Car Key Replacements
Replacing keys to your car can be expensive and a hassle depending on the car type. It's a smart idea to keep spare keys handy in case you lose yours.
The car key changed with the evolution of cars. Modern keys have to be programmed to connect with the vehicle's immobiliser, a task generally reserved for dealerships or locksmiths.
Keys stolen or lost
Losing your car keys is a regular event. If you don't find your keys in an obvious place, or if they are hidden, you'll have to purchase new keys. Key replacements for cars aren't as easy as they used to be however there are options for those who lose their keys.
It could be cheaper to replace your keys with an expert locksmith than a car dealership, based on the type. It is because dealers for cars charge a fee and frequently outsource the work to local locksmiths. A mobile automotive locksmith can do the job for a cheaper price.
Many people think of traditional keys when they hear the term "car key replacement". Traditional keys aren't like your smart keys or remote and don't contain a transponder chip in them. These keys can be exchanged by the majority of locksmiths or hardware stores and will typically cost you $10 or less.
If you have keys fobs, or a key that has a transponder chip the process of replacing it can be more difficult. Keys can be replaced by the dealer you bought your car from, however they may not have a spare in stock and will need to order it from the manufacturer. This could take a few weeks and can cost more.
There are locksmiths in the area that have the equipment and blank keys needed to program these kinds of car keys, which will save you lots of time and money. Some even offer mobile service that allows them to come to your location and complete the task on site.
Some locksmiths also provide roadside assistance to those who have locked themselves out of their car and need help getting back in. This is particularly helpful if you have lost your car keys and are unable to turn on the ignition. The service usually includes an expense for callouts and labor costs. You can inquire with your vehicle manufacturer or breakdown service what they require of you.
Damaged Keys
You'll have to replace or repair your damaged car key fob. This can happen after an accident, break-in or even normal wear and wear and tear.
A locksmith is the ideal place to go to get an alternative key. They can replace or repair your keys, and they can also duplicate keys when you do not have one. However, certain keys are more complicated than other keys. For example, if your key is a transponder key the key will need to be programmed to work with the vehicle. This requires specialized equipment, which is typically only available at the dealership.
If you're able to unlock your trunk and doors but you're unable to start the engine, it could be a problem with the ignition cylinder. If you have a spare key, try it to see if it's possible to start the car this way. If not, you need to contact a locksmith or a dealer.
Car key issues seem to occur at the most difficult times. Fortunately, certain issues are simpler to solve than others.
Make sure that all the parts in your car are interconnected. It's possible that if one component is damaged, it could cause a domino-effect. If your key won't work in the ignition, it could be a battery problem. You can fix it with a new battery, but you must be aware of how to program the battery to your vehicle.
A locksmith can help with this, but it is also essential to have the VIN number of your car. This number is usually found in a variety of places, such as on the dashboard of your car or in the owner's manual. You'll need to write it down to give it to the person who will replace your car key. Having this information can help speed up the process as it will allow them to get the key to your vehicle as fast as possible. This will also help them avoid costly mistakes that could result in more costly repairs in the future.
Keys missing from the Ignition
A few years ago, misplacing keys to your car was not an issue because you probably had a spare. Nowadays, however, vehicles are much more technologically advanced. This means they're more difficult to replace. Based on the year and model of your car replacing a lost key may require several steps and could cost you up to hundreds of dollars.
Make sure you have a spare in a safe place at home. However, if you don't have a spare and your ignition is locked, you'll need to call a professional for help. The first thing you'll have to do is determine which type of key you have. This is crucial, since an expert will need know what key you lost in order to start the replacement process. Once you know the details it will be easier to speed up the process.
You can have a new key made for less than $10 at a hardware shop in the event that you have an old car key with a simple, double-edged knife. You'll just have provide the year and model of your vehicle along with proof that you own it (your title or registration is sufficient). If you lose your key in the ignition, you can still obtain a new one when you provide the locksmith with the cylinder retention key. This is typically located underneath the steering column and is depressable with the cylinder turned to the accessory position.
The technician must restore the cylinder's cuts and then cut a new one that's compatible with the cylinder's chip and then program the new key with your car's computer. The process isn't easy but it's the best option if you've lost the car key that's in the ignition. If car key replacements is very new, you'll probably need go to the dealer and have them do this for you since they're the only ones to provide a replacement that has the necessary features.
Keyless Entry
A few years ago when keys were lost in cars, or losing it wasn't that big of an issue because you could just get a locksmith to make an entirely new key for you. As automobiles are more advanced, replacing a lost car key can take a few steps and cost a few hundred dollars.
Based on the model and year of your car, there are a variety of different kinds of keys. The most common ones include a mechanical or standard key and a transponder one, a key fob and a smart key.
A key with chip transponders is more secure than a traditional car key, as it has a unique number that your vehicle recognises. A locksmith will need to not only 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 have them reprogram it for you.
Certain car keys have remote control devices that allow you to unlock and start your vehicle from the distance. These kinds of keys can be much more expensive to replace because they require more advanced programming that only dealerships can provide. Most of these key systems can be reprogrammed in the event that they stop working, so you can try this first before buying a new one.
Some modern cars come with keys that are more like fobs. They have buttons on the sides that can be pressed to lock and unlock your vehicle. These keys are referred to as "smart" and "keyless entry" and can be expensive to replace. It is important to keep in mind that these keys are manufactured by the manufacturer of your car in case you lose one you'll have to return to the dealer to have it replaced.
If you are able to locate someone who can create your car key, the next thing to do is record your vehicle identification number (VIN). It is usually found on the number on the driver's side dashboard or on a plate of metal in the door jamb. This can be useful should you need to claim the key through your warranty or insurance in the future.