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How to Get a Replacement Car Key Losing a car key can be a stressful experience. It can also be costly depending on the kind of key you've got. A call to an auto locksmith is the most efficient way to replace the key. This is typically less expensive and quicker than calling an auto dealership or roadside assistance. Cost In the past lost your car keys was no big deal. You could just visit your local hardware store and get an alternative key made. Fortunately, today the process is more complex and expensive. This is because cars are more technologically advanced and their keys too. While this could make keys more secure from theft, they are also more expensive to replace. The cost of replacing keys for a car that have been lost will differ based on the year, model and model of your car. Many modern cars come with key fobs with a transponder chip in them to help prevent theft. The chips must be linked to your vehicle. This typically requires a locksmith or a dealer. The cost can vary based on the type of car you own, but it can reach $200. auto key replacement come with laser-cut key that must be programmed using a specific machine only found at dealerships and auto locksmiths. The cost of a spare key in this kind of lock could be as high as $100. Another aspect that can affect the cost of a lost key is where you live. If you are located in a remote area there is a chance that you will need to pay a premium for service because the locksmith or tow truck has to travel a distance to arrive at. A locksmith may also charge extra for work done on holidays, weekends, or after-hours. The best way to cut down on the cost of losing a key is to have a spare one with you and keep it at home or kept in your wallet. Keep your vehicle's title or registration documents on you. They will be required to prove ownership should you need to contact a dealership for a new key. Additionally, you can make use of your roadside assistance service to help with the procedure. You may be able get temporary replacements based on the terms and conditions of your roadside assistance service. Time is a factor. It can be very frustrating to lose your car keys, however it's important to not panic. Make sure to look for your keys in easy places, such as your pocket or purse. You can then go back and recall your day to find out the places you may have left them. This will aid in determining if you've lost them or if they're still in your car. It's probably time to replace your car keys if you can't find them. The majority of newer vehicles have a remote key fob which uses the code to unlock and start the vehicle. This kind of key has to be reprogrammed in order to work with the specific vehicle you own, and this is usually a task for a professional. Contact an auto locksmith and bring proof of ownership. Old-fashioned metal keys for cars are much easier to replace than remote fobs for keys. They operate 100% mechanically and aren't difficult to duplicate, so an expert locksmith in your area can provide you an immediate replacement if you've lost one. They can also duplicate the ignition cylinder of your vehicle as an additional expense. If you'd like to have backups of your old-fashioned car keys you can visit an hardware store that specializes in automobiles, and get copies of them quickly and inexpensively. If your car keys are starting to look worn out it is recommended to replace them. The teeth on the keys and the lock cylinder can be worn down by the use of the keys over time, making it difficult for them to align correctly with each other. If the key starts to stick, it might be time to replace it. If you own a brand new car and it is an expensive model, the key might require programming by the dealership. This is a complex job that is costly and take a long period of time to complete. Depending on your car's make you might be able to have the work covered by your vehicle warranty or insurance. Availability Even if your driving is excellent, you can still lose your keys. This can be a huge hassle, especially if it occurs at the most inconvenient moment like when you're at a gas station or at the grocery store and you're just trying to go home. There are several ways to replace keys that have been lost. You can find a locksmith, contact roadside assistance, or call your insurance company. The first thing you'll need do is identify the type of car key you own. This is crucial because the different vehicles use different types of keys. Some are old-fashioned and lock through the key cylinder while others have a chip that communicates with the car to unlock the doors and open it up. Some keys can be replaced with an auto locksmith, but you may have to visit a dealership to order one from the manufacturer if yours is smart keys. Whether you're using a traditional key or a smart one, your first step is to read the instruction manual or contact the dealer for directions on how to program it to your vehicle. You will need to provide proof that you own the vehicle and wait a few extra days for the dealer to make an order for an alternative. This process will also require that you take your vehicle to a locksmith, or another service provider to get it programmed. It's not the best choice for people with limited mobility or strict schedules. The process is much easier in the event that you have an extra. You can purchase a replacement car key online at a cost that is affordable based on the model of your vehicle. If, however, your keys include a key fob and transponder element, you'll have to visit a qualified expert to have them replaced and programmed. Depending on the model and make you may have to have it towed at the dealer, or hire a locksmith replace the key. Another way to get a new car key is by using a bluetooth tracker. These tiny devices can be affixed to your keyring and emit an electronic signature that can be picked up using a mobile phone that has an app installed. The app will show you the location of your key so you can locate it easily. Insurance Typically insurance for cars doesn't cover lost keys. However, there are exceptions. Some of the most reputable insurance companies, that are committed to ensuring customer satisfaction, offer additional coverage for things like lost keys. It is usually an extra cost, but it can be less expensive than paying out of pocket for key replacement costs. The specific policy and deductible will determine whether or not your car insurance covers keys lost. The majority of traditional metal keys can be replaced easily, but it may be more difficult if you own an electronic fob, or smart key. These keys are laser-cut and use chips that transmit an electronic signal to the vehicle, meaning they're more difficult to replace than traditional mechanical keys. These keys are also more expensive, since you'll have to pay a locksmith and the key itself. If you're looking to cut costs on a lost key replacement think about using an auto club or roadside assistance. These services may offer discounted rates for locksmiths and could even pay for the cost of replacing a key. Some of these companies also offer emergency lockout services which are useful when you're in a hurry and have to get back on the road. You can also call your car dealer to see if it can assist. Locksmiths are typically on hand at most dealerships, and they may be able to make keys for you at reasonable prices. If the dealer has to make a key for the model you have it could take several days. Keep all receipts and documents whatever method you decide to use. This will enable you to file a claim if needed with your insurance company. Losing your car keys is a regular event. It's not pleasant however, it can occur to anyone. There are ways to minimize the consequences. The quickest and most affordable method to replace keys to your car is by 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 filing an insurance claim.