How to Get a Replacement Key For Car

When it's time to get a replacement key for your vehicle, the cost depends on the kind of key you have. You can contact an locksmith or visit your local dealership.

If you have a basic key or a transponder key, the dealer is usually the best option. They can use your VIN to locate the code and pair your key with your vehicle.

Lost Keys

The best way to avoid the stress of losing car keys is to create an advance copy and keep it in a safe place. However, this isn't always feasible and the best thing to do is to purchase key-finder tags and/or one of the Bluetooth-based car key finders on the market. This will give you couple of days to search thoroughly (they usually come up) or, at the very least, to get an alternative from your dealer.

Even even if you don't have the original, a local locksmith can make a replacement key for you on the spot if you own an old key made of metal. You will be charged around $20 for a new traditional car key.

If your car was made with a transponder key, you must contact your dealer to get it replaced. The type of key you have is an embedded chip that transmits an unique code to your vehicle when it's near which helps to keep your car secure from theft and other security threats. The dealer must change the code of your new key in order for it to function properly. This process can take several hours to complete and costs upwards of $200.

Some newer cars have key fobs that can lock and unlock the door as well as control other functions of your car. These are handy but they are difficult to find if you lose them! You can buy a replacement car key fob on the internet, however it might cost you more than if you visited the local locksmith, and they'll need to program the fob to fit your specific vehicle.

You can also visit your car dealer and ask them to replace the lost fob. However, you'll have to prove ownership. It will cost you more than if it was handled by an automotive locksmith. They do have access the same database as the manufacturers and therefore 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 the locksmith you have in your area to theirs.

Broken Keys

If your key breaks off in the lock, it could be a nightmare. There are fortunately ways to remedy this problem without having to buy an entirely new key.

First, remove the broken part using needle-nosed pliers. They are available in the form of pliers in the tool section of many hardware stores. You can also make use of the tweezers in a pair that has a natural opening large enough to accommodate the blade of the key.

Be careful not to apply too much pressure. Applying too much pressure will only cause the break to worsen. Use a small amount of oil on the end of the key to reduce friction while inserting it into the lock. You can purchase a lubricant spray that is specifically for car keys or coat the key's end with WD-40.

Another option is to go to an auto dealership or locksmith and have a new key made. But, you'll need to present a valid picture ID and proof of ownership before the dealer is able to issue a new key. They will also have to connect the new computer chip with your vehicle, which may take a few days.

One last thing to remember is that certain keys require coding to work with your vehicle. Therefore, if your key broke as you attempted to start or open your vehicle, you'll have to bring it back to the dealer to get it coded.

The cost of replacing a key varies according to the car and the type of vehicle, but it's usually between $100 and $200. A majority of people prefer going to their dealer for repairs, 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 high-end vehicle. In these cases you'll need to have your vehicle towed to the dealership and prove ownership before they issue a replacement key. In some instances the warranty might provide this.

Transponder Keys

If your car was manufactured within the last 20 years or so chances are it comes with a transponder key (also called a "chip" key). A transponder chip is embedded into the head of your car key, and when it is inserted into your vehicle's ignition, replacement car key fob the antenna ring sends a burst of radio frequency energy to the chip. The chip responds by creating an identification code. The message is then relayed to the vehicle's immobilizer, and If the correct code is present the engine will begin to run.

If the correct code doesn't exist the immobilizer will be deactivated and stop the vehicle from starting. Transponder keys can help prevent car theft by providing an extra layer of security. It is also essential to have your keys replaced by a locksmith who has worked with anti-theft devices of various auto makers.

A lot of people believe that the only place to obtain a new transponder key is through the car keys replacement dealership. While it's true that dealers do have the equipment needed, a professional locksmith can make a transponder keys for less money and provide a more convenient service overall.

Beishir Lock and Security offers an array of transponder keys options for a wide range of vehicles. We can program and replace your standard transponder remote flip key or FOBIK key. We even have the capability of creating a new key from scratch for your vehicle, if needed.

It is important to know that if you are currently using a non-transponder car key it's not possible to upgrade to a transponder model because the anti-theft system won't allow this. If you're concerned about your car being stolen then it is highly recommended that you buy a transponder-enabled key.

It's essential to choose the best lock for your car in terms of security. Locksmiths can help with any kind of lock but should you require an extra level of protection then it could be worthwhile to invest in transponder keys to safeguard your vehicle from theft.

Remote Fobs

Many cars come with remotes that allow drivers to open doors, trunks and tailgates. Some remotes can even start the vehicle. These tiny wireless devices transmit radio signals to the vehicle and are powered by a battery. If the battery in the fob goes out it will become ineffective.

A chirp typically indicates that the battery in the key fob requires replacement, and a majority of these remotes are small and come with easy-to-open cases. After you have opened the case, you will need to find the right replacement battery. Most of these batteries are available at auto parts shops and some supermarkets.

Reassembling the key fob is necessary after you have replaced the battery. With a screwdriver with a flat blade, carefully pry the fob open in several places to avoid breaking the shell. Then, you can snap the fob back together and test its buttons. If everything works, you're done!

However, if the fob still isn't functioning it could be more serious than a bad battery. It may have lost its programming and a locksmith or dealer will need to repair it.

The fobs typically have a button that may be hit to reset their programming. The process is usually quick however, it will depend on the vehicle model and the make. The key fob needs to be "programmed again" to send the digital identification code to the car's onboard computers. This procedure varies by car model and year, but it generally involves engaging the power in the car (often several times) while holding different levers or buttons.

Some retailers, like some automotive parts stores and locksmiths will program aftermarket keys purchased online. Yu from CR warns that these fobs can be difficult to repair and could not work properly. If you decide to purchase remote keys from a third-party vendor make sure the seller is reputable and look over the fine print to determine if the fob needs dealer programming. Some retailers, for example some Audi dealerships will require you to visit the dealer to have an external fob programmed.