How to Get a Replacement Key For Car

The cost of a replacement car key is contingent on the type of key you own. You can call a locksmith or visit your local dealership.

The dealer is the best option for a transponder or basic key. They can use your VIN number to find 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 a copy in advance and keep it in a safe place. Unfortunately, that isn't always possible and the best option is to invest in key-finder tags and/or one of the Bluetooth-powered car key finders that are available on the market. This will allow you more time to search (they tend to be located) or at the very least get a new key from your dealer.

If you have an old-fashioned metal key the best bet is to contact your local locksmith, who can travel to where your car is and make a new one immediately, even when they don't have the original. You'll be charged about $20 for a replacement traditional car key.

If your car was built with a transponder key, you should contact your dealer to have it replaced. This kind of key has an embedded chip that sends a unique code to your vehicle when it's close by which helps to keep your vehicle safe from theft and other security hazards. The dealer will have to change the code of your new key to ensure it will work correctly. This process can take several hours and cost replacement car key around $200.

Certain vehicles with more modern technology have key fobs which can lock and unlock your car's door and control other features of your car. These are handy but they are difficult to locate if have lost them! You can purchase an alternative car key fob on the internet, cost replacement car key but it could cost you more than your local locksmith shop, and they'll have to program the fob to fit your specific vehicle.

You can also visit your car dealer and request them to replace the lost fob. However, you'll have to prove ownership. It will cost you more than if it was done by an automotive locksmith. They do have access the same database as the manufacturers and therefore it's not impossible to obtain an alternative key. If you decide to go this route it is important to compare the costs of your local locksmith to theirs.

Broken Keys

If your key is damaged inside the lock, it could be a major pain. There are fortunately ways to fix this issue without the need to purchase new keys.

First, try to remove the broken piece with a pair of needle-nose pliers. These kinds of pliers in the tool section of many hardware stores. You can also make use of a pair of tweezers which have a a natural opening wide enough to accommodate the key blade.

Avoid applying excessive pressure. Inflicting too much pressure will cause the break to worsen. Use a small amount of lubricant on the key's end to decrease friction when inserting it into a lock. You can buy a lubricant spray that is specifically for car keys, or you can simply coat the key's end with WD-40.

A locksmith or a dealer in vehicles can also make an alternative key. You'll need proof of identity and proof of ownership for the dealer to issue an alternative key. They will also need to connect the new computer chip with your vehicle, which can take several days.

Another thing to keep in mind is that certain keys require coding before they will work with your vehicle. If your key was damaged while you were trying to start or open your car you'll have to take it back to the dealer to be coded.

In general, the cost to have keys replaced varies by manufacturer, but it's generally in the range of $100 to $200. A majority of people prefer going to their local dealer because it's a simple and cost-effective method. If you own a luxury or special vehicle, it could be better to visit the dealer of the manufacturer. In these instances you'll need to have your vehicle towed to the dealership and provide proof of ownership before they will issue a replacement key. In some instances, this is covered under 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 inside the head of your car key, and when it's inserted into the ignition the antenna ring emits a burst of radio frequency energy to the chip. The chip then responds with an identification code. The message is transmitted to the vehicle's immobilizer and, if it is able to receive the correct code the engine will be able to start.

If the correct code doesn't exist the immobilizer will be deactivated and prevent the car from starting. Transponder keys aid in preventing car theft by adding an extra layer of security. It's also important to have your keys replaced by a locksmith who has expertise working with anti-theft systems of different automobile manufacturers.

Many people believe that the car dealer is the only place where they can get a transponder key. While the dealer may have the required equipment an experienced locksmith can design a transponder for a much cheaper price and offer an easier service.

Beishir Lock and Security carries the largest selection of transponder keys that can be used on many different vehicles. If you have a standard transponder key remote flip key or a FOBIK chip, we can replace and program it for you. We can even take care of creating a new key from scratch for your vehicle, if needed.

It's important to note that if your car is currently operated with an untransponderized key, it is not feasible to upgrade to a transponder-enabled key since the immobilizer in the car's built-in system does not permit it. If you're concerned about your car getting stolen, it's recommended you purchase a transponder.

When it comes time to secure your automobile, it's important that you choose the right type of lock. Locksmiths can assist you with any lock but should you require an extra level of protection then it could be worth investing in transponder keys to guard your car from being stolen.

Remote Fobs

A lot of cars today have remote fobs that allow drivers to open trunks, doors, and tailgates. Some even start the car. These tiny wireless devices transmit radio signals to the vehicle and are powered by batteries. If the fob's battery fails it could render the device useless.

Most of these small remotes come with casings that can be opened easily. Once you have opened the case, you'll need to find the right replacement battery. The majority of these batteries can be found at auto parts stores as well as some supermarkets.

Reassembling the key fob is required after you have replaced the battery. To avoid damage to the shell, pull the fob's cover open several times with a screwdriver that has a flat blade. Then, put the fob back together and check its buttons. You're done if everything is in order!

If the fob is not working, the problem could be more severe than an unreliable battery. It may have lost its programming and needs to be restored by a locksmith or dealer.

Fobs usually have a button that may be hit to reset their programming. The process is usually quick however, it will depend on the model of the vehicle and make. The key fob needs to be "programmed again" to transmit the digital identity code to the car's onboard computers. This process is different for each car model and year, however, it usually involves activating the power in the car replacement keys (often several times) while pressing various levers or buttons.

Some retailers, including some locksmiths and auto parts stores will program aftermarket fobs bought on the internet. Yu from CR warns that these devices can be difficult to repair and may not work properly. If you decide to purchase a remote from an outside vendor ensure that it's a reputable seller and check the fine print for information about whether the device requires dealer-level programming. Some retailers, like some Audi dealerships require you to visit them to have an external fob programmed.