Are you thinking about purchasing a car key from an online supplier? While the internet might seem like a great way to save money when buying keys, key fobs, or proximity keys, you should be cautious. Even if the business is legitimate, it’s not the most dependable way to buy a new key. There are several reasons why you should be careful when buying car keys online. With over 35 years of experience in the locksmith and security industry, Sure Lock & Key is here to inform you about the risks involved.
Is it Safe to Buy Car Keys Online?
When you buy a car key online, it is highly unlikely to be a certified product, which could lead to issues down the line. These keys are typically sourced from the aftermarket, meaning the electronic components and materials are not produced by the original manufacturer, resulting in lower quality.
If you decide to buy car keys online, it’s crucial to find reliable suppliers rather than settling for the first website you encounter on Google. Before reaching out to them, ensure you have all the specific details of the key you need, including the original key part number and button configuration.
When purchasing a key online, you should be prepared to present identification and proof of ownership. If the seller doesn’t require this, it’s best to look for an alternative provider.
In reality, most online sellers don’t charge significantly less than professional locksmiths. However, the difference lies in the assurance of quality and service. With a qualified locksmith, you can be confident that your key will function correctly and that you’ll receive high-quality service. Additionally, the key will come with a warranty. If you want to ensure the quality of your keys, the logical choice is to buy from a professional locksmith who can offer reliable automotive locksmith services.
Where is the Safest Place to Buy Car Keys?
The safest option is to buy keys directly from a locksmith because they guarantee both quality and reliability. Although buying online seems appealing due to potential savings, it comes with significant risks. By hiring a professional locksmith, the chances of encountering problems are minimized. If any issues arise with your new key, you can easily seek assistance from a locksmith since you’ll have a warranty. Moreover, an experienced locksmith can guide you towards the most suitable option. We recommend sourcing keys only from trusted suppliers, even if it costs slightly more. In the long run, it’s undoubtedly worth it.
Can a Locksmith Make a Key Without the Original?
You might be curious whether there are professional locksmiths who can make replacement car keys without the original. The answer is straightforward—yes! A skilled locksmith can create a new set of keys that will work with your existing locks.
A well-trained technician can replicate a key without having the original. Locksmiths possess specialized tools and equipment that enable them to create an exact duplicate of your old key. They achieve this through various methods:
One common technique involves creating car keys using an imprint. This method requires a blank key, which is then shaped using files and appropriate tools. The blank key is inserted into the lock, allowing the pins within the lock cylinder to align. This process, known as tethering, helps the locksmith identify the areas of the key that need filing. The key is inserted and removed multiple times until the correct cuts are achieved. It’s a delicate process requiring the expertise of a trained and experienced technician.
Another approach is disassembling the lock. If imprinting proves too complex or unsuccessful, the locksmith may need to take apart the lock. This allows the technician to reverse-engineer the arrangement of the pins inside. While this method can sometimes cause damage to the lock’s internal mechanisms, it should only be attempted by someone with extensive experience. Once completed successfully, the key blank can be cut according to the new pin configuration, ensuring the lock functions just as smoothly as the original.
Lastly, cutting the key by code is another effective method. Many popular lock manufacturers include key codes on both the key and the lock itself. These codes can often be found in the locksmith’s manual. Using this unique code, a technician can match the new key to the old lock. To accomplish this, the technician needs a code cutter and a compatible key blank.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Car Key?
If your car is relatively modern (mid to late 1990s or newer), replacing the key yourself might be possible. However, these methods are increasingly outdated and often exploited by criminals. Nowadays, cars are designed to recognize specific keys, and you typically need the original barcode tags that come with the new key. Used keys rarely include these tags, and some manufacturers make these barcodes non-reusable for enhanced security. In such cases, programming the car to recognize brand-new keys is the only viable solution.
To program a new key, you’ll need to bring your car along with the desired keys to the main dealership. Some automotive locksmiths also have the required equipment, software, and licenses to perform this service.
The cost of replacing a car key varies between $50 and $600, depending on the type of key and where it is replaced. Basic keys are the least expensive, whereas replacing a keyless entry remote can be quite costly, particularly for luxury vehicles.
Wrapping Up
Ultimately, the decision is yours, but we strongly suggest reaching out to a professional to ensure the quality of your keys. While purchasing online might yield some success, it carries significant risks. The most frequent issue with buying replacement car keys online stems from the lack of accountability on the part of the seller. Anyone with internet access can sell discounted keys, making it challenging to find a trustworthy provider. When issues arise, most buyers are reluctant to pursue returns, replacements, or refunds. Therefore, if you wish to avoid these complications, hiring a professional locksmith is the best course of action. Sure Lock & Key is here to assist you if you’re seeking reliable locksmith services.
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