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What You Need to Know About Key Car Replacement
The loss of your car key can be an incredibly painful experience. There are several alternatives for replacing your keys that can assist you in getting back on the road.
You can also visit the dealer. This is the most expensive option, but it comes with a functioning key as well as a fob.
What is the price?
The cost of replacing your car keys is contingent upon the year, make and model of your vehicle. Some keys for newer cars include transponder chips that must be paired by an auto locksmith or dealer before they will work. This can increase the cost of replacement. The kind of key is also a factor in the cost. Certain older mechanical keys can be replaced inexpensively and more advanced smart keys may need to be reprogrammed or even completely rebuilt.
When determining the price first thing you should take into consideration is the type of key. Mechanical keys are easy to replace with a locksmith in your area for less than $50. If you've got more sophisticated keys that has a transponder, or an electronic key fob that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle and start your vehicle, the cost will be significantly higher. The transponder and the key fob will need to be programmed to link up and require specialized equipment that can only be found at a dealership or auto locksmith.
Key fobs are remotes with electronic controls that can be used to unlock the doors and start the car. Certain key fobs come with an indicator that shows the current status of your vehicle. They can be a bit more expensive than a traditional key, with some costing up to $500.
If you lose your key, you'll need it tow away to the dealer and present proof of ownership papers. The dealer can make a replacement key for you and pair it electronically with your vehicle. This process can take several days, which will increase the cost.
If you have a warranty on your car that is still in force take a close look at the terms of the warranty to see what coverage it offers for lost keys or fobs. For example, some companies provide a breakdown protection plan that includes a key replacement policy which will pay for the expense of replacing or reprogramming your car's key fob. This is the best way to save money on unexpected expenses.
What is the Process?
The procedure 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 turns it, the procedure is fairly easy for a locksmith or a key cutter. Modern keys come with more security and convenience features that can make them more difficult to replace.
Certain key fobs are so different from traditional metal keys that they require a different key to open the doors and start up the engine. These are more difficult to duplicate and might require a specialist to program them, which may increase the cost.
Fortunately, the most frequent way to get an inexpensive key car replacement is by visiting your local auto locksmith. They'll have all of the equipment needed to perform this service and will usually get you to your destination in just a few minutes. In addition, roadside assistance can help with this, but they're typically more expensive.
Another option to get an inexpensive replacement for your car keys is through your insurance provider. Some insurance companies offer a specific add-on for this purpose, and it's important to verify their terms and conditions before choosing this option.
The process is fairly simple if you own an older model with a metal key. A key cutter or locksmith can duplicate the original with no difficulty. If auto car key replacement is equipped with a transponder inside the key you'll need to take it to the dealer for a replacement.
To order a new car key, the dealership will require your vehicle identification number and the driver's license copy. Once they have received the key, they'll need to program it to work with your vehicle. The keyless entry remote needs to be programmed. This could be a lengthy process based on how complex your vehicle's antitheft system. It is also important to see whether this service is covered under your warranty or insurance policy.
What is the Time Frame?
If you lose one of your keys and you have a spare you'll be able to get it replaced right away. What happens if you don't have the original or spare key? In this scenario, you will need to find a dealer or locksmith.
The dealer will be able to provide you with a brand new key and a programed fob. The process could take several weeks. It depends on the make and model of your car and the type of key you own.
A hardware or locksmith shop can duplicate keys for mechanical ones that are older. They'll need the original key and some evidence of ownership, like the title of your vehicle or registration.
If you own a brand new car that uses the key fob, you'll have go to the dealer to get it replaced. The dealership has the necessary equipment for this, such as laser cutting machines and programming machines. They'll also be able to utilize the vehicle identification number (VIN) to determine what kind of key your car uses.
A warranty or other coverage may cover your key fob. You should check your car's warranty insurance policy or auto club membership or roadside assistance coverage to see if this is the case.
The Cost of the Replacement Key
If your key has been used so often that it's starting to show signs of wear and tear, it might be time for a replacement. This could include visible scratches or the appearance of rust, or a lock that is hard to turn.
If your key isn't working at any point, it could be a sign it's been compromised by criminals. If this happens, you should replace the key as fast as possible in order to avoid your vehicle being stolen. This could also mean the key cylinder is damaged, and will require a professional to repair it. In this scenario, you'll likely require a greater cost for a dealer-level key that will match the car's model.
What is the Alternative?
There are a few alternatives to replacing your key, but some of them can be more expensive. Locksmiths, for instance, will cost more than a dealership, but it will get you back on the roads quicker.
It's more expensive to contact the local garage. The garage won't have the specialist equipment that an auto-locksmith owns. They'll have to purchase it from an expert.
Certain companies such as AutoZone do offer car key replacement services however, they'll use generic parts that don't match your original keys. If you decide to take this route, you will be required to provide your VIN number so that they can determine the exact type of key that you require.
Another option is to call an emergency roadside assistance service and request them to tow your vehicle to the dealership to have the keys changed. They might need to order the type of key that you need, which could delay your vehicle. You may also file a claim through your car insurance provider. However, this could cost more and you might only be allowed to claim the insurance for a specific number of times.
Contacting a locksmith for your car is the best method to obtain a new key for your car. They'll have the specialized key coding equipment required to replace your fob and will usually charge much less than the dealer. They are also able to complete the job quicker and is a great option when you're in a hurry. Another option is to contact an emergency roadside service company however this could be expensive and you may have to wait long before they send someone to you.