Car Key Replacements

Replacing keys to your car can be expensive and time-consuming depending on the car type. It's a good idea to keep spare keys on hand in case you lose yours.

The car key has evolved as cars have developed. Modern keys have to be programmed to work with the car's immobiliser, a task generally reserved for dealerships or locksmiths.

Lost or Stolen keys

It's not common to lose your car keys. Unless you're lucky enough to find your keys in a hidden pocket or somewhere else obvious, you will have to go through the process of replacing one. The process of replacing car keys isn't as straightforward as it used to be. However, there are still some alternatives available to those who have lost their keys.

It may be cheaper for you to replace your keys with a locksmith rather than a car dealership, depending on the type. This is because car dealers charge a premium and usually outsource the job to local locksmiths. A mobile automotive locksmith will do it at a lower price.

Traditional keys are what people imagine when they hear "car key replacement". They do not contain a transponder chip or fob, as do remotes or smart keys. They are available in most hardware stores as well as locksmiths for less than $10.

If you have an electronic key fob or a key that has a transponder chip the process of replacing it can be more difficult. The dealership that sold you your vehicle can replace the keys, but they may not have one on hand. They will need to purchase one from the manufacturer. It could take a couple of days, and the cost could be significantly higher.

Local locksmiths may have keys that are blank and the equipment needed to program the car keys. This can save you time and money. Some even offer mobile service that allows them to visit your place and complete the task on site.

Some locksmiths are also able to provide roadside assistance for those who have locked themselves out of their vehicle and require assistance to get back in. This is particularly useful if your car key fob has been lost and you're unable to start the ignition in the vehicle. The service typically includes a callout fee and some charges for labor. It is possible to contact your vehicle manufacturer or the breakdown service you use to find out more about what to expect from them.

Damaged Keys

You'll need to replace or repair your damaged car key fob. This could be the result of an accident, a break-in, or even just normal wear and wear and tear.

The best way to get an additional key is to visit an locksmith. They can replace or repair your keys, and they can also duplicate keys in the event that you don't have one. However, some keys are more complicated than others. For instance, if your key is a transponder the key will need to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This requires special equipment that is usually only available at the dealership.

If you're able to open your trunk and doors but you're unable to start the engine, it may be a problem with the ignition cylinder. Try using an alternate key to see whether it turns the vehicle on. If you're not able to, call a locksmith or your dealer.

The most stressful of times are when car keys are damaged. Luckily, some problems are easier to solve than others.

Be aware that all the components in your car work together. If one part stops working it can trigger an unintended domino effect. For instance, if you find that your key doesn't turn on in the ignition, it may be a problem with your battery. It can be fixed by an alternative battery, but you'll need to know how to program it to the specific vehicle.

A locksmith can be of assistance, but you will also need to know the VIN number for your car. This number can be found in several different places like on the driver's side of the dashboard and in your owner's manual. You'll have to note it down to give it to the person who will replace your car key. Having this information can help speed up the process as it will allow them to have your key ready for your vehicle as quickly as possible. It also helps prevent the possibility of making mistakes that could lead to costly repairs later on.

Lost keys in the ignition

A few years ago, misplacing keys to your car was not a big deal because you probably had an extra. Nowadays, though, cars are a lot more technologically advanced, which means they're harder to replace. Depending on your vehicle and the year it was manufactured, replacing the key can take a few steps and cost a couple hundred dollars or more.

The best way to stop this from happening is to keep the spare key in a safe location at home. However, if you don't have a spare and your ignition is locked, you'll have to contact a professional help. First, you'll need to identify the type of key that you own. This is crucial since a professional needs to know which key you lost in order to begin the replacement process. Once you have this information, it'll be a lot easier to hasten the process.

You can have a new key for less than $10 at a hardware store If you have an old car key that has a simple, double-edged knife. You'll just have to provide the year and model of your car, along with proof that you own the car (your title or registration should do the trick). If you lose the key in the ignition, a locksmith could make a new key for you if they can provide them with the pin for cylinder retention. It's usually found under the steering column and can be depressed by turning the cylinder to the accessory position.

The technician must repair the cuts on the cylinder and cut a new key car replacement that's compatible to the chip of the cylinder and then program the new key with your car's computer. This is a complicated procedure, but it's the only method to replace the car key that was kept in the ignition. If your car is very new, you'll most likely have go to the dealer and have them do this for you since they're the only ones to provide a replacement that has the necessary features.