How to Get a Replacement Key For Car
The cost of a replacement car key will depend on the kind of key you own. You can choose to call a locksmith or go to the local dealership.
If you own a basic key or transponder key, the dealer is usually your best choice. They can utilize your VIN to find the code and pair your key with your vehicle.
Lost Keys
To be able to avoid the stress that comes with losing your car keys, make backups and store them securely. If that's not feasible the next best option is to purchase a key-finder tag or one of the Bluetooth car key finders that are available. This will give you few more days to look thoroughly (they usually come up) or at the very minimum you can 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 on the spot even in the absence of the original. You'll be charged about $20 for a replacement traditional car key.
Contact the dealer of your car if it is equipped with transponders. The type of key you have is an embedded chip that transmits an individual code to your vehicle whenever it's close by and helps keep the car secure from theft and other security hazards. The dealer must change the code of your new key in order to make it function correctly. This process can cost up to $200 and can take several hours.
Some modern cars come with key fobs that lock and unlock the car door and control other functions of your vehicle. They are useful however they can be difficult to find if you have lost them! You can purchase a replacement key fob for your car on the internet. It may cost more than visiting your local locksmith because they will need to program it to work with your car.
You can also visit your car dealer and request for the replacement of the lost fob. However, you will have to prove ownership. It will cost more than if it was handled by an automotive locksmith. They do have access the same database as manufacturers, so it is not impossible to get an alternative key. If you do go this route, it's important to compare the prices of the local locksmith with theirs.
Broken Keys
If your key is damaged inside the lock, it can be a real pain. Fortunately, there are ways to solve this issue without the need to purchase an entirely new key.
First, try to remove the broken piece with needle-nose pliers. These pliers can be found in the tool section of most hardware stores. You can also get a pair of tweezers that have a natural opening large enough to fit the blade of the key.
Be careful not to apply too excessive pressure. A lot of pressure will only make the break worse. Try applying a bit of grease on the outside of the key to reduce friction when you insert it into the lock. You can buy a lubricant spray that is specifically designed for car keys or simply apply a coat of key with WD-40.
Another option is to go to a locksmith or vehicle dealership and get a replacement key made. But, you'll need to present a valid photo ID and proof of ownership before the dealer can issue the new key. They will also need to connect the new chip with your vehicle, which can take a few days.
Another thing to keep in mind is that certain keys require coding in order to work with your vehicle. Therefore, if your key broke as you tried to open or start the vehicle, you'll need to bring it back to the dealer to have it coded.
The cost of replacing a key differs according to the car and the type of vehicle, but it's usually between $100 to $200. It is easy and affordable for most people to visit their vehicle dealer. If you have a high-end or specialized vehicle, it might be better to visit the dealer of the manufacturer instead. In these instances, you may need to have the vehicle towed and present evidence of ownership to the dealer before they are able to issue the new key. In some cases the warranty may provide this.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are common in vehicles manufactured within the last 20 years. The head of the car key includes a transponder within it. When the key is put into the ignition an antenna ring emits radio frequency energy. The chip responds by generating an identification code. This message is sent to the vehicle immobilizer, and if it receives the correct code the engine will be able to start.
If the correct code is not present the immobilizer will not be able to arm and prevent the engine from starting. This is how transponder keys can help eliminate car theft and provides an additional layer of protection. This is why it is important to replace your car keys by a professional locksmith who is experienced with working with different auto manufacturers' anti-theft systems.
Many people believe that their car dealer is the only place where they can obtain a transponder key. While dealers do have the necessary equipment, a professional locksmith can make a transponder keys for less money and provide a more convenient service overall.
Beishir Lock and Security offers an array of transponder keys options for a wide range of vehicles. If you have a standard transponder key, remote flip key or FOBIK chip key we can change it and program it for you. We can even create keys for your vehicle from scratch if needed.
It's important to know that if your car currently operated with an untransponderized key, it is not capable of upgrading to a transponder one since the built-in immobilizer does not permit it. If you're worried about your car being stolen, it's recommended that you purchase an electronic transponder.
It's essential to choose the right lock for your vehicle in terms of security. Locksmiths can help with any type of lock but If you're looking for an additional level of security then it might be worth purchasing transponder keys to guard your car from being stolen.
Remote Fobs
Many cars have remotes that allow drivers to open trunks, doors, and tailgates. Some remotes can even start the vehicle. These tiny wireless devices communicate with the vehicle via radio signals and operate on the power of batteries. If the battery inside the fob fails it will become ineffective.
car replacement keys is usually a sign that the key fob's battery needs replacing, and most of these remotes are small and have cases that are easy to open. Once you've managed to pry the case open, you'll need find the right replacement battery to fit in the space provided. Fortunately, most of these batteries are readily found at auto parts stores as well as some supermarkets.
Reassembling the key fob is necessary after you have replaced the battery. To avoid damaging the shell, pry the key fob open in several places using a flat-blade screwdriver. Snap the fob together again and test all buttons. You're done if everything is in order!
However, if the fob isn't working the issue could be more serious than a damaged battery. It may have lost its program and will need to be repaired by a dealer or a locksmith.
Most fobs have a button to reset the reset. It's generally a quick procedure, however it differs by vehicle make and model. The key fob needs to be "programmed" again in order to transmit its digital identification code to the car's onboard computer. This procedure varies by car model and year however, it usually involves activating the car's power source (often multiple times) while holding various buttons or levers.
Some retailers, including some locksmiths and auto parts stores can program fobs from aftermarket stores purchased on the internet. Yu from CR warns, however, that these fobs can be difficult to repair and may not perform as expected. If you do want to purchase a remote fob from an outside vendor ensure that it's an authorized seller and check the fine print for details about whether the device requires dealer-level programming. Some retailers, such as some Audi dealerships will require you to visit the dealer to have a third-party fob programed.