Car Key Replacements
Replacing keys for your car can be costly and stressful depending on the type of car. It's a smart idea to keep spare keys on hand in case you lose yours.
The car key changed with the evolution of cars. Modern keys have to be programmed to work with the car's immobiliser, normally a job for locksmiths or dealers.
Lost or Stolen Keys
Losing keys to your car is a common enough occurrence. If you are unable to locate your keys in an obvious place, or if they are hidden, you'll need to get a new set. Key replacements for cars aren't as easy as they used to be however there are options for car owners who accidentally lose their keys.
Based on the type of key you own, it could be less expensive to replace it with a locksmith than the car dealership. It is because car dealers charge a premium and often outsource the work to local locksmiths. A mobile locksmith can do the job at a lower cost.
Many people think of traditional keys when they hear the phrase "car key replacement". These traditional keys are not an actual fob, like your smart keys or remote and don't contain a transponder chip in the keys. They are available at all hardware stores and locksmiths for less than $10.
The replacement of keys that have a transponder, also known as a key fob, is more complicated. The dealership that sold you your vehicle will be able to replace the keys, but they may not have one in stock. They'll have to order one from the manufacturer. It could take a couple of days, and the price can be significantly higher.
Local locksmiths may have blank keys and equipment to program these keys for cars. This could save you time and money. Some locksmiths provide mobile service to come and perform the work on site.
Some locksmiths can also offer roadside assistance to people who have locked themselves out of their vehicle and require help to get back inside. This is particularly useful in the event that you've lost your car keys and are unable to turn the ignition. The service will usually include the cost of a callout and labor costs. You can inquire with your vehicle manufacturer or the breakdown service you use to find out more details about what you can expect from them.
Damaged Keys
You'll need to replace or repair your damaged car key fob. This could happen as a result of an accident, break-in, or even normal wear and wear and tear.
A locksmith is the best option to find an alternative key. They can replace or repair your keys, and can also duplicate keys when you do not have one. Some keys are more complex than others. If your key is a Transponder Key, it will need to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This requires special equipment, which is usually only available at the dealership.
If you can open your trunk and doors, but aren't able to start the engine, there might be an issue with the ignition cylinder. Try using an alternate key to see whether it can turn the vehicle on. If not, it's time to contact a locksmith or a dealer.
The most inconvenient of times happen when car key problems occur. Some issues are easier to repair than others.
Remember that all the parts in your car work together. If one component fails, it will cause a domino-effect. For instance, if your key won't turn in the ignition, it may be a problem with your battery. It can be fixed by the replacement battery, however, you'll need to know how to program it for the specific car you have.
A locksmith can assist with this, but it is also important to have the VIN number of your vehicle. This number is found in several places such as on your driver's side dashboard and in the owner's manual. You'll have to note it down so you can give it to the person who will replace your car keys. This information will speed up the process, because it will allow them to get your key in your vehicle as quickly as they can. It also helps prevent the possibility of making an error that could result in more expensive repairs down the road.
Keys missing from the Ignition
A few years ago, losing keys to your car wasn't too much of an issue because there was a chance you had spare keys. Nowadays, cars are more advanced in technology and therefore, they are more difficult to replace. Based on the model of your car and its year, replacing the key can take a few steps and cost a couple hundred dollars or more.
Make sure you have a spare in a safe location at home. However, if you do not have a spare and your ignition is locked, you'll need to call a professional for help. The first thing that you'll need to do is determine which type of key you have. This is crucial because a professional will need to know which key you lost in order to begin the replacement process. Once key replacements for cars have the information, it will be much easier to accelerate the process.
You can have a new key made for less than $10 at a hardware store in the event that you have an old car key that has a simple, double-edged blade. You'll only have supply the model and year of your car, along with proof of ownership for it (your title or registration will suffice). If you lose your key in the ignition, you can get a new one when you provide the locksmith with the key to relock the cylinder. This is typically located underneath the steering column, and is depressable with the cylinder turned to the accessory position.
The technician will need to restore the cylinder's cuts and cut a new key that is compatible to the chip of the cylinder and then program the new key with the computer in your car. This is a complex procedure, but it's the only method to replace a car key that has been kept in the ignition. If your car is new, you'll be required to take it to the dealer to have them replace the key. They are the only ones who can offer you an alternative key that has the required features.
Keyless Entry
In the past when you lost or misplaced your car key you could have locksmiths to create a new one. As automobiles are more technologically advanced, replacing a lost car key can take a few steps and cost several hundred dollars.
Depending on the model and year of your car, there are a variety of different kinds of keys. The most popular ones are a mechanical or standard key and a transponder one, a key fob and an intelligent key.
A key with a chip transponder is more secure than a conventional car key, because it is a unique number that your vehicle recognizes. Locksmiths will not only need to cut a new key but also program it for your vehicle. It's best to bring your vehicle to a dealer for reprogramming the key if you've lost it.
Some car keys come with remote control devices that allow you unlock and start your car from the distance. These types of keys are more expensive to replace as they require more advanced programming that only a dealership can perform. Luckily, the majority of these keys can be reset if they stop working, so do this before you shell out for the replacement.
Certain modern cars have keys that look more like fobs. They come with buttons on one side that you can press to lock and unlock your car. These keys are referred to as "smart" and "keyless entry" and can be costly to replace. It is important to keep in mind that most of these keys are manufactured by the manufacturer of your car, so if you lose one then you'll need to return to the dealer to get it replaced.
You'll need to record your VIN if it's possible to find someone to make your car keys. This number is typically stamped on the metal plate within the door jamb or on your dashboard. You can use this number should you need to retrieve your key in the future, either through your warranty or car insurance.