10 Replacement Key For Car-Related Projects To Extend Your Creativity
How to Get a Replacement Key For Car
The cost of replacing a car key is contingent on the type of key you have. You can either contact a locksmith or visit your local dealership.
If you have a basic key or transponder key, the dealer is usually your best choice. They can use your VIN number to locate the code and then pair the key with your vehicle.
Lost Keys
The best method to avoid the anxiety of losing car keys is to create copies in advance and keep it in a safe place. Unfortunately, that's not always possible so the next best thing to do is to invest in a key-finder tag and/or use one of the Bluetooth-based car key finders available on the market. This will give you a few more days to search for your keys thoroughly (they generally appear) or at a minimum, to get an alternative from your dealer.
If you have a traditional metal key, the best bet is to call your local locksmith who will drive to the location of your car and make a new one right there, even if they don't have the original. You'll be charged about $20 for a replacement traditional car key.
It is recommended to contact the dealer of your car if it has transponders. This key has an embedded chip that sends an unique security code to the vehicle when it is close. It helps protect your car from theft and other security threats. The dealer will have to change the code of your new key to ensure it will function properly. This process can take a few hours to complete and costs upwards of $200.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology have key fobs which can lock and unlock your car's doors as well as control other features of your vehicle. These are very useful, but they can also be a pain to lose! You can buy an extra key fob for your vehicle online. It may cost more than visiting your local locksmith since they will need to program it to work with your vehicle.
You could also ask your auto dealer to replace your lost fob but you'll need provide proof of ownership and it will cost you more than if you had been to an automotive locksmith. However, they have access to the same database as the manufacturer, so it's not impossible to obtain a replacement key from them. If you choose to opt for this option it's crucial to compare the cost of the locksmith you have in your area to theirs.
Broken Keys
It can be a major hassle if your key breaks in the lock. There are solutions to fix this problem without having to purchase a new lock.
First, remove the broken part with the help of needle-nosed pliers. These pliers are available in the tool section of most hardware stores. You can also get a pair of tweezers that have a natural opening large enough to accommodate the blade of the key.
Avoid applying too much pressure. A lot of pressure will only cause the break to become worse. Try to use a little grease on the outside of the key to help reduce friction when putting it into the lock. You can buy a lubricant spray that is specifically designed for car keys, or apply a coat of key with WD-40.
A locksmith or a dealer in vehicles can also make an alternative key. However, you will need to provide a valid photo ID and proof of ownership before the dealer can issue the new key. The dealer will also need to pair the computer chip to your vehicle, which could take a few weeks.
One last thing to remember is that certain keys require coding to work with your vehicle. Therefore, if your key broke as you were trying to open or start the vehicle, you'll need to bring it back to the dealer to be coded.
In general, the cost to have a key replaced varies from one brand to the next model, but is generally between $100-$200. It is easy and inexpensive for most people to go to their vehicle dealer. If you have a high-end or specialty vehicle, it could be best to go to the manufacturer's dealer instead. In these cases you'll require your vehicle to be transported to the dealership and provide proof of ownership before they can issue a replacement key. In some instances this is covered by the warranty of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
If your car is manufactured in the last 20 years or so chances are it has a transponder key (also known as a "chip" key). A transponder chip is inserted into the head of your car key, and when it's inserted into the ignition the antenna ring emits an impulsive radio frequency energy to the chip. The chip then responds with an identification code. This message is relayed to the immobilizer of the vehicle and if the correct code is present, the engine will start.
If the correct code isn't present, the immobilizer will disarm and stop the engine from beginning. Transponder keys can help prevent car theft by providing an extra layer of security. This is why it is important to get your car keys replaced by an expert locksmith who has experience working with different auto manufacturers' anti-theft systems.
Many people think that their dealer is the only place where they can get a transponder key. While the dealership does have the necessary equipment, a professional locksmith can make a transponder key for much less and provide more convenient service in general.
Beishir Lock and Security offers a variety of transponder key options for a variety of 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 make a new key for your vehicle from scratch, if required.
It is important to be aware that if you're currently using a non-transponder car key, it is not possible to upgrade to a transponder model because the anti-theft system will not allow this. However, if you are concerned about your vehicle being stolen, it is highly recommended that you buy a transponder-enabled key.
When it comes time to secure your car, it's vital that you choose the right type of lock. Locksmiths can assist you with any kind of lock. However, if you want to add an additional layer of security to your vehicle, consider investing in an electronic key transponder.
Remote Fobs
A lot of cars today have remote fobs that allow drivers to open doors, trunks and tailgates, and some can even start the vehicle. These tiny wireless devices send radio signals to the vehicle and are powered by batteries. If car key replacement cost in the fob goes out, the device can become useless.
A chirp is usually a sign that the key fob's battery requires replacement, and a majority of these small remotes have cases that are easy to open. Once you can pry the case open, you'll need find a replacement battery that fits in the space provided. Fortunately, the majority of these batteries are readily available in auto parts stores and some supermarkets.
After replacing the battery, you'll have to put back together the key fob. Using a flat blade screwdriver to gently pry the fob open in several locations to ensure that the shell isn't damaged. Then, you can snap the fob back together and test its buttons. You're done if everything is in order!
If the device is not working, the issue could be more serious than a bad battery. It could have lost its program, and the locksmith or dealer will need to repair it.
Fobs usually have a button that may be used to reset their programming. The process is usually fast however, it will depend on the model of the vehicle and make. The key fob has to be "programmed" again to send its digital identification code to the car's onboard computer. This procedure is different for every car model and year. It usually involves holding levers or buttons while activating the power.
Certain retailers, including some automotive parts stores and locksmiths can program aftermarket keys purchased online. But CR's Yu warns that these devices could not function properly, and can be difficult to repair. If you do want to buy a remote fob from an outside vendor be sure to choose a trusted seller. Also, check the fine print for details on whether the item requires dealer-level programming. Some retailers, like some Audi dealerships require you to visit them in order to have a third party fob programmed.