How to Get a Replacement Key For Car
The cost of a replacement for your car key depends on the type of key that you have. You can contact an expert locksmith or visit your local dealership.
The dealer is your best bet for an ordinary or transponder key. They can utilize your VIN to locate the code and then pair your key with your vehicle.
Lost Keys
The best method to avoid the anxiety of losing car keys is to make copies in advance and store it somewhere safe. Unfortunately, that isn't always possible and the best thing to do is to invest in the key-finder tag or one of the Bluetooth-powered car key finders that are available on the market. This will give you more time to search (they are typically located) or at a minimum, obtain a new key from your dealer.
If you have an old-fashioned metal key the best bet is to call your local locksmith, who will drive to the location of your car and make a new one on the spot, even when they don't have the original. You will be charged around $20 for a replacement car key.
Contact your dealer if your car is equipped with transponders. The key has an embedded chip which transmits an unique security code to the vehicle whenever it's close. It helps protect your vehicle from theft as well as other security threats. The dealer must reprogram your new key in order to make it work properly. This process can take several hours and cost up to $200.
Certain newer vehicles have key fobs that lock and unlock the door, as well as control other features of your car. They are extremely useful, but they can be a pain to lose! You can buy a replacement fob for your car on the internet, but it could cost more than if you visited the local locksmith, and they'll have to program the fob to be compatible with your specific vehicle.
You can also ask your vehicle dealer to replace a lost fob however, you'll need have proof of ownership and it will cost more than if you had gone to an automotive locksmith. However, they have access to the same database as the manufacturer, which makes it impossible to obtain a new key from them. If you do opt for this option it is important to compare the costs of your local locksmith to theirs.
Broken Keys
If the key you have lost is broken inside the lock, it could be a real pain. There are solutions to fix the issue without buying a new one.
First, take out the broken piece using needle-nosed pliers. They are available in the form of pliers in the tool section of many hardware stores. You can also make use of a pair of tweezers that have an opening that is big enough to accommodate the blade of the key.
Be careful not to exert too excessive pressure. Inflicting too much pressure will only cause the crack to get worse. Use a small amount of lubricant on the key's end to reduce friction while inserting it into a lock. You can buy an oil spray designed specifically designed for car keys or apply WD-40 to the end of the key.
A locksmith or a dealer in vehicles can also create keys for replacement. You will need to present an acceptable photo ID and proof of ownership in order for the dealer to issue an alternative key. The dealer will also need to connect the computer chip to your vehicle, which can take a few weeks.
One final thing to remember is that certain keys require coding to work with your vehicle. If your key failed to work when you were trying to start or open your car then you'll need to bring it back to the dealer to be coded.
In general the cost of having the key replaced varies by model, but is typically in the range of $100-$200. It is easy and inexpensive for most people to go to their vehicle dealer. You might want to visit the manufacturer's dealership if you have a specialty or luxury vehicle. In these instances you'll require your vehicle to be towed to the dealer and prove ownership before they issue an alternative key. In some cases, this is covered under the warranty for your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
If your car was manufactured in the past 20 years or so, chances are it comes with a transponder key (also known as a "chip" key). The key's head is equipped with a transponder in it. When the key is inserted into the ignition an antenna ring emits radio frequency energy. The chip then responds with an identification code. The message is then 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 doesn't exist, the immobilizer will deactivate and prevent the vehicle from beginning. This is why a transponder key helps to eliminate car theft and provides an additional layer of security. It is also the reason why it's essential to have your car keys replaced by an experienced locksmith who is familiar with working with various auto manufacturers' anti-theft systems.
A lot of people believe that the only way to obtain a new transponder keys is through their local car dealer. While it's true that the dealership does have the necessary equipment however, a professional locksmith is able to make a transponder key for much less and offer a more convenient service overall.
Beishir Lock and Security offers various transponder key options for a wide range of vehicles. We can program and replace your existing transponder, remote flip key, or FOBIK key. We can even take care of making a brand-new key from scratch for your vehicle if necessary.
It's important to know that if your car currently operated using an untransponderized key, it will not be feasible to upgrade to a transponder one since the immobilizer in the car's built-in system does not permit it. If you're concerned about your car being stolen, it's recommended you purchase a transponder.
When it comes to securing your automobile, it's important to select the appropriate kind of lock. key replacement car can assist you with any type of lock but should you require an extra level of protection then it might be worth investing in transponder keys to safeguard your vehicle from theft.
Remote Fobs
Many cars are now equipped with remote fobs that allow drivers to open trunks, doors, and tailgates, and some can even start the vehicle. These small wireless devices transmit radio signals to the vehicle and are powered by batteries. If the battery in the fob dies the device could become ineffective.
Most of these small remotes come with easy-to-open casings. Once you can pry the case open, you'll need to find an appropriate replacement battery that will fit in the space provided. Fortunately, most of these batteries are readily accessible at auto parts stores as well as some supermarkets.
Once you've replaced the battery, you'll need to rebuild the fob that holds the key. Using a flat blade screwdriver to gently pry the fob open in several locations to prevent breaking the shell. The fob should be resnapped and test each button. If all is well then you're done!
However, if the fob still isn't functioning it could be more serious than a defective battery. It could be that it has lost its programming and needs to be restored by the locksmith or dealer.
Most fobs have a button that may be used to reset their programming. It's generally a quick process, but it can vary by vehicle make and model. The key fob must be "programmed again" to transmit the digital identity code to the car's onboard computers. This procedure differs for each car model and year. It usually involves holding buttons or levers while engaging the power.
Certain retailers, including some automotive parts stores and locksmiths can program aftermarket keys purchased on the internet. Yu from CR warns that these devices can be difficult to fix and may not perform as expected. If you decide to purchase remote keys from a third-party vendor ensure that the seller is reputable and read the fine print to determine whether the fob is required to be programmed by a dealer. Some retailers, for example some Audi dealerships, require you to visit the dealer to have a third-party fob programmed.