How to Get a Replacement Key For Car
The cost of a replacement for your car key depends on the type of key you have. You can contact an expert locksmith or visit the local dealership.
The dealer is the best option if you have a transponder or basic key. They can use your VIN number to find the code and pair the key with your vehicle.
Lost Keys
The best method to avoid anxiety of losing your car keys is to make copies in advance and store it somewhere safe. Unfortunately, that's not always feasible so the next best option is to purchase key-finder tags and/or one of the Bluetooth-powered car key finders that are available on the market. This will give you a few more days to look thoroughly (they typically appear) or, at the very least you can get an exchange from your dealer.
Even if you don't have your original key, a locksmith near you can make a new key for you on the spot if you have an old key made of metal. They will charge you around $20 for a traditional car key replacement.
Contact the dealer of your car if it has transponders. This key has an embedded chip that sends an unique security code to the vehicle whenever it's close. It protects your vehicle from theft and other security threats. The dealer must modify the key in order for it to work correctly. This procedure could cost as much as $200 and may take a few hours.
Some modern cars come with key fobs that lock and unlock the door and control other features of your vehicle. These are very convenient, but can be a pain to lose! You can buy an alternative key fob for your vehicle on the internet. It may cost more than going to your local locksmith because they will need to program it to work with your car.
You can also ask your vehicle dealer to replace your lost fob however, you'll need provide proof of ownership and it will cost more than if gone to an automotive locksmith. However, they do have access to the same database as the manufacturer, which makes it impossible to get a new key from them. If you do go this route it is important to compare the cost of the locksmith you have in your area to theirs.
Broken Keys
If the key you have lost is broken in the lock, it can be a real pain. However, there are solutions to remedy this problem without the need to purchase a new key.
The first step is to remove the broken piece using needle-nose pliers. They are available in the form of pliers in the tool section of most hardware stores. Alternately, you could make use of a pair of tweezers which have a a natural opening wide enough to fit the key blade.
Avoid applying too much pressure. Too much pressure will only cause the break to get worse. Apply a small amount of grease on the end of the key to decrease friction when inserting it into the lock. You can buy a lubricant spray made specifically for car keys or coat the end with WD-40.
Another option is to go to an auto dealership or locksmith and have a new key made. You will need to present an acceptable photo ID and proof of ownership in order for the dealer to issue a replacement key. They will also have to connect the new computer chip with your vehicle, which may take several days.
One last thing to remember is that some keys require coding to work with your vehicle. If car replacement key fob broke as you tried to start or open your vehicle, you'll have to bring it back to the dealer in order to get it coded.
In general the cost to have keys replaced varies from make to manufacturer, but it's generally in the range of $100-$200. The majority of people go to their dealer for repairs, because it's a simple and cost-effective process. If you own a luxury or special vehicle, it may be best to visit the manufacturer's dealer instead. In these instances you might need to have your vehicle towed and show evidence of ownership to the dealer before they can issue an additional key. In some instances, the warranty may provide this.
Transponder Keys
If your car was built in the past 20 years or so, chances are it has a transponder keys (also known as a "chip" key). A transponder chip is inserted inside the head of your car's key and when it is inserted into your ignition, the antenna ring sends an impulsive radio frequency energy to the chip. The chip responds by generating an identification code. This code is then sent to the vehicle immobilizer and, if it is able to receive the correct code the engine will begin to run.
If the correct code isn't present the immobilizer will not be able to arm and stop the engine from starting. Transponder keys aid in preventing car theft by providing an extra layer of security. It's also important to have your keys replaced by a locksmith with worked with anti-theft devices of various auto makers.
Many people believe that the only place they can obtain a new transponder keys is through the car dealership. While it's true that the dealership does have the necessary equipment but a professional locksmith can make a transponder key for less money and provide a more convenient service overall.
Beishir Lock and Security carries a wide range of transponder keys for many different vehicles. If you have a standard transponder key remote flip key or a FOBIK chip, we can replace it and program it for you. We can even create a new key for your vehicle from scratch if needed.
It is important to know that if you are currently using a car key that is not transponder-compatible it's not possible to upgrade to a new transponder key because the built-in anti-theft mechanism will not allow this. If you're worried about your car getting stolen, it's recommended you purchase an electronic transponder.
When it comes time to secure your vehicle, it is essential to select the appropriate type of lock. Locksmiths can help with any type of lock however If you're looking for an extra level of security then it could be worthwhile to invest in a transponder key to protect your car from being stolen.
Remote Fobs
Many cars come with remotes that let drivers 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 in the fob goes out it will become ineffective.
A chirp is usually a sign that the key fob battery needs replacing, and most of these remotes are small and have easy-to-open cases. Once you've pried the case open, you'll need to find a replacement battery that fits in the space provided. Fortunately, many of these batteries are accessible at auto parts stores as well as some supermarkets.
Once you've replaced the battery, you'll need to rebuild the key fob. To avoid damaging the shell, pry the fob's key open several times with a screwdriver that has a flat blade. Then, you can snap the fob back together and check its buttons. If all is well then you're done!
If the fob is still not working, the issue could be more serious than a bad battery. It may have lost its programming and an authorized locksmith or dealer may be required to restore it.
Most fobs come with a button that can be hit to reset their reprogramming. The process is usually fast however it is dependent on the car model and make. The key fob will need to be "programmed" again in order to transmit its digital identification code to the car's onboard computer. This procedure is different for every car model and year. It usually involves holding levers or buttons while triggering the power.
Some retailers, such as some auto parts stores as well as locksmiths, will program keys from aftermarket purchased online. However, CR's Yu warns that these devices may not work properly, and can be difficult to repair. If you opt to purchase remote keys from a third-party seller make sure 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, like some Audi dealerships, require you to visit them in order to have an external fob programmed.