So I’ve bought my own car key online, now what do I do to get it setup for my vehicle? What seems like it would be an easy task can sometimes be a huge headache. You have the key, but of course its not programmed to your car or the key isn’t cut. Where do I take it?
Will the dealer cut and program my remote or key? More often than not, larger companies like the the dealerships and hardware stores won’t usually take on this task. Main reason would be that the profit sometimes isn’t there due to you already having the key or remote and no ability to mark up the cost. To take it one step further, some companies don’t like to cut your provided key or remote in case they make a mistake during the process. If the item is cut wrong, sometimes it will ruin the chances of the key being used and they are left with no way to accomplish the task. Now they also ruined your chances of getting it done anywhere else too. This would be a difficult conversation that they don’t want to have. So, if you are in this same boat, your not alone.
Next step, contact a competent locksmith that deals with automotive keys and remotes. They will have the tools to get this job done right the first time. Some locksmiths like to take these on, while others don’t. Call a few for a good price comparison. I’ve seen good keys and remotes come from online sources, and I’ve seen some that are really bad. Even some that didn’t even have electrical circuit boards on the inside. For the locksmiths that don’t mind helping with these, your search is done. Take advantage of the expertise they can bring to the picture. Generally speaking, you may even you’ll find with current prices that dealers are charging, the locksmith pricing will be a cost savings. And most locksmiths will come to the location of the car so no tows are required.
