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What You Need to Know About Key Car Replacement The loss of your car key is a terribly frustrating experience. There are a variety of alternatives for replacement keys that can assist you in getting back on the road. Another alternative is to visit the dealership. This is the most expensive option but it comes with a functioning key and fob. What's the cost? The cost of replacing the key in your car varies depending on the year, make and model of your car. Some newer vehicles have transponder chips in the keys, which must be linked to the vehicle by a dealer or auto locksmith before they function, and this could increase the cost of replacement. The type of key you choose to use can be a factor in the cost. Keys that are older mechanical models are inexpensive to replace, however, more advanced smart keys may need to be programmed. The kind of key is the primary thing to consider when determining the total cost. Mechanical keys are easy to replace by a locksmith in your neighborhood for less than $50. If you have an advanced key that uses transponder or key fobs to unlock and start your vehicle, the price will be more expensive. The transponder will need to be linked to the key fob, which requires specialized equipment only available from an auto locksmith or dealership. Key fobs are remotes with electronic controls that can be used to open doors and start a vehicle. Some key fobs feature an indicator that shows the current status of your vehicle. Some of these keys can cost up to $500. If you lose your key you'll need it tow away to the dealer and provide proof of ownership papers. They will then be able order you a new key and then electronically link it with your vehicle. It can take several days to complete, which can increase the cost of your service. If you have a warranty on your car that is still active take a close look at the terms to see what coverage is provided for lost keys or fobs. For instance, some firms offer a breakdown insurance plan that includes a key replacement policy that will help pay for the expense of replacing or reprogramming the car fob. This is the best way to save money when it comes to unexpected expenses. What is the Process? The procedure of replacing a key in your car depends on the type of vehicle you have. If you have an older mechanical key that inserts itself into your lock and turns it, the process should be relatively easy for a locksmith or a key cutter. Modern keys however, have many more security and convenience features that can make them more difficult to replace. For example, the key fobs that are used in some vehicles barely look like traditional keys, and they require a unique key to activate the doors and start the engine. They are more difficult to duplicate and might require a specialist to program them, which can increase the cost. Thankfully, the most common method to obtain a cheap key replacement for your car is by visiting your local auto locksmith. They'll have all the equipment necessary to perform this service and will typically get you back on your way in just a few minutes. Roadside assistance is also available, but are generally more expensive. You can also purchase an inexpensive replacement key for your car through your insurance provider. Certain insurance companies offer an add-on specifically for this purpose, and it's important to verify their terms and conditions prior to making a decision to use this service. The process is relatively easy if you own an older model that has an iron key. Locksmiths or key cutters can duplicate the original key with ease. If, however, your vehicle uses a transponder chip in the key, you'll need to take it to the dealership for a replacement. The dealership will need to have your vehicle identification number (VIN) and the copy of your driver's license in order to order a new key for your vehicle. Once they receive the key they'll need to program it so that it is compatible with your vehicle. The keyless entry remote should be programmed. This could be a lengthy process based on how complex your vehicle's antitheft device is. Check to see if this service is covered by your warranty or insurance. What is the time frame? If you lose a key and have a spare you'll be able to get it replaced immediately. But what if you don't have the original key or spare? In this case you'll have to contact the locksmith or a car dealership. The dealer will provide you with a new key and programmed fob. vehicle key replacement could take a few days. It depends on the make and model of your vehicle and also the kind of key you have. A hardware or locksmith shop can copy mechanical keys that are older. The original key, along with proof of ownership such a your car's registration or title will be required. You'll have to bring your car to the dealer for replacement of it if you have an older model that has the keyfob. The dealership has the necessary equipment to do this such as laser cutting machines and programming machines. The dealership will also be able make use of the car identification numbers (VINs) to determine what type of key your car uses. A warranty or another coverage may include your key fob. Examine your car's warranty, insurance policy auto club membership or roadside assistance insurance to determine if this is the situation. The cost of a new key If your key has been used for so long that it's showing signs of wear and tear, it could be time to replace it. This can include visible scratches or the appearance of rust, or a lock that is hard to turn. If your key suddenly stops working it could be a sign that it's been compromised. If this occurs it is recommended to replace the key as soon as possible to prevent your car from being stolen. This could also mean the key cylinder is damaged, which will require a professional to repair it. In this scenario you'll likely need to purchase a higher-cost dealer key that is compatible with your vehicle's model. What's the Alternative? There are several options for replacing your car keys, but they aren't cheap. A locksmith, for example, will cost more than a dealership, but it will get you back on the roads more quickly. It will be more expensive to call your local garage. The garage is unlikely to have the specific equipment that an auto-locksmith has. They'll have to purchase it from a specialist. Some companies, such as AutoZone provide keys for cars, but they will use generic parts that don't correspond to the original keys. If you choose to go this route, you will need to bring your VIN number so that they can determine the exact type of key that you require. Another option is to call an emergency roadside assistance service and have them tow your vehicle to the dealership to get the keys replaced. They might have to purchase the exact type of key you require, which could delay your vehicle. You can also try to submit a claim to your insurance company for your vehicle, but that will typically be more expensive and comes with an upper limit on the number of times you can claim the cover for. Contacting an auto locksmith is the best way to obtain a new key for your vehicle. They will 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 do the job faster and efficiently, which is essential if you're in a rush. You can also call an emergency roadside service, but it can be expensive and take some time to reach someone who can help you.