How to Get a Replacement Key For Car

When it comes time to replace a key for your car, the cost depends on which kind of key you have. You can contact an locksmith or visit the local dealership.

The dealer is your best bet if you have a transponder or basic key. They can use your VIN number to find the code and pair the key car replacement with your car.

Lost Keys

To get rid of the stress that comes with losing your car keys, make a backup and store it in a secure location. Unfortunately, that's not always feasible so the next best option is to purchase a key-finder tag and/or use one of the Bluetooth-based car key finders available on the market. This will give you more time to look (they are typically found) or at a minimum, get a new one from your dealer.

If you have an old-fashioned metal key, the best option is to call your local locksmith who will drive to where your car is and make a new one immediately, even if they don't have the original. The cost is around $20 for a new traditional car key.

If your car was constructed with a transponder-type key, you must contact your dealer to get it replaced. This key has an embedded chip that transmits an unique security code to the vehicle whenever it's close. It protects your car 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 may take a few hours.

Some newer cars have key fobs that can lock and unlock the door and control other functions of your car. They are useful but they are difficult to find if you have lost them! You can purchase an extra key fob for your car online. It might cost more than visiting the local locksmith, as they will have to program it to work with your car.

You can also ask your vehicle dealer to replace your lost fob but you'll need have proof of ownership and it will cost you more than if you been to an automotive locksmith. However, they do have access to the same database as the manufacturer, so it's not impossible to obtain a replacement key from them. Compare the prices of locksmiths in your area with the price of the manufacturer should you decide to go this route.

Broken Keys

If the key you have lost is broken inside the lock, it can be a nightmare. There are ways to fix the issue without the expense of buying a new key.

The first step is to remove the broken piece with needle-nose pliers. They are available in the form of pliers in the tool section of most hardware stores. You can also use a pair of tweezers that have an opening that is large enough to accommodate the key blade.

Avoid applying excessive pressure. Too much pressure will only cause the break to become more severe. Apply a small amount of lubricant on the key's end to reduce friction when inserting it into the 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 an alternative key. You will have to present a valid picture ID and proof of ownership before the dealer is able to issue the new key. They will also need to connect the new chip to your vehicle, which could take some time.

One final thing to remember is that certain keys require coding to work with your vehicle. Therefore, if your key was damaged while you were trying to start or open your vehicle, you'll need to bring it back to the dealer in order to be coded.

The cost of replacing a key differs according to the car and the type of vehicle, but it's usually between $100 and $200. Most people choose to go to their vehicle dealer, because it's a simple and cost-effective procedure. You may want to visit the dealership of the manufacturer if you have a specialty or luxury vehicle. In these instances, you may need to have your vehicle towed and present proof of ownership to the dealer before they will issue an additional key. In some instances this is covered by the warranty for your vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are commonly found in vehicles manufactured within the past 20 years. The transponder chip is placed into the head of your car key, and when it is inserted into your ignition the antenna ring emits an explosion of radio frequency energy to the chip. The chip responds by generating an identification code. The message is then relayed to the vehicle's immobilizer, and if the correct code is present, the engine will start.

If the correct code does not exist, the immobilizer will deactivate and prevent the car from beginning. This is why transponder keys help eliminate car theft and provides an additional layer of security. It's also important to replace your keys by a locksmith who has worked with anti-theft systems of various automobile manufacturers.

Many people believe that the dealer is the only place they can get a transponder key. While the dealer does have the equipment needed, a professional locksmith can make a transponder key for much less and offer a more convenient service overall.

Beishir Lock and Security carries an extensive range of transponder keys for many different automobiles. We can program and replace your regular transponder remote flip key or FOBIK key. We can even take care of making a brand-new key from scratch for your vehicle, if needed.

It is important to know that if you're using a non-transponder key for your car it's not possible to upgrade to a transponder key because the built-in anti-theft system won't allow this. If you're concerned about your car getting stolen, it's recommended you purchase an electronic transponder.

When it comes to securing your vehicle, it is essential to select the appropriate kind of lock. Locksmiths can assist you with any lock, but if you're looking for an additional level of security then it might be worth investing in a transponder key to protect your car from being stolen.

Remote Fobs

Many cars come with remotes that allow drivers to open doors, trunks and tailgates. Some remotes can even start the vehicle. These small wireless devices communicate with the vehicle via radio signals and operate under the power of a battery. If the battery in the fob goes out the device could become ineffective.

A chirp usually indicates that the key fob's battery requires replacement, and a majority of these small remotes come with easy-to-open cases. Once you've managed to pry the case open, you'll need to find the right replacement battery to fit into the space. Most of these batteries can be found in auto parts stores and some supermarkets.

Reassembling the key fob is necessary after you've replaced the battery. Using a flat blade screwdriver, carefully pry the fob open in several places to avoid breaking the shell. Then, snap the fob back together and test its buttons. If everything is in order!

If the fob is still not working, the issue could be more serious than an issue with the battery. It may have lost its program, and an authorized locksmith or dealer will need to restore it.

Fobs usually come with a button that can be pressed to reset their programming. It's generally a quick procedure, however it differs by vehicle make and model. The key fob must be "programmed again" to transmit the digital identification code to the car's onboard computers. This process is different for every car model and year. It typically involves holding levers or buttons while triggering the power.

Certain retailers, including automotive part stores and locksmiths will program aftermarket fobs bought on the internet. Yu from CR warns, however, that these products are difficult to repair and may not work properly. If you decide to purchase a remote fob from an outside source be sure to choose a trusted seller. Also, look over the fine print to find out about whether the device requires dealer-level programming. Certain retailers, for instance, Audi dealerships require you to visit them to have a third party fob programmed.