We often ignore the importance of car keys until they are lost or no longer work. Without a key, the car won't start and you can't go for a drive. Fortunately, if you are in a pinch, there are several ways to replace a lost or damaged car key. In some cases, car keys can be replaced without spending a lot of money.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Replacing the Old Car Key
Step 1. Write down the VIN number of the car
You need this number to find someone who will help you change the lock. On most cars, the VIN is located on the driver's front dashboard and can be seen through the window, but it can also be located behind the steering wheel or in front of the engine block, in the trunk or doorpost, or on the car frame between the carburetor and windshield cleaner.
- If you doubt the location of the vehicle's VIN, try looking for the number in the car insurance information. Usually, it's in the upper-left corner of each page.
- The VIN number consists of 17 digits letters and numbers. The letters I, O and Q are not included in the VIN to avoid being confused with the numbers 1 and 0. This method can only be done after 1981. Before 1954, there was no VIN number.
Step 2. Write down the year, manufacturer, and model of the vehicle
No matter what steps you take to get your new car keys, you will need to have this information ready as it determines the type of key your vehicle will need. Remember, keys are supposed to be unique!
Step 3. Call the nearest car locksmith
This is your first option. Usually, they offer the best price for a new lock, about half the price the manufacturer or dealer offers. Usually the fare comes is also not billed. The locksmith will open the car and pair a new key. While hardware stores usually don't have the equipment to make a new key (except simply backing it up), locksmiths usually have all the tools you need. The older the vehicle, the greater the chance that a locksmith can help you replace your vehicle keys.
If you have lost your key fob (vehicle key remote control), a good locksmith can help make new keys, depending on their level of sophistication. In addition, they can also reprogram a new key, although how to do this is described in the vehicle's user manual. Make sure you bring another vehicle key fob as sometimes it won't work until a new key is programmed. Some cars require special equipment to program locks, and it's likely that locksmiths and dealers already have it
Step 4. Search the internet for new keys and key fobs at discounted prices
Sometimes used keys or new factory keys can be purchased on the internet at a cheaper price or at a discount. You can look for a trusted dealer online shop, but also try to find a specialist car key replacement company. Again, the older the vehicle and the simpler the keys, the easier it will be to replace them. You can try looking around on Amazon. However, you should be aware that some vehicles require special equipment to replace and program keys. Find someone who is willing to cut and program a key obtained online before buying. Also compare the cost of programming with the cost of buying a new key.
Method 2 of 3: Replacing a New Electronic Car Key
Step 1. Check if the warranty or car insurance can cover the cost of replacing the keys
If you have a very new or high-end car, the keys may not be able to be replaced unless they go through the manufacturer or distributor. In this case, you may be able to get a discount through the warranty. Bring all car information, valid photo ID and any other set of keys in possession to the dealer. Wish you the best!
Step 2. Visit a locksmith
Depending on the level of sophistication of the car keys, it is likely that a new electronic key will need to be programmed by a locksmith. Many new car keys have a microchip that prevents copying. However, if you have a car key with a transponder, you may be able to buy a new one from a repair shop for around IDR 750,000-IDR 1,650,000, depending on the car and area. Manufacturers started using a transponder in 1990, which is a chip in the head of a key that communicates with the car. If a different key is inserted into the ignition gap (ignition), the car will not start. Transponder keys can be obtained at the workshop.
Step 3. Purchase an aftermarket (manufacturer) key as a replacement car key
Enter the keyword “aftermarket electronic car keys” in the Google search engine to find electronic car keys. Sometimes you can even find new keys that are up to 75% off. However, you will still need to cut and program the key so be sure to check the normal prices in your area before buying.
Step 4. Get a new set of keys from the dealer
The cost can go up to more than IDR 3,000,000. This option is worth considering if you want a key that will definitely work and get it quickly and easily. Visit a local dealer; if your car is a Honda brand, visit a Honda dealer. If your car is a Toyota, go to a Toyota dealer.
Step 5. Program the new key to the car
Sometimes, you can program the keys to a particular vehicle without a specialist technician. Usually instructions for use are included with the new key, but a user manual will be very helpful in this situation. Depending on the car, reprogramming is usually accomplished by opening and closing doors and/or turning lights and other electronic devices on and off. Basically you press a series of buttons like code.
Method 3 of 3: Replacing the Broken Electronic Lock
Step 1. Wait
Sometimes, hot or cold weather can cause electronic locks to stop working properly. Also, if you run while holding your keys, the sweat on your hands can get into the gaps in the keys and cause problems. Leave the key for a while to test it again later. Who knows, the lock might work again.
Step 2. Reset all keys
the key fob may stop working after the car's electrical system has been replaced or repaired (e.g. the battery is replaced). Read the vehicle's user manual (or search the internet) and reset all keys according to the instructions provided.
Step 3. Replace the battery
If you notice that your lock isn't working properly for a few days, it's likely that the battery is low. The price of a new battery for a key fob is usually cheap and is widely sold on the internet, electronics stores, or repair shops. Make sure you have the car manufacturer, model, year and VIN number ready. Most lock batteries can be replaced easily; simply unscrew the back screw with a plus screwdriver, remove the old battery, and install the new battery. Finished!
You can also go directly to a dealer or car manufacturer, but they are usually more expensive, especially if you charge a technician to install a new battery. Check the car warranty to see if a key battery replacement is included
Step 4. Reprogram the key
If you don't want to do it yourself, ask a repair shop staff or even a car dealer for help. However, you can try following the directions in the vehicle user manual. Usually, a reset is done by pressing a series of buttons in a certain order, but every vehicle is different. Check your vehicle's user manual.
Tips
- Only buy new keys at the dealer as a last resort. The price at this dealer is twice the other options.
- Always read the user manual to find out how to reprogram your car keys. Don't guess. Some cars don't list it in the user manual, but you can find out how from a key fob dealer or the internet.
- Before buying anything on the internet, make sure you have a way to bypass and program the keys. Some key fobs can be programmed by yourself, others have to be programmed by repair shop staff or dealers. So, choose the best.
- Dealers and repair shop staff will charge for programming whether the results are good or bad so make sure you get the right parts from a trusted supplier.
- A repair shop warranty often includes a reprogramming fee, whereas an online shop warranty will provide a new fob but you'll have to pay a reprogramming fee. Sometimes it's better to pay extra and get the keys from a repair shop.
- Always have spare keys available to prevent losing all keys.
- If you are locked out of your car and need a new key immediately, contact your auto insurance company or car customer service. If you leave your car keys in the car, they can open the car for you.
- If you subscribe to OnStar, don't forget that they can unlock your vehicle remotely if you provide the operator with your VIN and personal VIN.
