Getting a Key Replacement Car Key Isn't As Costly As You Think

Everyone knows someone who always appears to lose their car keys. It's not as costly as you think to buy an entirely new key or fob.

Begin by looking through your owner's manual and see whether you can reset your key fob yourself (usually involves pressing a few buttons in a specific order). Check your car insurance policy or bumper-to-bumper warranty coverage for the cost of a new key fob.

Keys stolen or lost

In the past there was no big problem to lose your car keys. It was simple to replace the lost or stolen car key if you had one. It was possible to do this at any hardware store, locksmith shop, or even a dealer for cars. The key fob has made it more difficult to take cars. As a result, replacing a lost or stolen key is more expensive.

There are several different types of keys used in cars and the method of getting the new one is contingent on the kind of key you've lost or stolen. If you're lucky enough to have a traditional double-edged, classic key, you can probably find a replacement at any hardware store or locksmith for less than $20. If your key has an embedded chip or is integrated into an electronic key, key fob or switchblade key, you'll need to get a new one from a dealer.

With a purely mechanical key, a locksmith can duplicate the key by choosing the correct key blank for your year, year of manufacture and model, then tracing the original contours with an on-site machine. For the majority of models, it takes only just a few minutes for a professional to do.

If your key has a smart chip or a switchblade, you'll need bring it to the dealership. You will also need to provide proof of ownership. The dealer will then connect the computer chip inside your new key to your vehicle. It could take several weeks, depending on whether or not the dealer has your key in stock.

If your car is stolen, or your key is missing and you're unsure if that it was stolen by someone else, call the police. They can verify the serial number of your stolen key and help to locate it. If you have a backup key, bring it to the locksmith or dealer so that they can reprogram the locks on your vehicle and ignition to prevent the use of your vehicle by anyone else. If you do not have a backup, it's best to file a home insurance claim first.

Damaged Keys

Contact a locksmith immediately if you are having trouble opening or starting your car because the key is damaged. A professional locksmith can solve the issue without damaging the lock or key. They'll be able repair the cuts on the keys so it can fit into your lock. They'll match the key with the correct transponder for your car key replacement price [Read Far more] and then program it into your vehicle using a tool specifically designed for this purpose.

If your key is damaged most of the time the reason is that it was not properly inserted into the lock, or it was bent or twisted in a wrong direction for a long time. Some people report that their keys have been damaged after they dropped them or put it on a hot seat in the car. A power surge or fire could also cause damage to the key.

It's important to note that only a locksmith certified can fix your damaged key. If you try to use a generic, cheap replacement key, it'll most likely fail and end in costing you more in the long run.

A locksmith who is certified will make you keys that meet the exact specifications of your car. They can also save you a lot of money over the dealership price, so it's definitely worth your while to find one near you.

If you own a more advanced key, such as a smart key, you'll have to visit the dealer to get it replaced. You'll have to provide proof of ownership, and they'll require to pair the new key to your vehicle. It could take a few days and can be costly. If you're on a budget it might be a good idea to think about calling roadside assistance instead. They'll tow your vehicle to the nearest dealer that has the key type you require and will make the purchase for you. This will save you money on towing and the cost of a new key however, it may take longer than an locksmith.

Keyless Entry Systems

It is more expensive to replace a lost or stolen key fob, especially if you use a keyless system. This is because fobs contain an electronic chip that recognizes radio signals generated by the vehicle to activate its doors. Fobs tend to be more secure than keys because they only activate within a few inches of the vehicle, and there is no metal exposed that could activate locks. This makes them less likely to steal and more receptive to tampering.