Car Key Replacements
Replacing keys for your car can be costly and time-consuming dependent on the car model. It's a good idea to have spare keys in case you lose one.
The car key has developed with the development of cars. Modern keys need to be programmed to connect with the vehicle's immobiliser, a task generally reserved for locksmiths or dealers.
Lost or Stolen Keys
It's not unusual to lose your car keys. If you're not fortunate enough to find your keys in a tucked away pocket or some other place that is easily accessible then you'll need to go through the process of getting a new one. Key replacements for cars aren't as simple as they used be, but there are still options for car owners who accidentally lose their keys.
Depending on the kind of key you own, it could be less expensive to replace it with a locksmith rather than the car dealership. It is because car dealers charge a premium and often outsource the work to local locksmiths. A mobile automotive locksmith will do it at a lower price.
Traditional keys are what people imagine when they think of "car key replacement". These traditional keys are not like your smart keys or remote and don't have a transponder chip within them. They are available in most hardware stores as well as locksmiths for as little as $10.
If you own keys fobs, or a key with transponder chips in it, the process of replacing it is more complicated. These keys can be replaced by the dealership that you bought your car from, but they might not have a spare on hand and you will have to purchase it from the manufacturer. This can take a while and can cost more.
There are locksmiths in the area that have the equipment and blank keys to program these types of car keys. This will save you lots of time and money. Some locksmiths provide mobile service so they can come and complete the task on site.
Some locksmiths are also able to provide roadside assistance for those who have locked themselves out of their vehicle and need help getting back in. This is particularly helpful when you've lost your car key fob and cannot turn the ignition. The service typically includes the cost of a callout and labor charges. You can ask your vehicle manufacturer or breakdown service what they would like to see from you.
Keys that are damaged Keys
If your car key fob or keychain has been damaged, you'll need repair or replace it. This could be the result of an accident, a break-in or even normal wear and tear.
A locksmith is the ideal option to find an alternative key. They can replace or repair your keys, and can also duplicate keys if you do not have one. However, some keys are more complicated than other keys. For example, if your key is a transponder the key will need to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This requires special equipment, which is typically only available in the dealership.
If you're able to open your doors and trunk, but can't start the engine, it may be an issue with the ignition cylinder. Try using a spare key to see whether it turns the car on. If you can't, call an auto locksmith or dealer.
The most difficult of times are when car keys malfunction. Fortunately, certain issues are simpler to solve than others.
It's important to keep in mind that the parts of your car all work together. If one part stops working and it causes an effect of dominoes. For instance, if your key doesn't turn on in the ignition, it could be a problem with the battery. It can be fixed by an alternative battery, but you'll be required to learn how to program it for the specific car you have.
A locksmith can be of assistance however, you'll be required to know the VIN number of your vehicle. The VIN number is available in several different places, including on the dashboard of your driver and in the owner's manual. You'll have to record it so you can give it to the person who will replace your car key. experienced will speed up the process so they will be able to get your key as fast as possible. It will also stop them from making a mistake that could cause costly repairs down the road.
Lost Keys in the Ignition
Several years ago, losing keys to your car was not much of an issue because there was a good chance you had a spare. Nowadays, cars are more advanced in technology, which makes them harder to replace. Depending on the year and model of your vehicle, replacing a lost key could require a number of steps and could cost you up to several hundred dollars.
Have a spare stored in a secure place at home. If you do not have a spare and your ignition is locked, you'll need to call a professional for assistance. The first thing you'll need to do is determine which type of key you have. This is important because a professional will need to determine which key you lost in order to get started on the replacement process. Once you have the data, it will be much easier to speed up the process.
You can have a brand new key made for less than $10 at a hardware shop in the event that you have an old car key with an unassuming, double-edged blade. You'll only have provide the year and model of your vehicle along with proof that you own the car (your registration or title should do the trick). If you lose your key in the ignition, you can get a new one by giving the locksmith the key to relock the cylinder. It is usually located beneath the steering column and is depressable with the cylinder turned to the accessory position.
The technician will need to repair the cuts on the cylinder and then cut a new one that's matched to the chip of the cylinder and then program the new key using the car's computer. This process is complicated, but it's the only alternative if you've lost your car key that's in the ignition. If your vehicle is new, you'll have to take it to the dealer to get them to replace the key. They are the only ones that can offer you keys that are replacements with the required features.
Keyless Entry
A few years ago when keys were lost in cars, or losing it wasn't that difficult to deal with because you could just get a locksmith to make an appropriate replacement for you. Since cars have become more technologically advanced, re-making keys that have been lost can take many steps and can cost hundreds of dollars.
There are many different types of car keys, depending on the year and model. The most popular ones are keys that are mechanical or standard as well as a transponder key the key fob, and an intelligent key.
A key with transponder chips is more secure than a traditional car key since it has a unique number that your car recognizes. Locksmiths do not just need to cut a new key but also program it for your vehicle. If you've lost this type of key, it's generally recommended to bring your car to a dealer to reprogram it for you.
Certain keys for cars come with remote control devices that allow you to unlock and start your vehicle from the distance. These keys are more expensive to replace, as they require a high level of programming only dealerships can carry out. Luckily, the majority of these keys can be reset when they cease to function, so try this before you pay for an entirely new key.
Certain cars of the present come with keys that look like fobs. They have buttons on one side that you can press to lock and unlock your car. These are known as "smart" or "keyless entry" keys, and they are expensive to replace. It's important to keep it in mind that most of these keys are made by your car's manufacturer, so if you lose one then you'll need to go back to the dealer to get it replaced.
If you are able to locate someone who can make your car key the next thing to do is to write down the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). The VIN is usually engraved on the metal plate inside the door jamb or on your dashboard. This will be helpful if you ever have to claim the key through your warranty or car insurance in the future.