Auto Key Replacement
At one time or another, most people have lost their car keys. You can often track them down by retracing your steps, but that’s not always the case. If you need to replace your car key, you can rely on Lexington Car Keys to quickly get you back on the road.
How much does a Replacement Key Cost?
The cost of replacing a car varies with many factors, including the type of key needed. Most cars have a combination of mechanical, transponder, and smart keys.
Mechanical keys are basic metal designs that are easily cut with a key-cutting machine. Laser-cut keys are more precise, with cuts on both sides of the key so that you can use it in any direction. This essential type is the least expensive, averaging less than $100.
Transponder keys have an embedded chip that activates when you turn them in the ignition. The chip communicates with an anti-theft device known as an immobilizer, which must recognize the key before it will start the car. A transponder key must be programmed so your car will recognize it. The cost to make a new transponder key ranges from $100 to $250.
Cars that start with a push button have smart keys that use radio frequencies to communicate with the vehicle and start the ignition. Replacing a smart key usually costs between $200 and $400.
What else can an Auto Locksmith Do?
Automotive locksmiths can do much more than replace your car key. You can call on a locksmith to help you with many things, including:
- Unlock your car when you lock the keys inside. While it’s frustrating, a locksmith can quickly open any car door.
- If you use a mechanical key and it breaks in the door or the ignition, a locksmith can extract it. We don’t recommend removing it yourself, particularly if the key is in the ignition, as this can cause damage.
- Sometimes, the ignition is the problem; a locksmith can help with that, too. While they may be unable to fix it on the spot, a locksmith can repair or replace ignitions at a lower cost than a dealership.
- If you have the key fob but it’s not working, a locksmith can repair it. Key fob problems are often caused by a dead battery or a need for reprogramming.
- If your key won’t open the door or start the car using the ignition, you may need a locksmith to rekey the lock cylinders. The same is true for the ignition. Rekeying lock cylinders on vehicles is similar to repairing and replacing locks on your home’s doors.
How to Replace a Lost Car Key
When your car key is permanently missing, the first step is to call a locksmith. You will need personal identification and proof of ownership, such as the registration or title. A locksmith can gather important information using your vehicle identification number (VIN). No two cars have the same VIN; you can find it on the driver’s side door jamb or the windshield on the lower left of the driver’s side. It is also on insurance and lease documents.
Why call a Locksmith to Replace a Car Key?
Automotive locksmiths come to your location, which is helpful when you can’t drive your car. We have the proper equipment to create nearly any key on the spot, so you won’t have to wait days for one to arrive via mail. Since our specialty is locks, we have expertise that hardware and auto parts stores don’t. You’ll also pay significantly less than if you were to take your car to a dealership or general mechanic.
Why Choose Lexington Car Keys?
There are many locksmiths in town, so why should you choose us? Lexington Car Keys offers unmatched customer service and has technicians available 24/7 to assist you with emergencies. We realize your time is valuable, so we quickly dispatch a locksmith to your location. Our technicians have ample training and field experience, and we offer free estimates.
When you need a key replaced, save time and money by working with Lexington Car Keys. We have competitive pricing and friendly, knowledgeable locksmiths. Call us at
(859) 629-1841 for all your locksmithing needs. Lexington Car Keys serves Lexington, KY, and the surrounding areas.