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How to Get a Replacement Car Key It can be very frustrating to lose a car keys. It can also be costly depending on the type you own. Contacting an auto locksmith is the quickest method of replacing a key. This is usually a cheaper and quicker option than calling the roadside assistance line or an auto dealer. Cost A few years ago the loss of your car keys was no big deal. You could go to your local hardware store and get a replacement key made. Today, however the process is more complicated and costly. It's because cars are more technologically advanced, and keys too. This may make them more secure from theft but it also means they are more expensive to replace. The cost to replace keys for a car that have been lost will vary based on the year, model and model of your car. Many newer cars have keys that include transponder chips to protect against theft. These chips must be paired with your vehicle, which typically requires a locksmith or dealer. The cost of this service will depend on the kind of car you have, but can be up to $200. Modern cars also come with laser-cut key that must be programmed using a special machine that is only available at dealerships and auto locksmiths. The cost of a spare key for this type of lock can be as high as $100. The location of your home can also affect the price. You'll likely need to pay more for service when you live in an area that is remote because the tow truck and locksmith have to travel far to get to you. Moreover, a locksmith will be charged extra for holiday or after hours weekend work. You can lower the cost of replacing a lost car key by keeping a spare key at home or in your wallet. Keep your car's title or registration papers on you. These documents will be required to prove ownership if you need to contact the dealership to request a new key. You can also call your roadside service for assistance. They might be able to provide you with an interim replacement, based on their terms and conditions. Time is a factor. The loss of your car keys can be a hassle However, don't panic. Make sure to look for your keys in obvious places, such as your purse or pocket. You can then go back and recall your day to determine where you might have lost them. This could help you remember where you lost them, or you can find them in your car. If you're not able to locate your car keys, it may be time to find a replacement. The majority of modern vehicles come with a remote key fob that utilizes a number of codes to unlock and start the vehicle. This kind of key has to be programmed with your specific vehicle and this is usually a task for a professional. Contact an auto locksmith and bring evidence of ownership. The old-fashioned keys made of metal are much easier to replace than the remote key fobs. They are completely mechanical and are easy to duplicate. A locksmith in your neighborhood can replace your key on the spot. They can also duplicate the ignition cylinder for your vehicle as an additional expense. If you'd like to keep backups of the keys to your old car, you can go to an hardware store that specializes in automobiles and have copies of them quickly and inexpensively. It is also advisable to replace your car keys if they're starting to appear worn down. Regular use can wear away the teeth on the key and make it difficult to align them correctly. If the key begins to become stuck inside the lock, it's also a sign that it is time for a replacement. key fob replacement may have to program the key if you have an older model or a luxury automobile. This is a complicated job that can take a long time to complete and can cost a lot of money. Depending on your car's make it is possible to have the process covered by your vehicle warranty or car insurance. Availability Even if you're an excellent driver it's still possible to lose your car keys. This can be a real problem, especially if it happens at a time that isn't convenient, such as when you're at the grocery store or gas station and want to get back home. Fortunately, there are several options to replace your lost key. You can contact your insurance company or find a locksmith in your area, or contact roadside assistance. The first thing you'll need determine the kind of car key you have. This is important because various cars have different kinds of keys. Some are old-fashioned and lock via the key cylinder while others include a chip that communicates with the car to unlock the doors and open it up. Certain keys can be easily repaired by an auto-locksmith while others may require you to visit a dealer for a replacement from the manufacturer. No matter if you're using a conventional key or a smart key the first step should be to read the manual or call the dealership for directions on how to connect it to your vehicle. You'll need proof that you own the vehicle and then wait a few extra days for your dealer to request an alternative. This procedure will also require that you take your vehicle to a locksmith or another service provider, to have it programmed. This isn't the best choice for those who are unable to move or have tight schedules. If you have a spare key the process is much easier. You can buy an online replacement key for your car at a cost that is affordable based on the model of your vehicle. If your keys include a key fob and transponder element, you'll need consult a professional who is qualified to have them replaced and programmed. Depending on the brand and model of your vehicle this could require a tow to the dealership or paying a locksmith to complete the task for you. Another method of getting a new car key is by using a Bluetooth tracker. These small devices attach to your keyring and emit a unique signature which can be retrieved by a smartphone with an application installed. The app will reveal the location of your key, so you can easily find it. Insurance Car insurance coverage typically does not cover the cost of lost keys. However, there are exceptions. Read the Full Content of the most reputable insurance companies, which are committed to ensuring customer satisfaction, provide additional insurance for things such as keys lost. This is usually an additional cost, but it could be less expensive than having to pay out of pocket for the cost of replacing keys. Whether or not insurance for cars covers lost keys depends on the specific policy and deductible. Metal keys are generally simple to replace, however if you have an electronic fob or smart key the process can be more difficult. These keys are laser-cut and use computers that transmit a signal to your vehicle. They are therefore more difficult to replace than mechanical keys. Furthermore, these kinds of keys are more expensive due to the fact that you'll have to pay for locksmith services as well as the cost of a new key. Think about using an auto club service or roadside assistance to save money in the event of replacing a lost key. These services can provide discounts for locksmiths, and they may even reimburse you for the cost of a replacement. Some of these companies provide emergency lockout services which are useful if you're in a rush and are trying to get back on the road. Another option is to call your car dealer to inquire whether they can assist you. Locksmiths are typically on hand at all dealerships and they may be able to make keys at a reasonable price. If the dealer needs to order a key for your particular model it could take a few days. Regardless of which method you choose, be sure to save all receipts and other documentation to submit a claim to the insurance company of your car should you need to. Although it's not a pleasant experience losing your car keys can occur to anyone. However, there are strategies to avoid the costly consequences. The quickest and cheapest way to replace keys for your car is making contact with a locksmith local to you. However, it is important to evaluate the financial advantages versus the time and deductible payments involved before making an insurance claim.