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What You Need to Know About Key Car Replacement Losing your car key can be a very difficult experience. Luckily, there are several options available for key car replacement to help you get back on the road. Another option is to go to the dealership. It's the most expensive option, however you will receive a functioning fob and key. What's the cost? The cost of replacing the key in your car will vary based on the year and make of your vehicle. Certain models of newer vehicles come with transponder chips in the keys that need to be linked to the vehicle by a dealership or auto locksmith before they function, and this could make a difference in the total cost of replacement. The type of key you choose to use can also affect the price. Certain older mechanical keys are easily replaced and more advanced smart keys may need to be reprogrammed or completely rebuilt. The kind of key is the first factor to consider when determining the price. Mechanical keys are simple to replace with a locksmith in your area for less than $50. If you've got a more advanced key which uses a transponder or key fob to unlock and start your car it will cost significantly higher. The transponder as well as the key fob will need to be programmed to work together, which requires special equipment that can only be found at a dealership or auto locksmith. Key fobs can be used as electronic remote controls to open doors and begin cars. Some have an LCD that displays your vehicle's status. Some of these keys can cost as high as $500. You'll have to tow your key that was lost to the dealer and present proof of ownership. They will then be able order you a replacement key and electronically pair it with your vehicle. This process can take several days, which can increase the cost. If your car warranty is still in force, you must be sure to read through the terms and conditions to determine the coverage you will receive for lost fobs or keys. For example, some companies offer a breakdown coverage plan that includes a key replacement policy that will help pay for the cost of replacing or reprogramming the car key fob. This is the most efficient way to save money when it comes to unexpected expenses. What is the Process? The procedure for replacing a key for your car depends on the type of vehicle you own. If you own a mechanical key that is placed inside the lock and then turned, the process for a locksmith or key cutter will be fairly straightforward. Modern keys come with more security and convenience features that can make them harder to replace. For example keys used in certain cars don't seem like the traditional metal keys, and require a unique key to activate the doors and start the engine. They are usually more difficult to duplicate, and they might require programming by a professional, which can add to the cost. Fortunately, the most popular way to get an inexpensive key replacement for your car is by going to your local auto locksmith. They'll have all of the necessary equipment for this task, and they can usually get you on your way within a matter of minutes. Alternatively, roadside assistance services can aid in this process too, but they're typically more expensive. You can also get a cheap replacement car key by contacting your insurance company. Some providers offer a special add-on specifically for this purpose, and it's important to read their terms and conditions prior to opting for this service. If you have an older model with a traditional metal key the procedure is relatively simple. A locksmith or key cutter will be able to duplicate the original without too much difficulty. However, if your car features a transponder chip on the key, you'll need to bring 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 car. Once they receive the key they will need to program it in order it can be used with your vehicle. The keyless entry remote should be programmed. This can be a long procedure based on how complicated your vehicle's antitheft system. It's also worth checking to see if this service is covered under your warranty or insurance policy. What is the timeframe? If you lose one of your keys and you have a spare you'll be able get it replaced as soon as you can. What happens if you don't have the original or spare key? In this case you'll need find a dealer or locksmith. The dealer will provide you with a new key and a programmed fob. The process can take a couple of days. It depends on your car's make and model, as well as the type of key you have. A hardware or locksmith shop can duplicate mechanical keys that are older. They'll need the original key as well as proof of ownership, such as your car's title or registration. If you own a brand new car that uses an electronic key fob, you'll need to go to the dealership to get it replaced. The dealership will have the equipment for this, such as 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 consider is whether or not your key fob is covered under a warranty or other coverage. Check to see if your key fob is covered by an insurance policy, a membership to an auto club or roadside assistance. The Cost of the Replacement Key It may be time to replace your key if it's showing signs of wear. This could be visible scratches or rust or even a sticky key that's difficult to turn. If your key stops working all of a sudden, it could be a sign that it was compromised by criminals. In that scenario, you'll need replace it as soon as you can to avoid having your car stolen. This could also mean that the key cylinder is damaged, which will require a professional replacement it. In this case you'll probably have to spend more for a dealer-level key that matches your car's model. What's the Alternative? There are a few alternatives to replacing your key however, some of them are more expensive. A locksmith, for instance is more expensive than a dealership, but will get you back on the roads more quickly. It will be more expensive to contact your local garage. The garage won't have the equipment needed by an auto-locksmith owns. They'll need to purchase it from a specialist. Certain companies such as AutoZone provide car key replacement services however, they'll use generic parts that don't correspond to the original keys. If you decide to take this route, you'll have to bring along your VIN number to ensure they know the exact type of key that 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 result in delays. You could also submit a claim to your insurance company for your vehicle however, this will generally be more expensive and come with an upper limit on the number of times you can file a claim for the coverage for. Contacting a locksmith for your car is the best method to get a new key for your vehicle. They'll have the specialist key coding equipment to replace your fob, and can usually do it for significantly less than the dealer. They'll also be able to complete the job more quickly and efficiently, which is essential if you're in a rush. You can also contact a roadside service, but it may be expensive and take some time to get someone to you.