Lost Car Key Service
A few years ago the loss or misplacement of your car keys wasn't an issue. But nowadays it's an immense inconvenience and potential security risk.
The cost to replace the lost car keys vary depending on the type of keys used and your vehicle. Here are the steps needed to get back on the road.
Emergency Service
The loss of a car key used to be a major hassle. People would keep a spare key in their purses or pockets so that if they lost the main key, they could return to the road. It's now more costly and difficult to replace a key for vehicles than it was in the past. In some cases the process could take as long as one week and cost hundreds of dollars.
You might need to locate a locksmith or go to an auto dealer based on your vehicle's needs to make an entirely new key. Some companies provide this service at a cost however, you must check to ensure that the company you choose is certified and licensed in your area. You should also take a look at your insurance coverage in order to determine if you are covered.
A roadside assistance service is an alternative option. This is a faster option than going to an auto dealer or auto locksmith. It depends on your car and the equipment that the breakdown service has to do the job. The best solution is to contact an auto locksmith in the area for assistance, since they typically have the necessary equipment onboard to offer this service in a timely way.
In some instances, you can get the replacement key by calling the manufacturer of your car. Many manufacturers have online key ordering services but you'll be required to provide proof of ownership and pay the cost. Some insurance policies also cover keys that are lost which is why you should verify.
If you have a standard car key it is typically cheaper to duplicate it rather than replace it. You will require a working key to duplicate the key. This is due to the fact that you must make the correct cuts, and then put the mechanism back together. It also requires programming the chip into the new key to function with your car.
The majority of people lose their car keys when they are in a rush and it is therefore essential to have a backup key with you at all times. Keep a keychain with a lock in your trunk to quickly access it should you lose your keys.
Lockout Service
One of the most horrible things that can happen to a car owner or driver is getting locked out of their vehicle. A majority of people have experienced this at some point and it can be a hassle and inconvenient. The good thing is that there are a lot of services to help you get back in your car when this occurs.
If you own a manual or remote car key, a lockout service can help you out when you require it the most. A professional locksmith will be able to unlock your vehicle swiftly and provide you a brand new car key when needed. They can also help to repair broken locks or keys that have become jammed in the door or ignition. They have had to deal with everything, so they will know what to do even in the most difficult of situations.
If you've lost your keys or have them locked inside your car the first thing you should do is remain calm and call for assistance. You can expect a response in 30 minutes or less. You can contact most services anytime, day or night. Most services are accessible all hours of the day, knowing that people don't lock themselves out of vehicles for no reason.
The cost of a lockout service for your vehicle is contingent on what type of vehicle you have and the kind of key it has. Certain kinds of keys are easily replaced while others might require a more complex procedure. You can refer to the owner's manual for specifics on how to replace a specific type of key. If you lose your keys, consider whether or not your insurance policy will cover the cost.
If you're looking for a locksmith to assist you in an awkward situation, select one who has experience with different types of vehicles. You'll also want to ensure that they have a strong reputation as well as being insured and licensed. If you can, choose an organization with at least five years' experience in the field.
Transponder Keys
If your car has transponder keys, they will need to have the correct programming in order to start your car. A normal transponder key is a metallic key with a plastic cap (like the one shown above). Inside, there is a microchip that sends the vehicle a signal each time you insert it into the ignition. If the signal is matched the car's, it will start. This technology was designed to discourage car theft, and it has proven successful - the number of cars stolen has dropped significantly since it was introduced.
You will need to take your vehicle to a professional to obtain a new transponder. In general, you will require a visit to your local automotive locksmith or dealer. In the dealership, it's more expensive as they will need to match your new key with your specific vehicle. If you have a spare key that has a transponder, you can skip going to a dealership.
You can usually get a replacement from your local AutoZone or automotive store. The staff at these stores will be able to cut the key and then use a specific machine in order to program it for your vehicle. This will help you save the cost of having to go to the dealership and may even assist you in avoiding towing fees!
The primary reason to have transponder keys is to stop car theft. In the past, thieves could put the key into the ignition and turn it on using a method known as hot wiring. This was a simple method for thieves because they just had to touch the two wires of the car and the keys. This was much simpler to accomplish prior to the introduction of transponder key.
Transponder keys are a great option to secure your car from theft. This is because the transponder will prevent your car from starting if it is not programmed to match the signal that the key sends to the vehicle. This prevents thieves from being able hot wire your vehicle which makes it more difficult for them to rob your vehicle.
Remote Keys
In the past, losing or misplacing your car keys was not an issue. If you had a spare, it was easy to call roadside assistance or locksmith assistance and get back on the road. Nowadays, however, the procedure is more complex. Depending on the vehicle's model and year, replacing lost or theft keys may take a few steps and cost you a few hundred dollars. This is one reason why it's important to keep a backup key in a secure location.
Most cars manufactured after 1995 have transponder chips built into their key fobs. These chips are designed to work only with your car. It's important that you find a locksmith that has experience in your car type if you lose your key fob.
A reputable locksmith for cars can replace your lost key without the original fob. They'll be able program the new key so that it can control the locks and ignition in your car. They might also be able repair your current key to make it work as new.
Another option is to have a replacement key made using the VIN number of your car. It is possible to get this done through a dealership or locksmith however it's likely to cost more. This method also only works when the code for your specific vehicle is in place, which isn't always the situation.
You can also ask a locksmith to change the key on your lock to ensure that even if you own the original key, anyone using it will be unable to open your doors or start your engine. Rekeying your locks is a less expensive alternative to purchasing a new key and is a great way to add an extra layer of security to your vehicle.
Losing your car keys is stressful, especially if don't have an extra. It's important to be calm and take the necessary steps to seek help. With a little bit of research, you can find the best lost car keys service for your needs.