Are You Tired of Calling a Tow Truck Every Time You Lock Your Car?

We all lose our car keys at one point. Unfortunately, it usually happens at the most inconvenient times.

There are a few factors that affect how much car key duplication costs. One factor is the type of key you have. Another factor is the time it takes to duplicate.

Car Key Replacement

Losing your car keys is an inconvenience. It usually happens at the most inconvenient times like when you’re loading groceries into your trunk or getting ready to head home after a long day of work.

Depending on the type of key you have, it could be expensive to replace. Typically, it will cost more to get a replacement from the dealership than an outside professional locksmiths.

Dealerships require you to have your car towed back to them, show proof of ownership and order the new key. They then must pair the new computer chip with your vehicle which can take a few days.

Check if you have roadside assistance coverage through your car insurance provider or your warranty. Sometimes they will cover the costs of a key replacement and you’ll only need to pay for your towing. If not, you can find a local locksmith to make you one at a much lower price than the dealership.

Car Key Fob Replacement

Car key fobs send a signal to the car to unlock its doors or start its engine. If you lose yours, you may need to visit a dealer or licensed locksmith to replace it. This is because newer keys have embedded chips that need to be programmed to work with a specific vehicle.

Many automakers include instructions for do-it-yourself fob programming in their owner's manuals or on the Internet. However, the process can be time-consuming and complicated, especially if you're not familiar with your vehicle's security system.

Some people find it easiest to have a professional do the job. An auto locksmith or an automotive dealer can usually replace a car key fob quickly and cheaply. They also offer services such as cutting and programming spares for an additional fee. Check your car's warranty, auto-insurance policy or roadside assistance coverage to see if they cover the cost of a new key fob. If not, you should purchase an inexpensive self-programmable replacement.

Car Key Programming

Most modern cars require that a new key fob or transponder chip be programmed to the vehicle in order to work. This is to prevent car thieves from hot-wiring cars (think T-800 in Terminator) and driving them away.

Luckily, there are tools available to the locksmith that can be used to program these new keys and remotes. It’s important to work with a company that is experienced and has invested in the right equipment. Pop-A-Lock has both the equipment and experience to make this process fast, affordable, and reliable.

Depending on the make and model, this process can take 10 minutes to an hour or so. It’s a good idea to inquire about a time estimate with your locksmith or dealership before having the service done. It could save you some money if you can schedule the programming at a time that works for you.

Car Key Repair

There’s no question that losing your car keys is one of the most frustrating things that can happen to a driver. It’s like losing your ticket to mobility, and it can cause you to miss appointments and reduce your ability to get around. It’s also not cheap. Unless you have roadside assistance included in your vehicle’s coverage, or added on as an extra feature to your policy, a replacement key can cost you hundreds of dollars.

Fortunately, the cheapest and easiest option is to call an auto locksmith. Most of these experts are able to make traditional keys on the spot, and they charge much less than a dealership would. They can usually work with any key blank, so you don’t need to find the original to bring with you. Just remember to get your vehicle identification number (VIN) before you do this, which can be found on the dashboard or engine bay of your car, or in your registration or title documents.