How to Get a Replacement Key For Car
When it's time to get a replacement key for your car the
cost for car key replacement will depend on which kind of key you have. You can choose to call an locksmith or visit your local dealership.
The dealer is your best option for an ordinary or transponder key. They can use your VIN to retrieve the code and pair your key with your vehicle.
Lost Keys
The best method to avoid the anxiety of losing car keys is to create copies in advance and keep it somewhere safe. If that's not feasible the next best option is to buy a key-finder tag or one of the Bluetooth car key finders that are available. This gives you a couple of days to search thoroughly (they generally come up) or at the very minimum, to get an exchange from your dealer.
If you have an old-fashioned metal key, the best option is to contact your local locksmith, who can drive to the location of your car and create a new key immediately, even if they don't have the original. The cost is around $20 for a new traditional car key.
If your car was built with a transponder key you should contact your dealer to have it replaced. This kind of key has an embedded chip that sends an individual code to your vehicle when it is near, helping to keep the car secure from theft and other security threats. The dealer will have to change the code of your new key to ensure it will function properly. This procedure can take several hours and cost around $200.
Some newer vehicles include key fobs that lock and unlock your car's door, as well as control other features of your vehicle. These are very convenient, but can be a pain to lose! You can purchase a
replacement car key fob on the internet, but it could cost you more than if you went to the local locksmith, and they'll have to program the fob to be compatible with your specific vehicle.
You could also visit your car dealer and request for the replacement of the lost fob. However, you'll be required to prove ownership. The cost will be higher than if it was done by an automotive locksmith. However, they have access to the same database as the manufacturer, which makes it impossible to get a new key from them. Compare the costs of locksmiths in your area with those of the manufacturer if you opt to do this.
Broken Keys
If your key is damaged in the lock, it can be a major pain. There are ways to fix this problem without the expense of buying a new key.
The first step is to remove the broken piece using the needle-nose pliers. These pliers can be found in the tool section of many hardware stores. You can also get the tweezers in a pair that has a natural opening large enough to accommodate the blade of the key.
Be careful not to exert too excessive pressure. A lot of pressure will only cause the break to become worse. Try to use a little oil on the tip of the key to reduce friction when putting it into the lock. You can purchase a lubricant spray made specifically designed for keys for cars, or you can simply apply WD-40 to the end of the key.
A car dealer or
locksmith car key replacement cost can also make an alternative key. You'll need proof of identity and proof of ownership for the dealer to issue an alternative key. They will also have to pair the new computer chip with your vehicle, which can take some time.
One last thing to remember is that some keys require coding in order to work with your vehicle. If your key was damaged while you were trying to start or open the vehicle, you will need to return it to the dealer in order to be coded.
The cost of replacing a key differs dependent on the type of vehicle however, it is typically between $100-$200. It's easy and affordable for most people to go to their vehicle dealer. It is possible to visit the manufacturer's dealership if you have a specialty or high-end vehicle. In these situations you may have to have the vehicle towed and present proof of ownership to the dealer before they can issue the new key. In some cases this is covered by the warranty of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are commonly found in automobiles manufactured in the last 20 years. A transponder chip is embedded inside the head of your
car key replacement's key and when it's inserted into your ignition the antenna ring transmits an explosion of radio frequency energy to the chip. The chip responds by generating an identification code. The message is transmitted to the vehicle's immobilizer and, if it receives the correct code the engine will begin to run.
If the correct code is not present the immobilizer will be disarmed and stop the engine from beginning. This is how transponder keys help eliminate car theft and provides an additional layer of security. It's also the reason why it's essential to get your
car replacement keys near me keys replaced by a professional locksmith who has experience working with different auto manufacturers' anti-theft systems.
Many people believe that the dealer is the only place they can purchase a transponder key. While dealers do have the necessary equipment however, a professional locksmith is able to create a transponder key much less and offer a more convenient service overall.
Beishir Lock and Security offers an array of transponder keys options for a wide variety of vehicles. If you own a regular transponder key remote flip key or FOBIK chip key we can change it and program it for you. We also have the option of creating a new key from scratch for your vehicle if necessary.
It is important to be aware that if you're using a non-transponder car key it's not possible to upgrade to a new transponder model because the anti-theft system won't allow this. If you're concerned about your car being stolen, it is highly recommended that you invest in a transponder key.
When it comes to the security of your automobile, it's important to select the appropriate type of lock. A locksmith can assist you with any type of lock. But, if you're looking to add a layer of security to your vehicle, consider investing in a key transponder.
Remote Fobs
Many cars have remotes that allow drivers to open doors, trunks and tailgates. Some remotes even allow you to start the vehicle. These tiny wireless devices transmit radio signals to the vehicle and are powered by batteries. If the fob's battery is depleted it could cause the device to become useless.
A majority of these small remotes come with easy-to-open casings. Once you can pry the case open, you'll need to find a replacement battery that fits within the space available. Most of these batteries can be found at auto parts stores as well as some supermarkets.
Reassembling the key fob is required after replacing the battery. To avoid damage to the shell, pull the key fob open in several places with a screwdriver that has a flat blade. Then, you can snap the fob back together and test its buttons. If everything is in order!
If the fob is not working, the issue could be more serious than an unreliable battery. It may have lost its programming and need to be restored by the dealer or a locksmith.
Most fobs have an option to reset the programming. The process is generally quick, but it depends on the car model and make. The key fob will need to be "programmed" again to send its digital identification code to the car's onboard computer. This procedure varies by car model and year however, it is generally done by activating the car's power source (often several times) while holding various buttons or levers.
Certain retailers, including automotive part stores and locksmiths, will program aftermarket fobs bought on the internet. Yu from CR warns that these products are difficult to repair and could not function properly. If you choose to purchase a remote key fob from a third-party seller, be sure that the seller is reputable and look over the fine print to determine whether the fob is required to be programmed by a dealer. Some retailers, for example some Audi dealerships will require you to visit the dealer to have a third-party fob programed.