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How to Get a Replacement Car Key
It can be a hassle to lose your car keys. It can also be expensive dependent on the type of car you own.
A call to an auto locksmith is the easiest way to replace a key. This option is usually cheaper and quicker than calling an auto dealer or roadside assistance.
Cost
Not long ago lost your car keys was no big issue. You could just go to the local hardware store to purchase a replacement key. Today the process is more complicated and costly. It's because cars are more technologically advanced and their keys are as well. While this may make the keys more secure from theft however, they are also more expensive to replace.
The cost of a lost key replacement will depend on the year, make and model of your car. Many modern cars come with keys that include a transponder chip in them to help prevent theft. These chips need to be linked to your vehicle, which usually requires a locksmith or dealer. The cost of this service will differ based on the type of vehicle you own, but can be as high as $200.
Certain modern vehicles also have a laser-cut key that must be programmed using a special machine only found at auto dealerships and specialist locksmiths. The cost of a spare key in this kind of lock could be as high as $100.
Another factor that affects the cost of losing a key is where you live. If you are in a remote area it is likely that you will have to pay a premium for service because the locksmith or tow truck has to travel a long distance to get there. Moreover, a locksmith will be charged extra for holiday or after hours weekend hours.
The best way to cut down on the cost of a lost key is to keep an extra key with you, which can be kept at home or in your wallet. Keep your vehicle's registration or title documents on you. These will be required to prove ownership if you need to contact an auto dealer to request a replacement key. In addition, you can also utilize your roadside assistance service to help with the procedure. You might be able to obtain temporary replacements based on the terms and conditions of your roadside assistance service.
Time is a factor.
The loss of your car keys can be stressful, but you shouldn't panic. First, take a minute to look for your keys to your car in a convenient place like your pocket or purse. Then, look back and reflect on your day to determine the places you may have put them. This will help you remember if you've lost them or if they're still in your vehicle. If you can't find your car keys, it may be time to find a replacement.
The majority of modern vehicles come with a remote key fob that uses a code in order to unlock and start the car. This kind of key has to be reprogrammed to work with your specific vehicle and this is usually a job that requires a professional. Contact an auto locksmith and provide evidence of ownership.
Old-fashioned metal keys for cars are much simpler to replace than remote key fobs. They are 100% mechanical and are easy to duplicate. A locksmith in your neighborhood can replace your lost key on the right on the spot. They can also duplicate the ignition cylinder in your vehicle as an additional cost. If you'd like to create copies of your old car keys, visit an establishment that specializes in automobiles and make them quickly and inexpensively.
If your car keys begin to look worn out, you should consider replacing them. The teeth on the keys and the lock cylinder can be worn down by the use of the keys over time and make it difficult for them to align correctly with one another. If the key begins to become stuck inside the lock, it's also an indication that it's time for a replacement.
If you have a newer car and it is an expensive model, the key may need to be programmed by the dealership. This is a complicated job that can take several hours to complete and could cost a significant amount of money. Based on the model of your car, you may be able to have the process covered by your car warranty or insurance.
Availability
Even if your driving skills are excellent, you can still lose your keys. This could be a huge issue, especially if it happens at an inconvenient moment such as when you're at the grocery store or a gas station and you want to get back home. There are a variety of options to replace keys that have been lost. You can locate a locksmith, call roadside assistance, or even your insurance company.
The first thing you'll have to do is identify the type of car key you own. This is important since various cars have different kinds of keys. Some are old-fashioned and lock via the key cylinder while others have chips that communicate with the car to open the doors and then start it up. Some keys can be easily replaced by an auto-locksmith, while others may require you to visit a dealership to purchase one from the manufacturer.
No matter if you're using a conventional key or a smart key, your first step should be to read the manual or contact the dealer for instructions on how to program it to your vehicle. You'll need to provide proof that you own the vehicle, and then wait a few extra days before your dealer can order the replacement. This method may also require you to take the vehicle to a locksmith or service provider to be programmed, which isn't the best option for people with tight schedules or have a limited mobility.
If you have a spare key, the process is much simpler. You can buy a replacement car key online for a reasonable price based on the model of your vehicle. If your keys have a transponder as well as a key fob, then you'll need to see a qualified expert to program and replace them. Based on the make and model of your vehicle this could require a tow to the dealership or paying a locksmith to complete the task for you.
A bluetooth tracker is a different option to obtain a replacement car key. These tiny devices attach to your keyring and emit a unique signature that can be picked up by a mobile phone with an application installed. The app will reveal the location of your key, so you can locate it easily.
Insurance
Typically, car insurance does not cover keys lost. However, there are some exceptions. A lot of the top car insurance companies dedicated to client happiness provide additional coverage for things like lost keys. It is usually an extra fee, but it can be less expensive than paying out-of-pocket for replacement costs for keys.
The specific policy and the amount of the deductible will determine if your car insurance covers lost keys. The majority of traditional keys are easily replaced, but it may be more difficult if you own an electronic fob, or smart key. These keys are laser-cut and utilize computer chips to transmit a signal to the vehicle, meaning they are much more complicated to replace than traditional mechanical keys. In addition, these kinds of keys are more expensive since you'll need to pay for locksmith services as well as the cost of the new key.
You can consider using an auto club service or roadside assistance to save money in the event of replacing a lost key. automotive key replacement can offer discounts to locksmiths and may even reimburse you for the cost of replacing a key. Some of these companies offer emergency lockout assistance that is beneficial if you are in a hurry and have to get on the road.
You can also call your dealership to see if it can help. Locksmiths are typically on hand at all dealerships and they may be able to make keys at reasonable prices. If the dealer needs to make a key for your particular model, it may take several days. No matter which method you select, make sure to save all receipts and documents to make a claim with your insurance company for your car should you need to.
While it's not a pleasant experience losing your car keys can happen to anyone. There are ways to avoid the costly consequences. While the most affordable and quickest way to replace your lost keys to your car is to contact a local locksmith, it's important to weigh the monetary benefits against the time involved and the possibility of deductible payments prior to making a claim with your insurance company.