How to Get a Replacement Key For Car
When it comes time to get a replacement key for your vehicle the cost will depend on which type of key you have. You can call a locksmith or go to your local dealership.
The dealer is your best option if you have a basic or transponder key. They can use your VIN number to retrieve the code and pair the key to your car.
Lost Keys
The best way to avoid the anxiety of losing car keys is to create an advance copy and keep 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 a few more days to look for your keys thoroughly (they usually appear) or at the very minimum, to get an exchange from your dealer.
Even if you don't have your original key, a locksmith in your area can make a new key right on the spot if you've got an old metal key. The cost is around $20 for a replacement traditional car key.
Contact your dealer if your car has transponders. The key is equipped with an embedded chip which transmits a unique security code the vehicle when it is close. It helps protect your vehicle from theft and other security threats. Your dealer will have to reprogram the key for it to function correctly. This process could cost as much as $200 and can take several hours.
Some newer vehicles have key fobs which can lock and unlock your car's door as well as control the other functions of your car. These are handy but they are difficult to find if you have lost them! You can buy a replacement fob for your car online, although it may cost more than if you visited your local locksmith shop, and they'll have to program the fob to be compatible with your specific vehicle.
You can also ask your vehicle dealer to replace your lost fob but you'll need provide proof of ownership and it will cost you more than if you had been to an automotive locksmith. They have access to the same database as the manufacturers, so it is not impossible to get an alternative key. If you choose to opt for this option, it's important to compare the costs of the locksmith you have in your area to theirs.
Broken Keys
If the key you have lost is broken in the lock, it can be a major pain. There are solutions to fix this problem without having to purchase a new lock.
First, remove the broken part using needle-nosed pliers. They are available in the form of pliers in the tool section of most hardware stores. Alternately, car key replacement near me could make use of a pair of tweezers which have a a natural opening wide enough to fit the key blade.
Be careful not to exert too much pressure. If you apply too much pressure, it will only cause the crack to get worse. Use a small amount of grease on the end of the key to decrease friction when inserting it into the lock. You can buy an oil spray designed specifically designed for keys for cars or coat the key's end with WD-40.
A locksmith or vehicle dealer can also create a replacement key. But, you'll need to present a valid photo ID and proof of ownership before the dealer can issue the new key. They'll also need to electronically pair the new computer chip with your vehicle, which can take some time.
Another thing to keep in mind is that some keys require coding in order to work with your vehicle. So, if your key broke as you were trying to open or start the vehicle, you will need to bring it back to the dealership to be coded.
The cost of replacing a key differs according to the car, but is usually between $100 and $200. Most people choose to go to their local dealer as it is a simple and cost-effective process. It is possible to visit the manufacturer's dealership if you have a specialty or luxury vehicle. In these situations, you may need to have your vehicle towed and show evidence of ownership to the dealer before they are able to issue the new key. In some cases this is covered by the vehicle's warranty.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are commonly found in cars manufactured within the last 20 years. A transponder chip is embedded in the head of your car key and when it's inserted into your ignition the antenna ring transmits a burst of radio frequency energy to the chip. The chip responds by generating an identification code. This code is transmitted to the immobilizer of the vehicle and when the correct code is present the engine will begin to run.
If the correct code isn't present, the immobilizer will disarm and prevent the engine from beginning. Transponder keys help to prevent car theft by adding an extra layer of security. It is also why it's important to replace your car keys by an experienced locksmith who has experience working with various auto manufacturers' anti-theft systems.
Many people believe that the dealer is the only place where they can obtain a transponder key. Although the dealer does have the required equipment, an experienced locksmith can design an electronic transponder at a lower price and provide more convenience.
Beishir Lock and Security offers various transponder key options for a variety of vehicles. If you have a standard transponder key remote flip key or a FOBIK chip, we can replace it and program it for you. We can even design an entirely new key for your vehicle from scratch, if required.
It's important to know that if your car currently operating with an untransponderized key, it will not be capable of upgrading to a transponder one since the immobilizer built into the car will not allow it. However, if you are worried about your car being stolen then it is highly recommended that you purchase a transponder key.
It is essential to select the right lock for your car for security. Locksmiths can help with any kind of lock but if you're looking for an extra level of security then it may be worth investing in transponder keys to guard your vehicle from theft.
Remote Fobs
Many cars are now equipped with remote fobs that let drivers open doors, trunks and tailgates. Some even start the car. These tiny wireless devices communicate with the vehicle using radio signals and operate on the power of batteries. If the battery inside the fob dies, the device can be rendered useless.
The majority of these remotes come with easy-to-open casings. After you have opened the case, you'll have to locate the correct replacement battery. Fortunately, most of these batteries are readily found at auto parts stores as well as some supermarkets.
Reassembling the key fob is essential after you've replaced the battery. To avoid damaging the shell, open the fob's key open in several places using a screwdriver with a flat blade. Then, you can snap the fob back together and check its buttons. If everything is working, you're done!
If the device is not working, the problem could be more severe than an unreliable battery. It could have lost its program, and an authorized locksmith or dealer will need to repair it.
Most fobs come with a button that can be hit to reset their programming. It's usually a simple process, but it can vary by vehicle make and model. The key fob will need to be "programmed" again in order to transmit its digital identity code to the car's onboard computer. This procedure is different for every car model and year. It usually involves holding levers or buttons while triggering the power.
Certain retailers, including locksmiths and auto parts stores can program fobs from aftermarket stores bought online. Yu from CR warns that these products are difficult to repair and may not work properly. If you choose to purchase a remote key fob from a third-party seller make sure the seller is trustworthy and go through the fine print to determine if the fob requires dealer programming. Certain retailers, like some Audi dealerships have you visit the dealer to have a third-party fob programmed.