How to Buy A Transponder Key Online
Want to buy or replace a transponder--or "coded"--key for your car? Buying one needn't be a hassle. You can purchase almost any key--coded or not--online. There are restrictions to getting a key online--you will still need a local locksmith who is willing to program the key for your particular car. Most locksmiths and dealerships in a large metropolitan area will not program a key that has been purchased online. So check with your dealership or an automotive locksmith you can find through a locksmith organization to see if he will program your key.
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Instructions
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Search online for the key for your make and model vehicle. Use a shopping search engine such as shopping.google.com or even eBay Motors. Usually you can find the key you need for much less than it is offered by the dealership.
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Check your owner's manual to see if you can program the key yourself. Some manufacturers, such as Ford and Toyota, give instructions on how to program the key. If you are unable to locate your owner's manual, ask your mechanic if he knows or consult a Chilton manual at your local library.
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Compare prices for local professionals who are equipped to program your particular key. Call the dealership and see how much it will charge for programming the first key and copies. Generally, dealers charge the same amount for each key. Note the price and, after locating a locksmith (use an organization such as Associated Locksmiths of America), ask how much he charges to program and cut a transponder key and how much he charges for each copy. A licensed automotive locksmith will usually charge about half for each copy.
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Tips & Warnings
Never do business with an automotive locksmith listed online or in the phone directory who is not licensed through the state or with a professional organization. Many con artists will list themselves as a locksmith in the phone directory and, upon arrival. double, triple or even quadruple their prices. You have the right to refuse service, but avoid this situation by using an organization that has already vetted its members for you.
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- Photo Credit key image by Yuri Tuchkov from Fotolia.com
