Ten Myths About Car Replacement Keys That Don't Always Hold

· 6 min read
Ten Myths About Car Replacement Keys That Don't Always Hold

Car Replacement Keys Near Me

It can be difficult to find car keys replacement in your area. Although hardware stores can make traditional car keys made of metal but most modern cars utilize a smart key with a special chip that only a dealership can replace.

A few days later, you're loading your groceries into your trunk, and you realize that your key fob is still at home. Fortunately, many AutoZone locations can cut the key for you and help you program it too.

Lost or Stolen keys

Until recently the loss of your car keys was not a major issue. If  cost of a car key replacement  don't have a spare you can purchase one from the hardware store or locksmith. With the development of modern automobiles, car keys are more complicated and difficult to duplicate. Depending on the model and year, you might have to visit the dealership or a professional locksmith for your vehicle to obtain an entirely new key.

It is important to note down the vehicle identification number (VIN) before heading to a shop for hardware or an auto locksmith. This 17-digit code is found on the dashboard of the driver's side on the windshield frame, and sometimes on other places too such as the front of the engine block, the trunk lid, and more. Your VIN can be located on your insurance documents. You can use the VIN to determine who can replace your keys based on what kind of key you own.

Keys made of traditional design are the most simple to replace and you can go to an auto locksmith and have an entirely new key made on the spot. Usually the cost is around $20 or less. If you have a transponder, switchblade or smart key you will have to contact the dealer. The dealership will be able to inform you of the price an additional key will cost because they have all the details from your original key.

If you've lost your keys in the mall or when running around, make sure you check every pocket in all your clothing, including the inside of your purse. You might have set the keys down for a moment to put something away and then forgot about them. It's possible that you have not lost your keys, but they might be stuck in the ignition or lock. In this case, you can call for roadside assistance and they'll tow your car to a dealer. The dealer will create the new key and then modify the ignition of your car to accept it. Before you visit the dealership, be sure you bring evidence of ownership for example, a V5C document with your name on it.

Keys that are damaged Keys

Many people believe that a damaged lock means they must replace it, however there is the possibility of repairing it. It's not about the binding of a piece of fractured metal together, and it's not as complicated as you might believe.


There are a few different reasons that your car keys might not work, but the most common reason is that they're damaged. If your key is damaged, it's likely that the transponder chips inside the fob as well as in the car door locks have been affected. This stops them from communicating and the key will not work.

Another reason that is commonly cited is water damage. Like smartphones, car keys also have electronic components that could be damaged when submerged in water. It could cause your key to stop working, so you should not take it on outdoor adventures unless you have an alternative.

The lock may be jammed, which causes your key to not work. This is a frequent issue that is often caused by forcing the wrong key into a lock. If you have a spare key, it shouldn't be a problem; however it can be a problem if you don't.

It's a good idea check your key after you've repaired it. You can test this by typing a document into a word processing program or pressing keys at the same time to check whether they're registered correctly.

The cost of replacing your car key is contingent on the type of keys you own the type of key you have, who you choose as locksmith, and what model and make your car is. It's best to research what the average cost is for your particular type of key prior to calling an auto locksmith or a dealership. You'll pay much less for a repaired key than should you purchase an entirely new key. This is particularly the case if you own a more secure key that's difficult for thieves to duplicate.

Key Fobs

Many vehicles sold today come with key fobs that permit owners to lock or open their car by pressing a button. The metal part of the car key still must be turned into the ignition, but the fob makes it more secure and easier than ever. Fobs are very durable, but they don't last for long. They can be expensive to replace if they cease to function.

If your key fob has stopped working, the first thing to do is replace the battery. They are available at big-box stores or hardware stores. They are generally cheap. You may need to conduct some research, but you can find the perfect battery for your car by looking through YouTube videos of users who have replaced their fob batteries.

You can open the fob to see if it has any other issues. Key fobs are jostled a lot and, with time, can sometimes break down or be out of adjustment. The fob should be opened and you can look for the seam. Use a flat-head screwdriver to lightly remove the fob.

Another option is to check for any insurance coverage you may have that could with the cost of the replacement fob. Some basic warranties will cover it, and your auto insurance company or club might offer a partial reimbursement. Also, you should look for any additional key protection plans that you might have purchased from a dealership when you made your purchase.

Compare the cost of the new key fob you can purchase from an auto parts shop to the cost of buying it from a dealership or independent repair shop. Make contact with the manufacturer of your car to see whether there are any discounts for a replacement fob or if you are able to purchase one directly from them at cheaper prices.

Keyless Entry

Unlike traditional or laser-cut keys fobs are equipped with a tiny chip inside that identifies radio signals that are sent by your vehicle when you hit the lock or unlock buttons. The car then transmits an identification code to allow you to begin and access the vehicle.

Keyless entry offers you an abundance of flexibility whether you are looking to improve your safety or add convenience to your driving. With the technology it is possible to roll down your windows and open your trunk, save presets for your memory seat and much more, with just one click, or stand in front of your vehicle. It can also keep your keys from being lost and stolen.

However, keyless entry poses some potential hazards. For instance, drivers could inadvertently leave their vehicles running when they're not in the vehicle which could result in carbon monoxide poisoning inside an enclosed space such as the garage or workshop. Many newer cars can be started by anyone even if they're not the driver. This can pose an extremely risk of fire.

The good news is that you can steer clear of some of these issues if you know the right steps to take. For instance when you're considering installing or replacing your keyless entry system, search for an auto locksmith who has expertise working on your particular model and year. Then, you can be sure the replacement is done correctly and that the system is secure.

If you're looking for a new car, make sure to see what options are available with keyless entry and how much it would cost to add this feature. That way, you'll have an idea of what you're getting when you compare prices for car replacement keys near me.

You can save money by purchasing an old key or an aftermarket key online. Make sure that the one you find has been properly programed by a professional which requires special equipment. It is also important to find out what a dealer would charge for a new key before buying it yourself.