How to Get a Replacement Key For Car
The cost of a replacement for your car key is contingent on the type of key that you have. You can choose to call a locksmith or go to the local dealership.
If you have a basic key or transponder, the dealer is usually your best option. They can use your VIN to find the code and then pair your key with your vehicle.
Lost Keys
The best way to avoid the stress of losing car keys is to make an advance copy and store it somewhere safe. If that's not feasible the best alternative 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 search thoroughly (they typically turn up) or at the very minimum, to get an exchange from your dealer.
Even in the event that you don't have your original, a local locksmith can make a new key on the spot if you've got an old metal key. You'll be charged about $20 for a replacement 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 transmits a unique code to your vehicle when it's near, helping to keep the vehicle safe from theft and other security threats. The dealer must reprogram the key for it to function correctly. This can cost up to $200 and can take several hours.
Some modern cars come with key fobs that can lock and unlock the door and control other functions of your car. They are extremely useful, but they can be a hassle to lose! You can buy an alternative key fob for your vehicle on the internet. It may cost more than visiting your local locksmith because they will have to program it to work with your car.
You can also visit your car dealer and ask them to replace the lost fob. However, you'll have to prove ownership. The cost will be higher than if it was done by an automotive locksmith. They do have access the same database as the manufacturers which means it's not difficult to get a new key. If you decide to choose to go this route it is important to compare the prices of the local locksmith with theirs.
Broken Keys
If your key breaks off inside the lock, it can be a major pain. However, there are solutions to solve this issue without the need to purchase a new key.
First, take out car key remote control replacement broken part with the help of needle-nosed pliers. They are available in the tool area of many hardware stores. You can also get a pair of tweezers that have an opening that is big enough to accommodate the blade of the key.
Be careful not to apply excessive pressure. A lot of pressure will only cause the break to become more severe. Make sure to apply a little oil on the tip of the key to reduce friction when inserting it into the lock. You can buy a lubricant spray specifically designed for keys used in cars or coat the ends of the key with WD-40.
Another option is to visit an auto dealership or locksmith to have a replacement key made. However, you will need to provide a valid photo ID and proof of ownership before the dealer is able to issue an additional key. The dealer will also need to connect the chip of your computer to your car, which could take several weeks.
Not to be left out, some keys need to be coded before they can be used with your vehicle. If your key failed to work when you attempted to open or start the vehicle, you will need to bring it back to the dealer to get it coded.
In general the cost of having a key replaced varies from make to manufacturer, but it's typically in the range of $100-$200. Most people choose to go to their local dealer as it is a simple and cost-effective process. You might want to visit the dealer of your manufacturer if you have a specialty or high-end vehicle. In these cases you might need to have the vehicle towed and show evidence of ownership to the dealer before they will issue a new key. In some instances the warranty might be able to cover this.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are a common feature in automobiles manufactured in the past 20 years. The transponder chip is placed into the head of your car key and when it's inserted into the ignition the antenna ring emits an explosion of radio frequency energy to the chip. The chip responds by generating an identification code. This code is then sent to the immobilizer of the vehicle and, if it is able to receive the correct code the engine will begin to run.
If the correct code is not present the immobilizer will not be able to arm and stop the engine from starting. This is why transponder keys help eliminate car theft and provides an additional layer of protection. It's also important to have your keys replaced by a locksmith with expertise working with anti-theft systems of different auto makers.
Many people believe that the dealer is the only place where they can get a transponder key. While the dealership does have the equipment needed however, a professional locksmith is able to make a transponder key for much less and offer a more convenient service in general.
Beishir Lock and Security offers various transponder key options for a wide range of vehicles. We can program and replace your standard transponder, remote flip key, or FOBIK key. We can even make keys for your vehicle from scratch if you need to.
It's important to know that if your car currently operated with the non-transponder keys, it isn't feasible to upgrade to a transponder one since the built-in immobilizer will not allow it. If you're worried about your car being stolen, it's recommended you purchase the transponder.
When it comes time to secure your car, it's vital to select the appropriate type of lock. A locksmith can help you with any lock, but should you require an extra level of security then it could be worth investing in transponder keys to guard your vehicle from theft.
Remote Fobs
A lot of cars today have remote fobs that let drivers open trunks, doors, and tailgates. Some even start the vehicle. These tiny wireless devices transmit radio signals to the vehicle and are powered by batteries. But if the fob's battery is depleted it can make the device inoperable.
Most of these small remotes have casings that are easy to open. Once you've pried the case open, you'll need find the right replacement battery to fit into the space. Most of these batteries can be found in auto parts stores and some supermarkets.
Reassembling the key fob is necessary after you have replaced the battery. With a screwdriver with a flat blade and a gentle open the fob in several places to avoid breaking the shell. The fob should be resnapped and test all buttons. If everything is working then you're done!
If the fob is still not working, the issue could be more serious than just an issue with the battery. car key fob replacements could have lost its programming and need to be restored by a locksmith or dealer.
Most fobs come with an option to reset the reprogramming. It's generally a quick process, but it can vary depending on the vehicle's make and model. The key fob has to be "programmed again" to send the digital identification code to the car's onboard computers. This process is different for every car model and year. It usually involves holding buttons or levers while activating the power.
Some retailers, like some automotive parts stores and locksmiths can program aftermarket keys purchased online. However, CR's Yu warns that these fobs might not function correctly, and may be difficult to fix. If you do want to buy a remote fob from a third-party vendor, make sure it's an authorized seller and check the fine print for details on whether the fob requires dealer-level programming. Some retailers, for example some Audi dealerships have you visit the dealer to have a third-party fob programed.