Dealing with lost car keys is a very common thing that happens to millions of people. No need to worry because there are ways to help you avoid this problem again.

First things first, identifying the type of key you lost. Depending on the year, make, and model, there are three types of keys your car might have, and knowing which kind it is will be very essential to help you know what you are looking for and help you get better pricing. Therefore, here are some ways to help you identify your type of car key.

Identifying Your Specific Car Key

Traditional Car Keys:

Also known as “metal keys”, or “basic keys” that were being used up until the early 2000’s. Traditional keys have no encoding, which makes them very easy to make a copy of or get them cut in various locations.

 

Transponder Key:

Also know as the “key with a chip” or “programmed keys”. Your vehicle may have this key if they are 2000 and up. These special keys have a microchip in the key handle that turns on your car when placed in the ignition.

 

Fob key:

Also known as a “smart key” found in vehicles that are push to start or for cars that don’t need a key to start the vehicle. Fob keys will turn on the car within range with the push of a button.

 

What do I do after I identify the type of Key I have:
The next step will be to decide if a dealer or a locksmith would be a better fit for yourself. Dealers typically charge between 250-600$ depending on the type of key you have and charge extra to add a remote and sometimes even to program the key. However, choosing a locksmith would probably be a better option if you’re looking to save some money. Locksmiths usually charge between 150-400$ and already include programming and remote service.

Why choosing a locksmith might be a better option for you?

Let’s face it, no one wants to spend a ton of money on a car key. When people think of locksmiths, they are shocked to find out they can make you a variety of keys for different cars and charge half the price than a dealer would. Locksmiths are convenient and can save you a lot of time. They can usually make you a brand-new key that same day. Not only do locksmiths travel to your location, but they are also available 24 hours a day.

Should I consider obtaining a spare key?

Absolutely. There are a few reasons on why you may want a spare key. It’s recommended that you obtain one if you seem to be finding yourself stuck in this situation often. After a while, keys get old and may break or get lost, so it would be helpful if you already have a spare laying around. You can ask a locksmith to make you the spare for a few more dollars depending if you want it to unlock the door or start the ignition.

Lost car keys? Make sure it doesn’t happen again by getting spare keys from AA1 Locksmith San Pedro. We can make you the spare for less than a dealer depending on if you want it to unlock the door or start the ignition again. Get a free quote over the phone now by calling (562) 475-4790.

Rekeying Locks keeps you Safe

Rekeying is the first line of security on any of your entry doors. If you can’t maintain and ensure the integrity of your locks, you can’t hope to restrict unauthorized or unwanted entry. Most certified Locksmiths encourage people to have their locks rekeyed after moving to a new house/office, or if anything unexpected occurs, such as losing your keys. In this article, we are going to show you how important it is to rekey your locks as soon as possible.

Rekeying Enhances your House’s Security and Safety

Security is the most important reason for rekeying your locks. Even when you buy a new home or business, you have no idea who previously had copies of those keys. The previous occupant might have kept some spare keys or there might still be other keys in circulation. For instance, some keys might be with an ex-girlfriend, caregivers, cleaning companies, neighbors, and/or landscaping crews, among others. Rekeying your locks will give you total control over who has access to your home or office. Moreover, you’ll know for sure that you are the only one with the key(s) to the freshly configured locks. Rekeying also allows you to fully control who gets the new keys and who doesn’t.

It’s an Affordable Service

When it comes to cost, rekeying is very inexpensive, especially when compared to a full lock replacement. When dealing with multiple locks, it is much easier to rekey than to change the whole entire lock. This is particularly true for the high-end handles and lock options. Designer locks and handles can be very expensive. Therefore, rekeying them instead of replacing them can save you lots of money.

The Best Choice at Your Convenience

Rekeying is a more convenient option so you don’t have to carry multiple keys in order to open multiple locks. Your locks can be professionally rekeyed so that you can conveniently use one key to open all of your locks, thus adding lots of convenience to your life activities. Overall, rekeying is the most effective means of ensuring the security of your home or office. It’s also cost-effective, straightforward, and doesn’t take as much time as a lock replacement. The best way get your locks rekeyed is by procuring the services of a Certified Locksmith. Certified locksmiths can be a little bit expensive, but it will guarantee that you receive top-notch results, especially when you are dealing with complex locks.

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