How to Get a Replacement Key For Car
When it comes time to replace a key for your vehicle, the cost depends on which kind of key you have. You can call a locksmith or go to your local dealership.
If you have a basic key or transponder key, the dealer is usually the best option. They can use your VIN to retrieve the code and then pair your key with your vehicle.
Lost Keys
The best way to avoid the anxiety of losing car keys is to create copies in advance and store it somewhere safe. If that's not an option the next best option is to purchase a key-finder tag or use one of the Bluetooth car key finders that are available. This will give you more time to look (they are typically located) or at least to get a new one from your dealer.
If you have an old-fashioned metal key, the best bet is to contact your local locksmith who will drive to where your car is and create a replacement immediately, even in the absence of the original. They will charge you around $20 for a traditional car key replacement.
Contact your dealer if your vehicle is equipped with a transponder. This kind of key has an embedded chip that sends an unique code to your vehicle whenever it's close by, helping to keep the vehicle safe from theft and other security risks. Your dealer will need to change the code of the key to allow it to function correctly. This process could cost as much as $200 and can take several hours.
Some newer cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the door, as well as control other functions of your car. They are useful but they are difficult to find if you have lost them! You can buy a replacement car key fob on the internet, but it could cost you more than if you went to your local locksmith, and they will need to program the fob to work with your specific car.
You could also visit your car dealer and ask for the replacement of the lost fob. However, you will have to prove ownership. The cost will be higher than if it was handled by an automotive locksmith. They do have access the same database as manufacturers, so it is not impossible to obtain a new key. If you decide to choose to go this route it is important to compare the cost of your local locksmith to theirs.
Broken Keys
It can be a real hassle if your key breaks in the lock. There are ways to fix this issue without buying a new one.
First, remove the broken part with a pair needle-nosed pliers. These pliers can be found in the tool section at many 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.
Be cautious not to apply too much pressure. If you apply too much pressure, it will only cause the break to worsen. Use a small amount oil on the end of the key to reduce friction while inserting it into the lock. You can buy a lubricant spray that is specifically for car keys, or you can simply apply WD-40 to the end of the key.
A locksmith or a dealer in vehicles can also create keys for replacement. You will need to present a valid photo identification and proof of ownership in order for the dealer to issue the replacement key. The dealer will also need to connect the computer chip with your car, which could take several weeks.
The last thing to mention is that some keys require to be coded before they can be used with your vehicle. If your key was damaged while you were trying to start or open your car, you'll need to take it back to the dealer to be coded.
In general the cost to have a key replaced varies from make to model, but is typically in the range of $100-$200. It is easy and affordable for most people to go to their vehicle dealer. You may want to visit the dealer of your manufacturer if you have a specialty or high-end vehicle. In these cases you may have to have your vehicle towed and show proof of ownership to the dealer before they are able to issue a new key. In key replacement car is covered under the vehicle's warranty.
Transponder Keys
If your car was manufactured in the past 20 years or so, most likely it has a transponder key (also called a "chip" key). A transponder chip is inserted in the head of your car key, and when it is inserted into your vehicle's ignition the antenna ring emits a burst of radio frequency energy to the chip. The chip responds with an identification code. The message is then relayed to the vehicle's immobilizer, and If the correct code is in place, the engine will start.
If the correct code isn't present the immobilizer will be disarmed and stop the engine from beginning. This is why a transponder key helps to eliminate car theft and provides an additional layer of security. It's also important to have your keys replaced by a locksmith who has worked with anti-theft devices of various automobile manufacturers.
Many people think that their dealer is the only place where they can get a transponder key. While it's true that the dealership does have the equipment needed however, a professional locksmith is able to make a transponder keys for much less and offer a more convenient service in general.
Beishir Lock and Security offers a variety of transponder key options for a wide variety of vehicles. We can program and replace your standard transponder remote flip key or FOBIK keys. We can even design a new key for your vehicle from scratch, if required.
It is important to remember that if your car is currently operated using an untransponderized key, it will not be capable of upgrading to a transponder one since the built-in immobilizer does not permit it. If you're worried about your car getting stolen, it's recommended you purchase an electronic transponder.
It is essential to select the right lock for your car when it comes to security. Locksmiths can assist you with any type of lock however if you're looking for an extra level of protection then it might be worth purchasing transponder keys to guard your car from being stolen.
Remote Fobs
Many cars have remotes that allow drivers to open trunks, doors, and tailgates. Some remotes can even start the vehicle. These small wireless devices transmit radio signals to the vehicle and are powered by a battery. If the fob's battery is depleted, it can make the device inoperable.
A chirp is usually a sign that the key fob's battery needs replacing, and most of these remotes come with easy-to-open cases. Once you have opened the case, you'll require a replacement battery. Most of these batteries are available in auto parts stores and some supermarkets.
Reassembling the key fob is necessary after replacing the battery. To avoid damaging the shell, open the fob's cover open at several points using a flat-blade screwdriver. Then, you can snap the fob back together and test its buttons. If all is well, you're done!
However, if the device isn't working the issue could be more serious than a bad battery. It could be that it has lost its programming and needs to be restored by the dealer or a locksmith.
Most fobs come with buttons to reset the programming. The process is generally quick, but it depends on the car model and the make. The key fob has to be "programmed" again to send its digital identification code to the car's onboard computer. This process is different for every car model and year. It usually involves pressing buttons or levers while triggering the power.
Some retailers, such as certain automotive parts stores and locksmiths, will program keys from aftermarket purchased online. Yu from CR warns that these fobs can be difficult to repair and could not work properly. If you choose to purchase remote keys from a third-party vendor, be sure that the seller is trustworthy and go through the fine print to determine if the fob is required to be programmed by a dealer. Certain retailers, like some Audi dealerships, require you to visit the dealer to get a third-party fob programmed.