How to Get a Replacement Key For Car
When it's time to purchase a replacement key for your vehicle the cost will depend on the type of key you have. You can either contact an expert locksmith, or go to your local dealership.
The dealer is the best option for a transponder or basic key. They can use your VIN number to find the code and pair the key with your car.
Lost Keys
To get rid of the stress that comes with losing your car keys, make an extra copy and store it safely. Unfortunately, that's not always feasible so the next best thing to do is to invest in the key-finder tag or one of the Bluetooth-based car key finders available on the market. This will give you few more days to look thoroughly (they generally turn up) or at a minimum, to 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've got an old key made of metal. They'll charge around $20 for a traditional car key replacement .
You should contact your dealer if your car is equipped with a transponder. This kind of key has an embedded chip that transmits an individual code to your vehicle whenever it is near which helps to keep your vehicle safe from theft and other security hazards. Your dealer will need to change the code of the key to allow it to function properly. This process can take several hours to complete and costs up to $200.
Certain newer vehicles have key fobs that can lock and unlock the car's door, as well as control other functions of your vehicle. These are very useful, but they can be a pain to lose! You can purchase a replacement car key fob on the internet, however it might cost you more than your local locksmith shop, and they'll have to program the fob to fit your specific vehicle.
You can also go to your car dealer and ask them to replace your lost fob. However, you'll be required to prove ownership. It will cost more than if it was done by an automotive locksmith. However, they do have access to the same database as the manufacturer, which makes it impossible to obtain a new key from them. Compare the prices of locksmiths in your area with those of the manufacturer if you opt to do this.
Broken Keys
If your key is damaged inside the lock, it can be a major pain. Fortunately, there are ways to remedy this problem without the need to purchase an entirely new key.
First, try to remove the broken piece using a pair of needle-nose pliers. These pliers are available in the tool area of most hardware stores. Alternately, you could use a pair of tweezers which have a an opening that is large enough to accommodate the key blade.
Be cautious not to apply too much pressure. Too much pressure will only make the break worse. Try to use a little oil on the tip of the key to reduce friction when you insert it into the lock. You can purchase a lubricant spray specifically designed for car keys or simply coat the end of the key with WD-40.
A locksmith or a dealer in vehicles can also make a replacement key. However, you will need to present a valid photo ID and proof of ownership before the dealer can issue an additional key. They'll also need to electronically pair the new chip to your vehicle, which could take some time.
Last but not least, some keys require to be coded prior to being able to be used with your vehicle. Therefore, if your key failed to work when you were trying to open or start the vehicle, you'll need to return it to the dealer in order to have it coded.
In general the cost to have the key replaced varies from make to manufacturer, but it's generally in the range of $100 to $200. The majority of people go to their dealer for repairs, because it's a simple and cost-effective method. It is possible to visit the dealership of the manufacturer in the case of a unique or luxury vehicle. In these cases you may have to have the vehicle towed and present evidence of ownership to the dealer before they are able to issue an additional key. In certain instances this is covered by the vehicle's warranty.
Transponder Keys
If your car was built within the recent 20 years or so the chances are that it has a transponder key (also called a "chip" key). The transponder chip is placed into the head of your car key and when it is inserted into your vehicle's ignition the antenna ring transmits an explosion of radio frequency energy to the chip. The chip responds with an identification code. The message is transmitted to the vehicle's immobilizer and, if it is able to receive the correct code, the engine will start.
If the correct code is not present, the immobilizer will disarm and prevent the engine from starting. Transponder keys can help prevent car theft by providing an extra layer of security. It's also important to have your keys replaced by a locksmith with experience working with the anti-theft systems of different auto makers.
Many people think that their dealer is the only place where they can purchase a transponder key. While it's true that the dealership does have the necessary equipment however, a professional locksmith is able to create a transponder key much less and offer a more convenient service generally.
Beishir Lock and Security carries the largest selection of transponder keys that can be used on many different automobiles. We can program and replace your existing transponder, remote flip key, or FOBIK key. We can even create an entirely new key for your vehicle from scratch if you need to.
It is important to remember that if your car currently operating with an untransponderized key, it is not possible to upgrade to a transponder one since the built-in immobilizer does not permit it. However, if you are worried about your car being stolen then it is highly recommended to invest in a transponder key.
It's crucial to choose the best lock for your vehicle in terms of security. Locksmiths can assist you with any lock but If you're looking for an extra level of security then it may be worth purchasing transponder keys to guard your vehicle from theft.
Remote Fobs
Many cars are now equipped with remote fobs that allow drivers open doors, trunks and tailgates, and some can even start the car. These tiny wireless devices transmit radio signals to the vehicle and are powered by a battery. If the battery in the fob dies, the device can become useless.
A chirp usually indicates that the key fob's battery needs replacing, and most of these remotes have easy-to-open cases. After you have opened the case, you will have to locate the correct replacement battery. The majority of these batteries can be found at auto parts stores as well as some supermarkets.
Reassembling the key fob is necessary after you've replaced the battery. With a screwdriver with a flat blade, carefully open the fob in various places to prevent breaking the shell. Then, put the fob back together and check its buttons. You're done if everything is in order!
If, however, the fob 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 repaired by a dealer or a locksmith.
Most fobs come with an option to reset the reprogramming. The process is usually quick, but it depends on the vehicle model and make. The key fob has to be "programmed" again to send its digital identification code to the car's onboard computer. This procedure differs for each car model and year. It typically involves holding buttons or levers while triggering the power.
Some retailers, like some auto parts stores as well as locksmiths can program aftermarket keys purchased online. But CR's Yu warns that such fobs could not function properly, and can be difficult to repair. If you decide to purchase a remote fob from an outside vendor, make sure it's an authorized seller and look over the fine print for details about whether the device requires dealer-level programming or not. Certain retailers, like some Audi dealerships have you visit the dealer to get a third-party fob programmed.