The Reason Everyone Is Talking About Replacement Key For Car Right Now
How to Get a Replacement Key For Car
The cost of a replacement for your car key will depend on the kind of key that you have. You can call a locksmith or visit your local dealership.
The dealer is the best option for a transponder or basic key. They can use your VIN number to retrieve the code and pair the key with your vehicle.
Lost Keys
The best method to avoid anxiety of losing car keys is to make copies in advance and store it somewhere safe. If that's not feasible the best alternative is to buy a key-finder tag or one of the Bluetooth car key finders that are available. This will give you more time to look (they are typically located) or at a minimum, get a new one from your dealer.
If you have an old-fashioned metal key the best option is to contact your local locksmith, who can travel to the location of your car and create a new key on the spot, even if they don't have the original. They will charge you around $20 for a traditional car key replacement.
It is recommended to contact the dealer of your car if it has transponders. The type of key you have is an embedded chip that sends an unique code to your vehicle when it's close by and helps keep the vehicle safe from theft and other security hazards. The dealer will need to modify the key in order to make it function correctly. This can cost you up to $200 and can take several hours.
Some newer vehicles have key fobs which can lock and unlock your car door and control the other features of your car. These are very useful, but they can also be a nightmare to lose! You can buy a replacement car key fob online, although it may cost more than if you visited your local locksmith shop, and they'll have to program the fob to fit your specific vehicle.
You can also ask your vehicle dealer to replace your lost fob however, you'll need be able to prove ownership, and it will cost more than if been to an automotive locksmith. They have access to the same database as the manufacturers which means it's not impossible to get an alternative key. If you do choose to go this route it's crucial to compare the cost of your local locksmith to theirs.
Broken Keys
If your key breaks off inside the lock, it can be a major pain. However, there are solutions to remedy this problem without having to buy new keys.
First, remove the broken part with the help of needle-nosed pliers. These kinds of pliers in the tool section of most hardware stores. You can also make use of a pair of tweezers that have an opening that is big enough to fit the blade of the key.
Avoid applying too much pressure. Too much pressure will only cause the break to become more severe. Use a small amount oil on the end of the key to reduce friction while inserting it into a lock. You can purchase a lubricant spray specifically designed for keys used in cars or coat the end of the key with WD-40.
A locksmith or vehicle dealer can also make a replacement key. But, you'll need to present a valid photo ID and proof of ownership before the dealer is able to issue the new key. The dealer will also need to electronically pair the computer chip with your vehicle, which can take several weeks.
One last thing to remember is that certain keys require coding before they will work with your vehicle. If your key was damaged while you were trying to start or open your vehicle, you'll need to take it back to the dealer in order to be coded.
The cost of replacing a key varies according to the car, but is usually between $100 to $200. It is easy and inexpensive for most people to go to their vehicle dealer. You might want to visit the dealership of the manufacturer if you have a specialty or luxury vehicle. In these situations, you may need to have your vehicle towed and present evidence of ownership to the dealer before they can issue an additional key. In some instances the warranty might cover this.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are commonly found in cars manufactured within the last 20 years. The head of the car key is equipped with a transponder in it. When the key is placed in the ignition, an antenna ring transmits radio frequency energy. The chip responds with an identification code. This code is transmitted to the vehicle's immobilizer and if the correct code is present, the engine will start.
If the correct code is not present the immobilizer will not be able to arm and stop the engine from beginning. Transponder keys aid in preventing car theft by adding an extra layer of security. This is why it's important to replace your car keys by an expert locksmith who is experienced with working with various auto manufacturers' anti-theft systems.
Many people believe that the only place they can get a new transponder key is through the car dealership. While it's true that the dealership does have the necessary equipment but a professional locksmith can make a transponder keys for much less and provide more convenient service in general.
Beishir Lock and Security carries the largest selection of transponder keys for many different vehicles. We can program and replace your existing transponder, remote flip key, or FOBIK keys. We can even make an entirely new key for your vehicle from scratch if you need to.
You should be aware that if you're using a non-transponder key for your car it's not possible to upgrade to a new transponder key because the built-in anti-theft system will not allow this. If, however, you are worried about your car being stolen then it is highly recommended to buy a transponder-enabled key.
It's essential to choose the best lock for your car when it comes to security. Locksmiths can help with any lock, but if you're looking for an additional level of security then it might be worthwhile to invest in transponder keys to guard your vehicle from theft.
Remote Fobs
Many cars now come with remote fobs that allow drivers open doors, trunks and tailgates, and some can even start the vehicle. These small wireless devices communicate with the vehicle through radio signals and operate under the power of batteries. If the battery in the fob goes out, the device can be rendered useless.
The majority of these remotes have casings that are easy to open. Once you've managed to pry the case open, you'll need to find a replacement battery that fits in the space provided. Fortunately, the majority of these batteries are available at auto parts stores and some supermarkets.
Reassembling the key fob is required after you've replaced the battery. Using a flat blade screwdriver to gently pry the fob open in several locations to ensure that the shell isn't damaged. Re-snap the fob and test all buttons. It's done if everything is in order!
However, if the device isn't working it could be more serious than a bad battery. It might have lost its programming and an authorized locksmith or dealer would be required to restore it.
Most fobs come with an option to reset the reset. It's generally a fast procedure, however it differs according to the model and make of the vehicle. The key fob will need to be "programmed" again in order to transmit its digital identity code to the car's onboard computer. This process varies based on car model and year, however, it usually involves activating the car's power source (often multiple times) while holding different levers or buttons.
Some retailers, including some automotive part stores and locksmiths, will program aftermarket fobs purchased online. Yu from CR warns, however, that these products are difficult to repair and could not perform as expected. If automotive key replacement do want to purchase a remote fob from an outside vendor, make sure it's a trusted seller. Also, check the fine print to find out on whether the fob requires dealer-level programming. Some retailers, like some Audi dealerships, require that you visit them to have an external fob programmed.