Replacement Keys For Cars
Car keys are lost to the most seasoned of us. They can disappear from pockets on coats or on couch cushions, only to be discovered at the worst possible moment.
Car keys replacements are much easier to locate than they used to be. You can replace them at auto locksmiths, hardware shops and dealerships.
Keys that have been stolen or lost are
Car keys can get lost or stolen in many ways. Sometimes they break, but other instances, they are lost or get put in a spot that they can easily located. Sometimes they even just get worn down until they are no longer functioning properly. Whatever the reason, it is always an excellent idea to have a spare car key in order to avoid the hassle and expense of getting one replaced.
Contact your local locksmith right away if your keys. You will usually be able to get a replacement key at less than what you would buy from an auto dealer. The locksmith might also be in a position to program your car's features, like hands-free boot release, right on the spot.
Make sure you have your VIN number when you call. This is required to determine the exact year and model of the vehicle in order to create an entirely new key. It is located on your dashboard, or in the registration or title papers of your vehicle.
Depending on the type of key you have It could be more costly to buy a new one from a dealer. Dealerships keep the track of this information, and will be able to get you a new key quickly. You can also obtain an authentic factory-replacement key that has all the latest security features.
If you have a standard lock that is a turn-key it is cheaper to go to a local auto locksmith. The locksmith can provide you with an exchange for your key at a lower cost than the dealer and often come to your location.
The only issue is if your keys are transponder style, which means they have a chip in them that is programmed to work with a specific vehicle. A locksmith will usually be in a position to create keys for you, but not program it, so you'll have to take it to the dealership to get this done.
Fob Keys
If your car uses a fob key to open and start the car you will require an alternative in the event that it malfunctions or gets lost. Fob keys can be replaced by a dealership or a locksmith, or in some cases you can purchase one from the internet. The cost of replacement varies greatly based on the make and model of your car and whether it comes with a transponder key or not.
A simple fob that emits an indication to open the doors and start the engine could be replaced by a dealer or locksmith for less than $300. A more sophisticated key with a built-in transponder chip to verify the driver is the owner may be more costly, especially for late-model cars.
Keep a spare fob or key always in case you need to save money on replacements. If you don't have enough money to carry around an extra set of keys request the dealer to add two sets of keys to the purchase price, or to add a third to the order. This will prevent you from paying more fees later. You can find laser-cut aftermarket keys on the internet for a cheaper cost than those sold by dealers. Some sellers online will program your new key fob, however this may void the warranty of the original key and could be illegal in some states.
Before you decide to replace a damaged fob, try recharging the battery or resetting it. A dead battery is usually the cause of a key fob that won't turn on or cannot be programmed. It's also possible that the buttons on a fob can be damaged or stuck and adjusting them could solve the issue. If none of these methods work, a dealership could be your only option, unless you can find an automotive locksmith that has the tools to work with the most recent models. Dealers are typically the most expensive, but also have the most in-depth understanding of car technology and systems. They may take some time to fix your vehicle and aren't sure of offering the best price.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as chip keys, are a new type of key that comes with an embedded computer chip in it. The chip sends an encoded signal to the car whenever the key is put into the lock cylinder. The car utilizes this code to start the engine or unlock the doors. These are much more than a challenge to steal and can be a great way to stop theft.
A professional automotive locksmith can cut an ordinary replacement transponder key (chip) for your car for a much lower cost than the dealer can charge. It is important to remember that if you're replacing an old key, you'll still require it to be programmed to match the ECM code of your car.
You could also use the basic transponder key copied from the original if you already have it. It will not be in a position to start your car since many vehicles have immobilizer systems which require the correct key to function.
In the past, it was very simple to hot wire an automobile. This process involves connecting two wires from the ignition of the car to a source of power in another location, for instance an apartment building. The car starts when the starter is switched on. Transponder keys make it harder for thieves to steal this since the criminal requires the correct key in order to transmit the coded signal from the chip on the key to the ignition system.
If your car is equipped with an immobilizer, it will not start if you have no transponder. This is why it's important to keep an extra transponder keys in your purse or pocket, just in case. You'll need to contact your local locksmith to duplicate the key in case you lose it. A dealer will also charge a premium for this service since they often have the exclusive rights to make keys for specific models of cars.
Smart Keys
If you have a newer model car, chances are that your car key has an electronic component that is smart. These devices, often referred to as remotes, proximity keys or fobs, enable users to open and start their vehicles without the need for a physical car key. The technology isn't new however it was only available in top-of-the-line automobiles at the time.
automotive car key replacement communicate with vehicles by sending the radio wireless wave. These signals are encrypted and only your car is able to read the signals. Depending on your key that you have, it may come with the button that turns on the ignition or locks of your car, and some also have built-in GPS technology to track your vehicle location if it's ever stolen.
The key could be a small fob, or embedded in the handle. If you lose your key you'll need to contact your auto locksmith or dealer to request replacement. This is because smart keys aren't the standard traditional key and only a dealership can replace them.
The cost will depend on the make and model of your car and the type of key you have. A basic key with an lock-and-key mechanism will cost $10 to $12. A transponder key on the other hand, is likely to be a bit more expensive. Generally, you'll need to bring your spare smart key along with proof of ownership to your dealer of your vehicle to have it replaced.
Some experts warn against the convenience of smart keys, as they can be hacked by anyone who knows what to look for. For instance the signals sent by smart keys are low-frequency when compared to other devices, making them simple to detect at a gas pump. According to How Stuff Works Electronics, this kind of hack is even possible from a distance.
In any case smart keys are becoming more popular and are a lot more practical than the older versions. They protect cars and provide owners with peace of mind, and assist to keep them organized. It is recommended to invest in one and keep a spare key on hand just in case.