I lost my car keys a few days ago and thought it could easily be replaced by just going to the dealership n having a new one made. Well, i called to get a quote and they said it would be about $175 to get a key made and that it needed to be a transponder key and for it to be programmed. However, my car cant even be started for me to get the car to the dealership to be programmed. I don't know if calling a locksmith would be cheaper or even more expensive. I guess I'll find out in a few minutes. Has anyone else had a similar experience with this? What did you end up doing?
That's what they run bro. My mother was quoted that from Nissan and wife the same from Chevy dealership. Both separate occasions just for a backup key. Sucks
Bought a car with push button turn on. Yes, dealership service depts. are a rip off, but it's where they make their money. To get a second key fob for my car they wanted $500.00. No thanks. BTW- A locksmith will be of no help if indeed you have a transponder key that has to be programmed.
Without a non-valet key, I think it's going to be expensive - more than just getting a key cut from the dealer which that is the going rate. Be thankful though because back in the late 90s this would have cost you dearly as they would have had to replace the computer module, ignition switch, door locks, trunk lock (if applicable) for a cost of around $2k. I believe now they can cut the key from the VIN and program it the hard way but you still have to get the car to them. I'd call and verify that 1st though. Many times the programming involves the use of a working non-valet key. Sorry but this is a lesson learned for those out there that don't have a backup key on the newer cars. Every used car I get usually only has 1 key and that is one of my 1st stops after getting tags.
Keep in mind... I don't have the original key anymore. You usually need the original key to program the new one..
Yeah, bought the car Used a few years ago... and only had one key. I was devastated when i couldn't find it.
You will have to go to the dealership either by taxi or bus or train, or with a friend who doesn't mind calling you dumb for losing the keys. They have a record of your key when they sold your car. Get that, then get another remade. Then you're going to have to have the previous one ERASED and a new one made because you don't know how to take care of your ONE car key. (You said you have no copies? That's sort of... well... worse.
All newer cars that have the electronic style keys have to be programmed with the ECU of the car. Basically pairing it to the car for it to start. Just a security measure if someone gets your key and makes a copy they can't start the car. As other posters have mentioned a locksmith does nothing for you but makes a key that will open your doors and trunk. It won't start the car.
Not to pour it on, but how do people lose their keys? I mean, guys have pockets, women have purses. Unless your pants are stolen or you lose your whole purse, how do you lose them? I never understand how people walk around with their keys out and just lay them down on tables or on like counters at stores while they're checking out.
Call a locksmith. I borrowed a friend's car a couple years ago and I lost the only key. I called a locksmith at around 7pm and they asked me the make and model and quoted me 225.00. The locksmith showed up about an hour later, took the steering wheel off and I'm not exactly sure what else he did, but the original key had a chip, the new key he gave me did not. He gave me a couple extras too and charged only 200.00. Took him about 20 minutes.
Myself and two of my buddies of the 4th Street Vatos Clan will drive over and show you how to hot wire your car for 25 bucks and a 12 pack of Tecate. A little bit extra if you aren't located on the East side.
Call PopALock! They'll come & do it for you onsite. You definitely don't need your original key for them to program it. They have all the stuff to cut and program your key in their vehicle.