How to Get a Replacement Key For Car When it's time to get a replacement key for your car, the cost depends on the kind of key you have. You can either contact a locksmith or visit your local dealership. If you have a basic key or transponder key, a dealer is your best option. They can use your VIN number to find the code and pair the key to your car. Lost Keys To get rid of the stress that comes with losing your car keys, create an extra copy and store it safely. Unfortunately, that's not always possible and the best thing to do is to invest in key-finder tags and/or one of the Bluetooth-powered car key finders that are available on the market. This will allow you more time to search (they are usually located) or at the very least obtain a new key from your dealer. Even even if you don't have the original, a local locksmith can create a new key right on the spot if you have an old key made of metal. They'll charge around $20 for a standard car key replacement. You should contact your dealer if your vehicle has transponders. This type of key includes an embedded chip that sends an individual code to your vehicle whenever it's near, helping to keep the vehicle safe from theft and other security threats. Your dealer will have to reprogram the key for it to function correctly. This can cost up to $200 and may take a few hours. Certain vehicles with more modern technology include key fobs that lock and unlock your car's door as well as control the other functions of your car. These are very useful, but they can be a hassle to lose! You can purchase a replacement fob for your car on the internet, but it could cost you more than the local locksmith, and they will need to program the fob to work with your specific car. You can also go to your car dealer and request them to replace your lost fob. However, you'll need to provide proof of ownership. The cost will be higher than if it was performed by an automotive locksmith. However, they do have access to the same database as the manufacturer, so it's not impossible to obtain a replacement key from them. Compare the costs of local locksmiths versus the price of the manufacturer should you decide to go this route. Broken Keys It can be a major hassle if your key breaks in the lock. There are ways to fix this issue without buying a new one. First, take out the broken part with needle-nosed pliers. These pliers can be found in the tool section at most hardware stores. You can also make use of a pair tweezers with an opening that is large enough to accommodate the blade of the key. Be cautious not to apply too excessive pressure. A lot of pressure will only make the break worse. Make sure to apply a little lubrication on the end of the key to help reduce friction when inserting it into the lock. You can buy a lubricant spray that is specifically designed for keys for cars, or you can simply coat the key's end with WD-40. A locksmith or a dealer in vehicles can also make a replacement key. You'll need to show a valid photo identification and proof of ownership in order for the dealer to issue the replacement key. They'll also need to pair the new chip with your vehicle, which may take several days. Another thing to keep in mind is that some keys require coding in order to work with your vehicle. So, if your key broke as you were trying to open or start the vehicle, you'll have to return it to the dealership to have it coded. The cost of replacing a key differs depending on the vehicle however, it is typically between $100-$200. A majority of people prefer going to their local dealer since it's a straightforward and cost-effective process. It is possible to visit the dealership of the manufacturer for a special or luxury vehicle. In these situations you might need to have the vehicle tow and provide evidence of ownership to the dealer before they can issue a new key. In some instances, this is covered under the vehicle's warranty. Transponder Keys If your car is manufactured in the past 20 years or so, the chances are that it has a transponder keys (also called a "chip" key). A transponder chip is embedded inside the head of your car's key and when it is inserted into your vehicle's ignition the antenna ring transmits an impulsive radio frequency energy to the chip. The chip then responds with an identification code. This message is sent to the vehicle immobilizer and, if it receives the correct code the engine will begin to run. If the correct code doesn't exist, the immobilizer will deactivate and stop the vehicle from beginning. Transponder keys help to prevent car theft by adding an additional layer of security. It's also important to replace your keys by a locksmith who has experience working with the anti-theft devices of various automobile manufacturers. Many people believe that the only way to get a new transponder key is from their car dealership. While the dealer does have the necessary equipment but a professional locksmith can create a transponder key much less and offer a more convenient service overall. Beishir Lock and Security carries a wide range of transponder keys for many different automobiles. We can program and replace your regular transponder, remote flip key, or FOBIK key. We also have the option of creating a new key from scratch for your vehicle, if needed. It is important to remember that if your vehicle is currently operated with a non-transponder key it is not possible to upgrade to a transponder one since the immobilizer in the car's built-in system does not permit it. If you're worried about your car getting stolen, it's recommended that you purchase the transponder. It is essential to select the right lock for your car when it comes to security. A locksmith can assist you with any type of lock. If you want to add a layer of security to your vehicle, it's worth investing in a key transponder. Remote Fobs Many cars now come with remote fobs that allow drivers to open trunks, doors, and tailgates. Some even start the vehicle. These tiny wireless devices transmit radio signals to the vehicle and are powered by batteries. However, if the fob's battery is depleted, it can render the device useless. The majority of these remotes come with easy-to-open casings. Once you can pry the case open, you'll need to find an appropriate replacement battery that will fit into the space. Most of these batteries can be found at auto parts shops and some supermarkets. Reassembling the key fob is essential after you have replaced the battery. With a screwdriver with a flat blade to gently pry the fob open in several places to prevent breaking the shell. Then, put the fob back together and check its buttons. It's done if everything is in order! If the fob is not working, the problem could be more severe than an unreliable battery. It could have lost its programming, and a locksmith or dealer will need to fix it. The majority of fobs have an option to reset the reset. The process is usually fast however, it will depend on the model of the vehicle and make. The key fob needs to be "programmed again" to transmit the digital identification code to the car's onboard computers. This process is different for each model and year. It usually involves pressing buttons or levers while triggering the power. Some retailers, such as some auto parts stores as well as locksmiths will program aftermarket keys purchased online. But CR's Yu warns that these devices could not function properly, and can be difficult to fix. If you decide to purchase remote keys from a third-party vendor, be sure that the seller is trustworthy and look over the fine print to determine whether the fob needs dealer programming. Certain retailers, such as some Audi dealerships, require that you visit them to get an external fob programmed.