Car Key Replacements
Replacing a car key is a hassle and costly based on the type of car. It's a smart idea to keep spare keys handy in the event that you lose yours.
The car key has evolved with the development of automobiles. Modern keys have to be programmed to pair with the vehicle's immobiliser, normally a job for locksmiths or dealerships.
Keys stolen or lost
Losing keys to your car is a regular event. If you don't find your keys in a tucked away pocket or somewhere else obvious it is necessary to go through the procedure of obtaining a new one. Car key replacements aren't as simple as they used be however there are options for those who lose their keys.
It may be cheaper to replace your keys with a locksmith rather than a car dealership, depending on the kind. It is because car dealers charge a premium and often outsource the work to local locksmiths. A mobile automotive locksmith can do the job at a lower cost.
Traditional keys are what people imagine when they think of "car key replacement". These traditional keys do not have transponder chips or a fob, like remotes or smart keys. They can be replaced by many locksmiths or hardware stores and will generally cost $10 or less.
If you own keys fobs, or a key with a transponder chip replacing it can be more difficult. These keys can be replaced by the dealer you bought your car from, however they might not have spares in stock and will have to order it from the manufacturer. It could take a couple of days, and the price can be significantly higher.
There are some local locksmiths who have the equipment and blank keys to program these types of keys for cars, which could save you a lot of time and money. Some locksmiths provide mobile service which means they are able to do the work on-site.
In addition to helping with lost or stolen cars, some locksmiths can provide roadside assistance in the event that you're locked out of your vehicle and require help getting back in. This is particularly helpful if your car key fob has gone missing and you're unable to turn the ignition to start the car. This type of service usually comes with an expense for callouts and labor costs. You can inquire with your vehicle manufacturer or the breakdown service that you use to find out more details about what you can expect from them.
Damaged Keys
If your car key fob or keychain has been damaged, you'll need to repair or replace it. This can occur after an accident, a break-in, or even just normal wear and tear.
A locksmith is the ideal source to obtain keys that are replacements. They can replace or repair your keys, and can also create duplicates if you do not have one. Certain keys are more complicated than others. If your key is a Transponder Key it must be programmed to work with your vehicle. This requires specialized equipment, which is usually only available in the dealership.
If you're able to unlock your trunk and doors, but you're not able to start the engine, it could be a problem with the ignition cylinder. If you have a spare key, try using it to see if you are able to start the car this way. If you can't, call a locksmith or dealer.
Car key problems seem to occur at the most unavoidable times. Fortunately, certain issues are simpler to fix than others.
Remember that all the parts in your car are interconnected. If one component is damaged, it could create a domino-effect. If your key won't work in the ignition, it could be due to a problem with the battery. You can fix it by replacing the battery, but you must be aware of how to program the battery to your vehicle.
A locksmith can assist with this, but it is also important to have the VIN number of your vehicle. This number can be found in a few different places, including on the dashboard of your driver and in your owner's manual. You'll need to write it down so that you can hand it to the person who will replace your car keys. This information will speed up the process, because it will allow them to have the key to your vehicle as quickly as possible. It will also stop the possibility of making a mistake that could cause costly repairs down the road.
Lost keys in the ignition
A few years ago, misplacing your car keys was not an issue since you probably had an extra. Today's cars are more advanced in technology, which makes them harder to replace. Depending on the car you own and its year, changing the key can take a few steps and cost you a few hundred dollars or more.
Make sure you have a spare in a safe location at home. If you don't have a spare and your ignition is locked, you'll need to contact a professional for help. First, you'll need to identify the type of key that you own. This is important since a professional needs to determine which key you lost to get started on the replacement process. Once you have the information, it will be much easier to accelerate the process.
If you have a traditional car key that has a basic double-edged key blade, you could have a new one made at a hardware store for less than $10. You will need to know the year and model of the vehicle as well as proof of ownership (your registration or title will suffice). If you lose your key in the ignition, you can obtain a replacement if you give the locksmith the key to relock the cylinder. The pin is usually found beneath the steering column. It can be pressed by moving the cylinder to the accessory position.
The technician will need to restore the cylinder's cuts and then cut a new one that is compatible to the chip of the cylinder and then program the new key on the computer in your car. This is a complicated process but it's the best option if you've lost the car key that's in the ignition. If your car is brand new, you will have to take it to the dealer to request replacement of the key. They are the only ones that can offer you a replacement key with the required features.
Keyless Entry
In the past the possibility of misplacing a car keys or losing it was not that big of an issue because you could just get a locksmith to make an appropriate replacement for you. Since cars have become more advanced in technology, replacing keys that have been lost can take multiple steps and could cost several hundred dollars.
Depending on the model and year of car there are a range of different types of keys. The most commonly used are a mechanical key or the standard key. Other alternatives include a transponder key fobs, and a smartkey.
A key with transponder chips is more secure than the traditional car keys because it has a unique number that your car recognizes. Locksmiths don't just have to cut a new key, but also program it specifically for your vehicle. If you've lost this kind of key, it's best to take your car to the dealer to reprogram it.
Some car keys come with remote control devices that allow you to unlock and start your car from the distance. These keys are more expensive to replace, since they require a complex level of programming that only dealerships can carry out. A majority of these key systems are reprogrammable in the event that they stop working, therefore you can test this first before buying a brand new one.
Certain cars of the present have keys that look like fobs. They come with buttons on one side that you can press to lock and unlock your car. These are referred to as "smart" or "keyless entry" keys and are expensive to replace. It is important to keep in mind that most of these keys can only be made by your car's manufacturer If you lose one of them you'll have to go back to the dealership to get it replaced.
If you are able to locate someone who can make your car keys the next thing you need to do is write down your vehicle identification number (VIN). The VIN is usually engraved on the metal plate inside the door jamb or on your dashboard. This can be useful in the event that you need to claim the key under your warranty or car insurance in the future.