Have you lost your car keys? Most of the time, after a sweeping search, you’re probably able to locate your missing keys. But what if you can’t? Read on to learn some tips on replacing your car keys.
- Call a Nearby Auto Locksmith –This should be your first option. They generally they will give you the best deal on a new key, about half as much as it would cost to get a new key from your manufacturer or dealer. Normally they don’t charge to visit the car either. They’ll open your car and then proceed to make you a new key. While hardware stores aren’t generally equipped to create new car keys (as opposed to simply copying them), locksmiths usually have more sophisticated machinery. The older your vehicle, the better the odds that a locksmith will be able to help you with a replacement key.
If you lost a key fob, a good locksmith may be able to help you make a new one – depending on how sophisticated the key was. Additionally, they should be able to help you reprogram the replacement key, though your manual should also have instructions on how to do that. Be sure to bring any other key fobs associated with that vehicle with you, as they sometimes won’t work until the new key is programmed. Source: WikiHow
- Claim On Your Car Insurance – If your car key is lost or stolen you may be able to claim for the cost of a replacement on your motor policy.
Some insurers like Nationwide and Co-op bank offer key cover automatically on their standard car insurance policies. Nationwide offer unlimited cover and Co-op will pay up to £750 if your keys are stolen.
With other insurers including M&S Money and Sainsbury’s Finance you’ll only get cover for both lost and stolen keys with their ‘Premier’ cover and both pay out up to £1,000 for new keys or replacement locks. In some cases, as with the M&S policy, there’s no excess to pay. Source: Confused
- Determine What Type of Key to Buy – There are different types of keys for different cars. Older cars have simple keys with teeth that fit into the door or ignition and allow the owner to turn the lock. Newer cars have keys that are inserted in the same way as older keys, but that also contain programmable chips for an added layer of security. Without proper programming, the key will not work, even if someone cuts the key to match the key needed for the ignition. The only way these keys will work is if someone programs the chip properly.
Some keys do not look like traditional keys at all. These keys are smart keys. Th ey look like a small remote control or key fob, and allow the owner to open and start the car without the use of a traditional key.
Understanding which type of key a car owner needs is essential to replacing it without the original. The owner has to buy a replacement key blank or a replacement smart key fob before having the key cut or programmed. It is essential to purchase the proper key blank or replacement smart key fob. Source: Ebay
We hope this article provided some much needed information to help you replace your keys. If you’d like more tips, please give us a call.
Many locksmiths in Calgary area are looking to cut corners and reduce their accountability. Ask your locksmith if they are fully licensed, bonded and insured – Like we are. 
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