What You Need to Know About Key Car Replacement

The loss of your car keys can be an incredibly frustrating experience. Fortunately, there are many alternatives for car keys replacement to assist you in getting back on the road.

One option is to go to the dealership. This is the most expensive option but it comes with a functioning key as well as a fob.

What is the cost?

The cost of replacing a key in your car depends on the year, model and make of the vehicle. Certain models of newer vehicles come with transponder chips inside the keys that must be paired with the vehicle by a dealership or auto locksmith before they function, and this could increase the cost of replacement. The type of key also plays a part in the price. Keys that are older mechanical models are relatively inexpensive to replace however, more advanced smart keys may need to be changed.

The kind of key is the most important thing to consider when determining the overall price. Mechanical keys are simple to replace by a locksmith within your neighborhood for less than $50. If you have an advanced key that utilizes transponders or key fobs to open and start your vehicle, the price will be more expensive. The transponder and key fob will have to be programmed to link up and require specialized equipment that is only available through a dealership or auto locksmith.

Key fobs can serve as remotes that use electronic technology to open doors and start vehicles. 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, and some can cost up to $500.

If you lose your key, you'll need it tow away to the dealer, and provide the proof of ownership documents. They will then be able to issue you a replacement key and pair it electronically with your vehicle. This process can take several days, which can add cost to your bill.

If your car warranty is in effect, carefully read the conditions and terms to determine what coverage you are entitled to for lost fobs or keys. For example, some companies provide a breakdown protection plan with key replacement cover that can help you pay for the cost of replacing or reprogramming your car fob key. Ultimately this is among the best ways to save money on these unexpected costs.

What's the Process?

The procedure for replacing a key for your car depends on the kind of car you have. If you have an older mechanical key that inserts itself into the lock and turns it, the procedure should be fairly easy for a locksmith, or a key cutter. Modern keys however, have many more security and convenience features that make them more complex to replace.

Certain key fobs are so different from traditional keys made of metal that they require a different key to open the doors and to start the engine. They are harder to duplicate and could require a professional to program them, which can increase the cost.

Fortunately, the most frequent method to obtain a cheap key car key replacements replacement is by going to your local auto locksmith. They'll have all the tools required for this task and can usually get you back on the road in a matter of minutes. Roadside assistance services are also available, but are usually more expensive.

Another option for getting a cheap car key replacement is through your insurance provider. Review the terms and conditions of your insurance provider before choosing this service.

The process is relatively simple if you have an older model with an iron key. Locksmiths or key cutters will be able copy the original with little difficulty. If, however, your vehicle features a transponder chip on the key, you'll need to bring it to the dealer for replacement.

The dealership will need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN) as well as an original copy of your driver's license to order an additional key for your vehicle. After they receive the key, they will need to program it in order that it is compatible with your vehicle. The keyless entry remote must be programmed. This could be a long process depending on how complex your vehicle's antitheft device is. It's also worth checking to determine if this service is covered under your warranty or insurance policy.

What is the Time Frame?

If you have a spare key in case you lose your original, you can have it replaced immediately. But what happens if you don't have the original key or a spare? In that situation you'll have to contact the locksmith or a car dealership.

The dealer can provide you with a programmed key and a brand new one. The process could take a few days. It's dependent on the make and model of your vehicle and also the type of key you own.

A hardware shop or locksmith can duplicate keys for mechanical ones that are older. They'll require the original keys and proof of ownership, for example the title of your vehicle or registration.

You'll need to take your car to a dealer to replace it if you own an older model that is equipped with keys fobs. The dealership will have the tools required to complete this task including laser cutting and programming equipment. The dealership will also be able to make use of the VINs of the vehicle (VINs) to determine which type of key your car makes use of.

Another thing to take into consideration is whether or the key fob you have is covered under an insurance policy or warranty. Examine your car's warranty, insurance policy auto club membership or roadside assistance coverage to determine whether this is the situation.

The Cost of the Replacement Key

It may be time to replace your key if it is showing signs of wear. This could be visible scratches or rust or even a sticky key that's difficult to turn.

If your key suddenly stops working, it could mean that it's compromised. In this situation, you'll need to replace it as soon as possible to prevent having your car stolen. This could also mean the key cylinder has been damaged, which will require a professional to replace it. In this case you'll have to pay a higher price for a dealership-level key that will match your car's specific model.

What's the alternative?

There are several alternatives to replacing your key however, some of them may be more expensive. A locksmith, for example is more expensive than a dealership, but it will get you back on roads faster.

It will be more expensive to call the local garage. The garage will not have the specialist equipment that an auto-locksmith owns. They'll have to purchase it from a specialist.

Certain companies such as AutoZone do offer keys for cheap car key replacement cars, but they will use generic parts that don't match your original keys. If you choose to go this route, you will need to bring your VIN number to ensure they know the particular type of key you require.

Another option is to contact a roadside assistance service and have them tow your vehicle to the dealership to have the keys changed. It could take a while for them to order the key you require. You could also make a claim through your car insurance provider, but that will typically be more expensive and come with an upper limit on how many times you can claim the insurance for.

The best method to obtain an alternative car key is to contact an auto locksmith as soon as you can. They have the specialized equipment required to replace your fob and they can complete the job at a cheaper price than a dealer. They can also complete the job quicker, which is great if you are in a hurry. The other alternative is to call an emergency roadside service company, but this can be expensive and you may need to wait for long before they send someone to you.