How to Get a Replacement Key For Car
When it's time to get a replacement key for your car the cost is contingent on which kind of key you have. You can choose to call an locksmith or visit the local dealership.
If you have a standard key or transponder dealer is typically the best option. They can utilize your VIN to find the code and then pair your key with your vehicle.
Lost Keys
The best method to avoid stress of losing car keys is to make an advance copy and keep it somewhere safe. If that's not an option the next best option is to buy a key-finder tag or use one of the Bluetooth car key finders available. This will give you couple of days to search thoroughly (they generally appear) or at the very minimum getting an exchange from your dealer.
If you have an old-fashioned metal key the best option is to call your local locksmith, who will drive to the location of your car and create a replacement right there, even if they don't have the original. You'll be charged about $20 for a new traditional car key.
Contact the dealer of your car if it has a transponder. The type of key you have is an embedded chip that sends a unique code to your vehicle when it's near, helping to keep the car secure from theft and other security risks. The dealer must modify the key to ensure it will work properly. This can cost you up to $200 and take several hours.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology have key fobs which can lock and unlock your car's doors and control the other features of your car. These are handy, but they can be difficult to locate if you lose them! You can purchase an alternative car key fob on the internet, but it could cost more than if you visited the local locksmith, and they will need to program the fob to be compatible with your specific vehicle.
You could also visit your car dealer and ask them to replace the lost fob. However, you'll need to provide proof of ownership. It will cost more than if it was handled by an automotive locksmith. They have access to the same database as manufacturers and therefore it's not impossible to get a new key. Compare the prices of local locksmiths versus those of the manufacturer if you opt to do this.
Broken Keys
If your key breaks off inside the lock, it can be a real pain. Fortunately, there are ways to remedy this problem without having to buy an entirely new key.
First, remove the broken piece using a pair needle-nosed pliers. They are available in the tool area of the majority of hardware stores. You can also make use of a pair of tweezers that have a natural opening large enough to fit the blade of the key.
Be careful not to apply excessive pressure. Pressure that is too high will make the break more severe. Apply a small amount of oil 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 you can simply coat the key's end with WD-40.
Another option is to visit a car dealership or locksmith and have a new key made. You will need to present proof of identity and proof of ownership for the dealer to issue the replacement key. The dealer will also need to pair the chip of your computer to your vehicle, which can take a few weeks.
One last thing to remember is that certain keys require coding in order to work with your vehicle. Therefore, if your key failed to work when you tried to open or start the vehicle, you'll need to bring it back to the dealer in order to be coded.
The cost of replacing a key varies dependent on the type of vehicle however, it is typically between $100-$200. The majority of people go to their local dealer as it is a simple and cost-effective method. You may want to visit the dealer of your manufacturer for a special or a luxury vehicle. In these cases you might need to have the vehicle tow and provide evidence of ownership to the dealer before they will issue an additional key. In some instances the warranty might be able to cover this.
Transponder Keys
If your car was built within the last 20 years or so most likely it has a transponder keys (also known as a "chip" key). A transponder chip is inserted inside the head of your car key, and when it's inserted into the ignition the antenna ring emits an impulsive radio frequency energy to the chip. The chip responds with an identification code. The message is sent to the immobilizer of the vehicle, and if it receives the correct code, the engine will start.
If the correct code doesn't exist the immobilizer will be deactivated and prevent the car from beginning. This is how a transponder key helps to eliminate car theft and provides an additional layer of protection. It's also important to have your keys replaced by a locksmith who has experience working with the anti-theft devices of various auto makers.
Many people believe that the only place they can get a new transponder key is through the car dealership. While the dealer may have the required equipment, an experienced locksmith can create an electronic transponder at a lower price and provide an easier service.
Beishir Lock and Security carries the largest selection of transponder keys for many different automobiles. If you own a regular transponder key, remote flip key or FOBIK chip key, we can change it and program it for you. We can even design keys for your vehicle from scratch, if required.
You should be aware that if you are currently using a car key that is not transponder-compatible it's not possible to upgrade to a new transponder model because the anti-theft mechanism will not allow this. If you're concerned about your car being stolen, it's recommended that you purchase an electronic transponder.
It's essential to choose the right lock for your car in terms of security. A locksmith can assist you with any kind of lock. However, if you want to add an extra layer of security to your vehicle, it's worth investing in an electronic key transponder.
Remote Fobs
A lot of cars today have remote fobs that let drivers open doors, trunks and tailgates. Some can even start the vehicle. These tiny wireless devices communicate with the vehicle via radio signals and run on the power of a battery. If the battery inside the fob dies it will become ineffective.
key replacement car is usually a sign that the key fob battery is in need of replacement, and the majority of these remotes are small and have cases that are easy to open. Once you have opened the case, you will need to find the right replacement battery. Fortunately, many of these batteries are accessible at auto parts stores and some supermarkets.
Reassembling the key fob is required after you have replaced the battery. To avoid damaging the shell, pry the fob's cover open several times using a flat-blade screwdriver. Then, put the fob back together and test its buttons. If everything is in order!
If the device is not working, the problem could be more severe than an unreliable battery. It may have lost its program and will need to be restored by a dealer or a locksmith.
The majority of fobs have buttons to reset the programming. The process is usually quick, but it depends on the vehicle model and the make. The key fob needs to be "programmed" again in order to transmit its digital identity code to the car's onboard computer. This process is different for each car model and year, however, it is generally done by activating the car's power source (often several times) while holding various buttons or levers.
Some retailers, including some locksmiths and automotive parts stores will program aftermarket fobs bought on the internet. But CR's Yu warns that such fobs may not work properly, and can be difficult to fix. If you do want to purchase a remote fob from an outside source, make sure it's a reputable seller and read the fine print to find out on whether the fob requires dealer-level programming or not. Certain retailers, for instance, Audi dealerships, require that you visit them to get a third party fob programmed.