Save Money on Replacements With a Spare Audi Key

Losing your Audi keys to your car is an extremely stressful experience. Fortunately, there are ways to save money on replacements, without any compromise in security or quality.

The majority of modern Audi keys need to be programmed in order to connect with the car's computers. A locksmith or an Audi dealer can perform this task. The process can last up to an hour.

1. Key Replacement

A working car key is an essential accessory for every driver. The loss of a car key could be a major setback. It is essential to always have a spare key. This will help you avoid the high costs of a replacement key if you should ever lock your keys in your car or lose your Audi keys somewhere.

The cost of replacing a stolen or lost Audi key can vary, dependent on the type of vehicle you drive and the kind of key. Metal keys that are traditional Audi keys typically cost less to replace than key fobs which require programming to work with your vehicle.

If you have a traditional key made of metal you can have an exact copy at many locksmiths or auto parts stores for about $20. If you do have a key fob, the best choice is to go to an Audi dealership or a locksmith for automotive. These experts can reprogram your new key and make sure that it works with the vehicle. The cost of this service is an average of $220 however, it can be more if the key has a broken chip.

A majority of modern vehicles require a special key fob to operate that is basically tiny remote that allows you to open the doors and start the engine. Unlike a regular key, the key fob also contains a microchip that requires programming to start your vehicle. This procedure can be difficult and expensive, so it's best to leave it to an expert.

A smart key is an emergency rescuer in the event of an unexpected situation in this day and age of technology. But it comes at a price, as the additional features can result in a hefty bill if you lose your keys.

We'll guide you through the options for a tailored solution to Audi's most pressing issues. We'll also focus on formality and confidence. There are options to make your experience seamless from the enticement and convenience of the convenience of a KeyMe kiosk to the dealership loyalty.

2. Programming

You'll need to program your replacement key after you purchase it. This allows the key to open your car's doors, but not start the engine. The cost of programming is typically included in the cost of replacing the key. Find out the cost of programming if it isn't included in the price of a replacement key.

It's a breeze to program your spare Audi key fob remote. Open one window and place the spare key in the "on" position. The dashboard lights will come on but the car will not start. Next, press the unlock button on your key fob. It should flash twice in one second.

If your Audi keyfob isn't working it could be required to program the immobilizer by a dealer such as Audi Mission Viejo. In this case, the dealer service will cost extra.

3. Transponder Key

If you lose your Audi key, you must to replace it as soon as you can. The new key for your car contains an electronic circuit, also known as a transponder. This chip communicates with the car's immobilizer system to ensure that the engine doesn't get activated when it shouldn't. As you'd expect, this extra feature adds to the cost of the key.

A regular transponder is similar to a metal key but has an extremely small top made of plastic. This plastic has a microchip inside that sends an unique signal each time the key is put in the ignition. The immobilizer system reads this signal and determines if it matches the information in its database. If everything matches up the engine will begin. If not it won't, thus preventing thieves from hotwiring your car and driving away with it.

These keys are much more advanced than standard automotive keys, and come in various sizes and shapes to fit different models of cars. They're made to withstand more stress than traditional keys made of metal and are incredibly resistant to breaking or destroying. That makes them a great protection against thieves who would otherwise be tempted to try using a slim-Jim to break into your vehicle.

You may also have an electronic remote, which blends the key and keyfob into one unit, based on your car model. They are more expensive, however, they are more convenient to use since you don't need to separate them.

The cost of the replacement key for an Audi can range from $280 to $475, based on the model year and the make. The cost for programming is typically charged by the dealership or locksmith when the key is programmed. The additional programming makes sure that the key works with your specific car model. It is important to know the importance of this step because a key that is not programmed with the proper programming will only open your doors but not start the engine.

4. Key Fob

If you own an older Audi that doesn't use the key fob or one that's worn out or suffers from electronic issues, you might be saving money by replacing just the outer buttons and shell instead of the entire unit. They can be found on the internet and are much less than a brand new key fob. You'll still require the key fob programmed and synchronized with your vehicle, however.

According to Mel Yu, automotive analyst at Consumer Reports, modern Audis come with digital key encryption, which requires specific programming tools, and technical expertise only available through the dealership. Some dealers aren't keen to program replacement key fobs that are purchased from outside the dealership. Locksmiths who specialize in cutting and reprogramming car keys perform this task at a less than the dealer.

The instructions given by the manufacturer, which may differ from one brand another can be followed to reprogram the majority of these replacement keys. It is possible that you will need to turn on and off the ignition for a specific number of times, or press specific buttons to enter the programming mode. Then, follow the rest of the steps to successfully program the fob.

Once you've completed the programming sequence Make sure to exit it in the same way you entered it. Check the manual for your particular system to determine how this differs by manufacturer. Test the key fob to ensure it functions as it was intended.

Apart from the replacement keys as well, you can also purchase a spare mechanical key designed by a professional locksmith. This is a solution to consider if you often lock your Audi keys inside the car or you wish to have a spare key in the case. Locksmiths will charge you between $200-300 to make an additional key for Audi Keyfob your audi keyless go and program it to your car.

Finding an extra Audi key isn't as hard as it once was however, it's crucial to understand the cost associated with the process so you are prepared. While traditional keys are still available in some Audi models, most drivers prefer the convenience of keys fobs that opens and starts their car with a button push.