you visit them to have an external fob programmed.