Car Key Replacements
Replacing a car key can be a pain and expensive depending on the type of car. It's a good idea to have spare keys in case you lose one.
The car key has evolved with the development of cars. Modern keys are programmed to pair with the immobiliser on the car, a task which is normally reserved for locksmiths or dealerships.
car key replacements that were stolen or lost are not found
It's not unusual to lose your car keys. If you can't locate your keys in a visible place, or if they are hidden, you'll need to purchase a new set. The procedure of replacing a car key is not as easy as it used to be. However, there are still some options available for those who have lost their keys.
Depending on the type of key you have, it may be cheaper to replace it with a locksmith than the car dealership. This is because dealerships charge a premium for their services and frequently outsource this work to the local locksmiths, while a mobile automotive locksmith is able to do the work for less.
Traditional keys are what people imagine when they hear "car key replacement". Traditional keys aren't a fob like your smart keys or remote they do not contain a transponder chip in the keys. These keys are available at most hardware stores and locksmiths for less than $10.
If you have a key fob, or a key with a transponder chip replacing it can be more difficult. The dealership where you bought your vehicle can replace the keys, but they might not have one in stock. They will need to order one from the manufacturer. This can take a while and will cost you more.
There are locksmiths in the area who have the tools and blank keys to program these types of keys for cars, which could save you a lot of time and money. Some locksmiths provide mobile service which means they are able to perform the work on site.
Some locksmiths can also provide roadside assistance to those who have locked themselves out of their car and require help to get back inside. This is particularly useful when your car's key fob has been lost and you're not able to start the ignition in the vehicle. This service usually includes an expense for callouts and labor charges. You can ask your vehicle manufacturer or breakdown service what they would like to see of you.
Damaged Keys
If your car key fob or keychain is damaged, you'll have to have it repaired or replaced. This can occur following an accident, break-in or even normal wear and tear.
The best method to obtain an additional key is to go to a locksmith. They can repair or replace your keys, and also help you make duplicate keys when you don't have one. However, certain keys are more complex than others. If your key is a Transponder Key, it will have to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This requires specialized equipment that is typically only available at the dealership.
If you're able to open your trunk and doors, but you're not able to start the engine, it could be an issue with the ignition cylinder. Try using a spare key to determine whether it can turn the vehicle on. If not, it's time to contact a locksmith or your dealer.
Car key issues tend to strike at the most inconvenient moments. Certain issues are simpler to solve than others.
Be aware that all the components in your car are interconnected. If one part fails, it could create an unintended domino effect. For example, if your key doesn't turn on in the ignition, it could be a problem with your battery. This can be solved with an alternative battery, but you'll be required to learn how to program it to the specific car you have.
A locksmith can be of assistance however, you'll need to know the VIN number for your vehicle. This number is found in a few different places, including on the dashboard of your driver and in your owner's manual. You'll have to record it to give it to the person who will replace your car keys. This information will accelerate the process, since it will enable them to have your key in your vehicle as quickly as they can. This will help them avoid costly mistakes that could lead to more costly repairs in the future.
Lost keys in the ignition
A few years ago, losing your car keys was not a big deal because you probably had a spare. Today's cars are more technologically advanced and therefore, they are more difficult to replace. Depending on your vehicle and its year, replacing the key can take a few steps and cost you a couple hundred dollars or more.
Make sure you have a spare in a secure place at home. If you don't own a spare key and your ignition is not working, you will need to seek professional assistance. The first thing that you'll need to do is identify the type of key you have. This is essential because a pro will need to be aware of the type of key you lost to begin the replacement process. Once you have this information, it'll be a lot easier to hasten the process.
You can have a brand new key made for less than $10 at a hardware store in the event that you have an old car key with a simple, double-edged knife. You will need to know the year and model of the vehicle as well as evidence of ownership (your registration or title should suffice). If you lose your keys in the ignition, you are able to obtain a replacement if you give the locksmith the key for cylinder retention. The pin is usually found under the steering column. It can be pressed by moving the cylinder to the accessory position.
The technician must repair the cylinder cuts, and then cut a key that matches the cylinder chip. Finally, the technician must program the key into the computer in your car. This is a complicated process however it's the only option if you've lost the car key that's in your ignition. If your car is very new, you'll probably need to go to the dealership and have them do this for you, since they're the only ones able to provide a replacement with the necessary features.
Keyless Entry
In the past, if you lost or misplaced your car keys you could have locksmiths to make you a new key. Nowadays, as cars are more technologically advanced, re-making a lost key can involve many steps and can cost you hundreds of dollars.
Depending on your model and year of your car, there are a variety of different kinds of keys. The most common are a mechanical key or the standard key. Other choices include transponders, key fobs, and a smartkey.
A key with transponder chips is more secure than the traditional car key since it has a unique number that your car can recognize. A locksmith will need to not only cut a replacement, but also program it for your specific vehicle. If you've lost this kind of key, it's best to take your car to the dealer so they can reprogram it.
Some car keys come with remote control devices that let you start and unlock your car from the distance. These keys are more expensive to replace as they require a high level of programming that only a dealership can perform. The majority of these systems are reprogrammable when they stop working so you can try it first before buying a new one.
Some modern cars come with keys that look like fobs. They come with buttons on one side that you can press to lock and unlock your car. These are known as "smart" or "keyless entry" keys and can be very expensive to replace. It's important to keep in mind that the majority of these keys are produced by the manufacturer of your vehicle, so if you lose one you'll have to return to the dealership to get it replaced.
If you're able to find someone who can make your car keys the next thing you need to do is write down the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). It is usually found on the number on your driver's side dashboard or it may be stamped on a metal plate in the door jamb. This will be helpful in the event that you need to claim the keys under your warranty or car insurance in the future.