Losing car keys is a stressful experience. Luckily, a reputable NYC automotive locksmith can help. They can make a new key and fob that will work with your vehicle. They will need to know the year, make and model of your vehicle as well as its VIN number.
Moreover, they can also reprogram your smart key if it has been damaged or lost.
Cost
The cost of car key replacement locksmith services can vary depending on what kind of car you have. Traditional double-edged keys can be made for about $10 at a hardware store, while an automotive locksmith may charge more to come to your location and make the replacement. They will need to know the year, make and model of your vehicle as well as a way to verify that you are its owner. This could mean providing a copy of your registration or title.
Newer cars have transponder chips in their keys that must be paired with your car to start it. This can only be done at a dealership or by an auto locksmith who has access to the proper equipment. Key fobs are becoming more common as they allow drivers to lock and unlock their vehicles with a button, but these can be much more expensive to replace. They will also require that the key be programmed, which can be done at a dealership for $150-$200 or by an automotive locksmith for less.
Time
Unlike car dealerships, which often take an extended amount of time to replace lost or broken car keys, locksmiths can usually get the job done in a matter of minutes. Moreover, a car key replacement locksmith will be able to work on vehicles of any make and model.
In addition to having a key that fits your ignition, a professional locksmith can also help you rekey your locks, which will prevent other people from accessing your vehicle. This is especially helpful if you’re worried that your lost or stolen key could be used to steal your car.
Moreover, locksmiths have the equipment and knowledge to replace smart keys that use an electronic transponder chip to start your vehicle. These types of keys are more secure and help to prevent auto theft by disabling the vehicle’s ignition if it’s not the correct key. In some cases, you can even get these keys replaced without the original key, which can be very convenient for those who frequently lose their keys.
Experience
Losing your car keys is a frustrating experience, but you have several options for replacing them. You can either go to a dealership or use a reputable NYC locksmith. Choosing the right option depends on what kind of key you have and how much you’re willing to spend.
Car locks and security systems have become increasingly sophisticated over the years. Most modern cars use smart keys that activate a proximity sensor in the vehicle’s ignition system and allow keyless entry. While traditional keys can be made at most hardware stores, you’ll need to go to a dealership for a smart key replacement.
Auto locksmiths also have the expertise to cut and program new keys for all types of vehicles. They can even replace a broken key in the lock without damaging it. Moreover, they have the tools and knowledge to remove bent or stuck keys. They can also help you acquire a key code if all of your keys are lost.
Insurance
Some car insurance providers offer a key replacement add-on for their policies, usually in partnership with a roadside assistance company. If you have this coverage and you lose your keys, the insurer will typically cover the cost of the locksmith service up to a set amount. It is best to keep receipts and invoices in case you need to file a claim with your insurance provider later.
Generally, this coverage covers the basic locksmith services but does not include the cost of a new key fob or remote. This is because a new key fob can cost over $200, and most locksmiths do not have the equipment to program them on site.
Outside of auto insurance, some warranty companies and breakdown coverage providers also offer this type of coverage. Checking with these companies may save you the need to pay for a Car key replacement locksmith service out of pocket and can help you avoid accumulating debts.
