5 Laws That Will Help The Lost Key Replacement Car Industry
How to Get a Replacement Car Key
It can be frustrating to lose car key. It can also be costly depending on the model you have.
The easiest way to get an exchange is to contact an auto locksmith. This is usually a cheaper and quicker option than calling roadside assistance or an auto dealer.
Cost
Not long ago, losing your car keys was not a big issue. You could simply go to the local hardware store and get a replacement key. Today, however it's more complex and expensive. The reason for this is that cars have become more technologically advanced, which means their keys are too. This may make them more secure from theft, it also makes them pricier to replace.
The cost to replace keys for a car that have been lost will differ based on the year, model and model of your car. Many newer cars have key fobs with transponder chips to protect against theft. These chips must be paired to your vehicle. This typically requires a dealership or locksmith. The cost of this service will depend on the kind of car you own, but can be as high as $200.
In addition, some modern automobiles use laser-cut keys that need to be programmed by an exact machine, which is only available at dealerships or auto locksmiths that specialize in this. The cost of a spare key in this kind of lock could be as high as $100.
The location of your house can also affect the price. You'll likely need to pay more when you live in an area that is remote because the tow truck and locksmith have to travel far to reach you. Locksmiths will also charge extra for work done on holidays, weekends or after hours.
The best way to reduce the cost of losing a key is to keep a spare one with you and keep it at home or kept in your wallet. Keep your car's title or registration papers on you. These will be required to prove ownership should you need to contact a dealership for a new key. In addition, you can make use of your roadside assistance service to assist with the procedure. You might be able to get an interim replacement based on the conditions and terms of your roadside assistance service.
Time
It can be very frustrating to lose your car keys, but it's important to not be in a panic. First, take a moment to search for your car keys in obvious places such as your purse or pocket. Then, revisit your day to find out where you might have put them. This could help you remember where you left them, or you can find them in your car. If you can't find your car keys, it may be time to purchase a replacement.
The majority of modern cars come with a remote key fob which uses a code to unlock and start the car. This kind of key needs to be reprogrammed so that it can work with your vehicle. This is typically the job of a professional. Contact an auto locksmith and provide evidence of ownership.
The old-fashioned metal keys are more easily replaced than remote fobs for keys. They are 100% mechanical and simple to duplicate. A locksmith in your neighborhood can replace your lost key on the spot. The locksmith can also duplicate your ignition cylinder, however, this comes at a cost. However, if you want to backup your old-school car keys, you can go to an hardware store that specializes in automobiles and have copies of them quickly and inexpensively.
If your car keys are starting to appear worn-out, you should consider replacing them. The teeth on the keys and the lock cylinder could become worn down due to frequent use which makes it difficult to align them correctly with each other. If the key starts to stick, it might be time to replace it.
If you have a newer vehicle and it's an expensive model, the key might require programming by the dealership. This is a complicated job that could take a long time to complete and could cost a lot of money. You could be covered by the warranty on your car or insurance according to the model of your vehicle.
The availability
Even if you're a great driver there is a chance to lose your car keys. This can be a real issue particularly if it happens at an inconvenient moment such as when you're at the supermarket or at the gas station and need to get back home. Fortunately, there are several options to replace your lost key. You can locate a locksmith, contact roadside assistance, or even your insurance company.
The first thing you'll have to determine the kind of car key you have. This is important since different cars use different types of keys. Some are old-school and only lock through the key cylinder and others come with a chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock the doors and start it up. Some of these keys can be replaced with an auto locksmith, however you may need to visit a dealership to get one from the manufacturer if yours is a smart key.
Whether you're using a traditional key or a smart one the first step is to read the instruction manual or contact the dealer for directions on how to program it to your car. You'll need to provide proof that you own the vehicle and wait for a few more days for the dealer to order a replacement. This procedure might also require you bring the vehicle to a locksmith or another service provider to get it programmed, making this the best option for those working on tight schedules or have a limited mobility.
If you have a spare key, the process is much simpler. You can buy an online replacement key for your car at a low price depending on the model of your car. However, if your keys include a key fob and transponder element, you'll need to consult a professional who is qualified to get them replaced and programmed. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, this may mean getting an auto towing service or paying a locksmith to take care of it.
automotive key replacement is another way to get a replacement car key. These tiny devices can be affixed to your keyring and emit a signature which can be retrieved using an iPhone with an app installed. The app will reveal the location of your key so you can easily find it.
Insurance
In general insurance for cars doesn't cover lost keys. There are some exceptions. Some of the best insurance companies, which are committed to ensuring customer satisfaction, provide additional insurance for things like keys that are lost. This is typically an additional fee, but it can be less expensive than paying out-of-pocket for replacement costs for keys.
The policy you choose to use and the amount of the deductible will determine if your insurance policy covers keys that are lost. The majority of traditional keys can be easily replaced, but it may be more difficult if you own an electronic fob or smart key. These keys are laser-cut and use computers to transmit signals to the vehicle, which means they are much more complicated to replace than traditional mechanical keys. These keys are also more expensive as you will need to pay a locksmith as well as the key itself.
If you're trying to save money on a lost key replacement think about using an auto club or roadside assistance. These services may provide discounts for locksmiths and could even pay for the cost of replacing a key. Some of these companies provide emergency lockout services which are useful if you're in a rush and have to get back on the road.
You can also call your car dealership to inquire if they can assist. Locksmiths are typically on hand at most dealerships, and they may be able to make keys for you at reasonable prices. However, if the dealer has to purchase a new key for your vehicle, it can take several days to arrive. Whatever method you choose, make sure to save all receipts and other documentation so that you can submit a claim to your car insurance company should you need to.
Losing keys to your car is a regular event. It's not easy however it could occur to anyone. There are ways to minimize the consequences. The quickest and most affordable method to replace lost car keys is by contacting a local locksmith. However, it is important to evaluate the financial advantages versus the time and expense involved before making an insurance claim.