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What You Need to Know About Key Car Replacement The loss of your car key can be a very frustrating experience. There are a variety of alternatives for replacement keys which can help you get back on the road. Another option is to go to the dealership. This is the most expensive option but it comes with a functioning key as well as a fob. What's the cost? The cost to replace the key for your vehicle is contingent upon the year, model and make of the vehicle. Some keys for newer models have transponder chip technology that require pairing by an auto locksmith or dealer before they will work. This could increase the cost of the replacement. The type of keys used can also impact the cost. Some older mechanical keys can be replaced inexpensively and more advanced smart keys might need to be reprogrammed or completely rebuilt. The kind of key is the first factor to take into account when determining the total cost. Mechanical keys are easy and straightforward, and can be repaired by a locksmith in your neighborhood for less than $50. However, if you own a more advanced key that uses a transponder or a key fob to open and start your car, the price will be more expensive. The transponder and the key fob will need to be programmed to work together and require specialized equipment that is only available at a dealer or auto locksmith. Key fobs are remotes with electronic controls that can be used to open the doors and start a vehicle. Some key fobs feature an indicator that shows the status of your vehicle. These can be a little more expensive than a traditional key, and some can cost up to $500. You'll have to tow your key that was lost to the dealer and provide proof of ownership. They will then be able order you a new key and then electronically link it with your vehicle. This process can take several days, which will increase the cost. If your car warranty is still in effect, be sure to read the conditions and terms to determine the coverage you will receive for lost keys or fobs. Some companies offer a breakdown cover plan that includes a key replacement coverage. This will allow you to pay for the cost of replacing or reprogramming your car key fob. This is the best way to save money when it comes to unexpected costs. What is the Process? The process of replacing a key in your car is dependent on the kind of car you own. If you own an electronic 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. For instance, the key fobs used in certain cars don't seem like the traditional metal keys, and require a unique key to open the doors and start the engine. They are more difficult to duplicate and may require a professional to program them, which may increase the cost. The auto locksmith in your area is the best option for a cheap key replacement. They'll have the tools needed to perform this service, and they can usually get you on your way in a matter of minutes. Roadside assistance services are available, but are generally more expensive. Another option to get an inexpensive replacement for your car keys is through your insurance company. Check the conditions and terms of your insurance company prior to choosing this service. The process is relatively simple if you own an older model with an iron key. Locksmiths or key cutters can copy the original key with ease. If your car is equipped with transponders in the key, you'll have to bring it to the dealer for a replacement. The dealer will need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN) and the copy of your driver's license in order to obtain an additional key for your vehicle. Then, once they receive the key, they'll have to program it to work with your vehicle. The keyless entry remote will also need to be reprogrammed which could be a lengthy process depending on the level of your vehicle's anti-theft system. It's also important to determine if this service is covered by your warranty or insurance policy. What's the Time Frame? If you lose a key and have a spare, you'll be able get it replaced immediately. But what if you don't have the original key or spare? In that situation, you'll need to contact an auto locksmith or a locksmith dealership. The dealer will give you a new key and a programmed fob. The process can take several weeks. It depends on your car's model and make, as well as the type of key that you own. A locksmith or hardware shop can duplicate mechanical keys that are older. The original key, along with evidence of ownership like your car's registration or title will be required. You'll have to bring your car to the dealer to replace it if it's an older model that is equipped with the keyfob. The dealership will have the equipment for this, including laser cutting machines and programming machines. The dealership will also be able utilize the VINs of the vehicle (VINs) to determine what type of key your car makes use of. Another thing to take into consideration is whether or the key fob you have is covered under a warranty or other coverage. Check your car's warranty, insurance policy auto club membership or roadside assistance insurance to determine whether this is the case. The Cost of the Replacement Key If your key has been used so much that it's showing signs of wear and tear, it could be time to replace it. This could include visible scratches or rust or even a sticky key that's difficult to turn. If your key suddenly ceases to work it could indicate that it's been compromised. If this happens you must replace the key as soon as you can to avoid your vehicle being stolen. It could be the case that the cylinder has been damaged and will need to be replaced by an expert. If this is the case you'll likely need to purchase a higher-cost dealer key that matches your car's model. What's the alternative? There are many alternatives to key car replacement, but some of them may be more expensive. Locksmiths, for instance will cost more than a dealership, but will help you get back on roads faster. You can also try calling your local garage, but that will be more expensive. The garage will likely not have the key coder that an auto locksmith has They will need to obtain it from a specialist. Certain companies such as AutoZone offer car key replacement services however, they'll use generic keys that don't match your original keys. If you're considering this method, make sure that you bring the VIN number of your vehicle so that they can identify precisely what kind of key you require. You can also contact an emergency roadside service to take your vehicle to a dealer for the replacement of keys. They may have to order the exact type of key you require, which can cause delays. You can also try to make a claim through your car insurance provider but this will usually be more expensive and have an upper limit on how many times you can claim the insurance for. The best method to obtain an alternative car key is to call an auto locksmith as soon as you can. They'll have the specialist key coding equipment to replace your fob, and can usually do it for much less than the dealer. They are also able to complete the job faster which is ideal when you're in a hurry. You can also call a roadside service, but it may be expensive and take an extended time to reach someone who can help you.