Replacement Keys For Cars
The loss of car keys is a common occurrence for the most seasoned of us. They tend to slip out of pockets in coats or under couch cushions, only to be found at the most inconvenient time.
Fortunately, replacement key s for cars aren't as difficult to obtain as they were. Here are some options to replace them: auto locksmiths, hardware stores and dealerships.
Keys that have been stolen or lost are
Car keys can get lost or stolen in a variety of ways. They may break, become lost, or be left in a location where they are easily found. Sometimes, they just wear out until they cease to function. It is always a good idea to keep an extra key to avoid the hassle of having to replace one.
If you lose your key and you lose it, the best thing to do is to contact your local automotive locksmith as quickly as you can. They'll usually be able to make you an alternative key at a lower cost than what it costs at the dealership. Locksmiths can also program features of your vehicle for hands-free boot opening, on the spot.
Be sure to have your VIN number before you call. This is required to determine the exact year and model of the car in order to make the new key. It is located on your dashboard or in the registration or title paperwork of your vehicle.
The cost of replacing your key at a dealership could be higher depending on the kind of key. Dealerships keep on top of this information and are capable of obtaining an updated key in a short time. They will also be capable of providing you with a genuine factory replacement key that comes with the most recent security features built in.
On the other the other hand, if you've got the standard turn-key type of key, it will be more affordable to use an auto locksmith in your area. The locksmith will offer you a key replacement for much less than the dealer and often visit your location.
The only issue is if your keys are a transponder style, which means they contain a chip inside the key that is programmed to work with a particular vehicle. Locksmiths are usually able to make keys for you, however they are unable to program them. You will need bring it in to your dealer to have it programmed.
Fob Keys
If you have a fob that allows you to start and open your vehicle, or the fob is broken, then you will need a new one. Fob keys can be purchased from the dealership, locksmiths or in certain cases, you can buy one online. The cost will depend on the make and model of your vehicle and whether or not it comes with transponders.
A simple fob, which emits a signal to open the doors and starts the engine, can usually be repaired at an auto dealer or locksmiths for less than $300. A key with an embedded transponder chip to prove that the driver is the owner, or a more advanced key, may be more expensive. This is especially applicable to late model cars.
Keep an extra fob or key at all times to save money on replacements. If you don't have enough money to carry around an extra set of keys, ask the dealer to add two sets of keys to the purchase price or to add a third the order. This will save you from having to pay higher costs later. You can also find laser-cut keys from the aftermarket at a lower price than those offered by the dealer. Some sellers online can program your new key for you, however this may void any warranty on the original key and could be illegal in certain states.
Before you decide to replace a damaged fob, you can try charging the battery or resetting it. A dead battery may be the reason behind a keyfob that won't work or isn't programmable. It's also possible the buttons on a fob could become stuck or damaged and adjusting them can solve the issue. If none of these solutions work, a dealer may be the only option in the event that you cannot find a locksmith for your vehicle that has the programming equipment to work with the latest models. Dealers are usually the most expensive, but also have the deepest knowledge of the latest technology and systems. However, they can take some time to fix your vehicle and aren't able to have the lowest prices.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as chip keys, are a type of key with a computer chip embedded in it. The chip transmits an encoded signal to the vehicle every time the key cylinder is put in. The car uses this code to start the engine or unlock the doors. They are also secure and are a good method to deter theft.
A professional locksmith for automotive will be able to cut the basic transponder chip (key) for your vehicle at a cheaper cost than an auto dealer. It is important to keep in mind that you'll require the key to be programmed to match the number in your vehicle's ECM in the event that you replace an existing key.
You could also use a basic transponder key cloned from the original one if you already have it. You won't be able to start your vehicle because many cars have immobilizer systems which require the correct key in order to function.
In the past, it was simple to hot-wire a car. This is the process of connecting two wires from the car's engine to a power source in another location, like an apartment. The car will start when the starter is switched on. Transponder keys make it harder for thieves to steal this as the thief needs the correct key in order to transmit the coded signal from the chip in the key to the ignition system.
This makes the key difficult to steal and, if your vehicle is equipped with an immobilizer it won't start with a non-transponder key. It is therefore important to keep a spare transponder in your pocket or purse just in case. You will need to contact your local locksmith shop to duplicate the key in case you lose it. A dealer will also charge a fee for this service as they typically have the exclusive right to create the key for certain brands of cars.
Smart Keys
There is a chance that you have smart keys in case you own an older model of car. These devices, also known as proximity keys, remotes, or fobs, allow users to open and start their vehicles without having to use an actual car key. The technology is not new, but it was only available in high-end luxury vehicles at the time.
Smart keys communicate with vehicles by sending the radio wave wireless signal. These signals are encrypted and only your vehicle is able to read the signals. Certain keys come with a button to activate the ignition of your vehicle or lock. Other keys may also have GPS technology that tracks your vehicle's location if stolen.
The key itself can either be a small keychain that you can carry in your pocket, or it can be embedded in the car's handle. Either way, if you lose it you'll need to go to your dealer or auto locksmith for help to replace it. This is because smart keys aren't like your regular keys and only a car dealer can replace them.
How much it will cost depends on the make and model of your car and the kind of key you have. A basic key with a lock-and -key mechanism costs between $10 and $12. Transponder keys on the other, are likely to be more expensive. In general, you'll have to bring your spare smart key and proof of ownership to your dealership to get it replaced.
Some experts warn that smart keys can be hacked if someone is aware of what they are seeking. For instance the signals transmitted by smart keys are relatively low-frequency compared to those of other devices, making them easy for someone to detect at a gas pump. According to How Stuff Works Electronics, this kind of hack is possible from some distance.
Smart keys are becoming increasingly popular and are more convenient. They protect cars and offer peace of mind and assist owners keep their keys organized. You should invest in one and keep a spare key on hand just in case.