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What You Need to Know About Key Car Replacement Losing your car keys could be a stressful experience. Luckily, there are several options for key car replacement to assist you in getting back on the road. You can also go to the dealer. It's the most expensive option but you will get a functioning key and fob. What's the Cost? The cost to replace a key in your car is contingent on the model, year and make of your vehicle. Some keys for newer cars have transponder chip technology that require pairing by an auto locksmith or dealership before they can function. This can raise the cost of replacement. The type of keys used can be a factor in the cost. Some older mechanical keys can be replaced for a low cost, while more advanced smart keys may have to be reprogrammed or even completely rebuilt. When determining the price the first thing to consider is the kind of key. Mechanical keys are simple and straightforward, and they can be replaced by a locksmith local to you for well under $50. If you've got a more advanced key that uses a transponder or key fob to open and start your vehicle, the price will be much higher. The transponder will need to be linked up with the key fob, which requires special equipment that is only available through an auto locksmith or dealership. Key fobs can serve as remotes that use electronic technology to open doors and start cars. Some feature a display that shows you your vehicle's status. They can be a bit more expensive than a standard key, with some costing up to $500. You will need to tow your lost key to the dealer, and show evidence of ownership. The dealer can request a replacement key you and then pair it electronically to your vehicle. It can take some time to complete, which will add to your overall costs. If your car warranty is in effect, you should be sure to read the terms and conditions to determine the coverage you will receive for lost keys or fobs. For instance, some firms offer a breakdown coverage plan that includes a key replacement policy which will to cover the cost of replacing or reprogramming your car's key fob. This is the best method to save money on unexpected costs. What's the Process? The details of the key car replacement process will depend on the specific model of car. If you have a mechanical key that is placed inside the lock and then turned, the process for the key cutter or locksmith will be fairly straightforward. Modern keys, on the other hand are more secure and convenience features that could make them more complex to replace. Some key fobs are so different from traditional keys made of metal that they require a distinct key to open the doors and start the engine. These are typically more difficult to duplicate, and they might require programming by a professional, which can add to the cost. Fortunately, automotive car key replacement to obtain a cheap key replacement for your car is going to your local auto locksmith. They'll have all the tools required to perform this service and will generally get you back on track in just a few minutes. Roadside assistance is also available, but are usually more expensive. You can also obtain an inexpensive replacement key for your car through your insurance provider. Be sure to read the conditions and terms of your insurance company prior to choosing this service. If you have an older model with a traditional metal key, the procedure is relatively simple. A locksmith or key cutter can duplicate the original with no difficulty. If your car is equipped with a transponder inside the key you will need to take it to the dealer for a replacement. To order a new car key, the dealership will require your vehicle's identification number and the driver's license copy. Once they have received the key, they'll have to program it to work with your vehicle. The keyless entry remote needs to also be reprogrammed. This can be a long procedure based on how complex your vehicle's antitheft device is. Check to see if this service is covered under your warranty or insurance. What is the timeframe? If you lose a key and have a spare, you'll be able to have it replaced as soon as you can. What happens if you don't have the original key or spare? In this situation, you will need to seek out a dealer or locksmith. The dealer will be able give you a new key and a programed fob. The process can take a few days. It's dependent on your car's make and model as well as the type of key that you have. In the case of older mechanical keys, an establishment like a hardware or locksmith can copy keys for you. The original key, along with evidence of ownership, such as your car's registration or title will be required. If you have a newer automobile that is equipped with the key fob, you'll need go to the dealer to get it replaced. The dealership has the equipment to do this including laser cutting machines and programming machines. They'll also be able use the vehicle identification number (VIN) to determine the kind of key your car has. Another thing to take into consideration is whether or the key fob you have is covered under warranties or other coverage. Check your car's warranty, insurance policy or auto club membership or roadside assistance coverage to see whether this is the situation. The Cost of the Replacement Key It could be time to replace your key if it's showing signs of wear. This can include visible rust or scratches or even a sticky key that's hard to turn. If your key suddenly stops working it could be a sign that it has been compromised. If this occurs it is recommended to replace the key as quickly as you can to prevent your car from being taken. This could also mean the key cylinder is damaged, which will require a professional to replace it. If this is the case, you will likely have to spend more for a dealer-level key that is compatible with your vehicle's model. What's the Alternative? There are several alternatives to key car replacement, but some of them are more expensive. For example locksmiths generally cost more than the dealership but they'll be faster at getting you back on the road. You can also try calling your local garage, but that is more expensive. The garage may not have the key software that an auto locksmith has, so they will need to obtain it from a specialist. Some companies, such as AutoZone do offer keys for cars however, they'll use generic keys that don't correspond to the original keys. If you're considering this option, make sure that you bring the VIN number of your vehicle so that they can identify the exact type of key you require. You can also contact a roadside service to tow your vehicle to a dealership to get the replacement keys. They might have to purchase the kind of key you need, which could cause delays. You may also make a claim through your car insurance company. However, this could be more costly and you may only be allowed to claim the insurance a certain number of times. The best way to obtain an alternative car key is to call an auto locksmith as quickly as possible. They'll have the specialist key coding equipment to replace your fob, and will usually charge a lot less than the dealer. They will also be able to complete the job more quickly, which is important if you're in a rush. The other alternative is to call a roadside assistance company, but this can be expensive and you may be waiting for a while before they can get someone out to you.