Replacement Keys For Cars
Car keys are lost to the most seasoned of us. They can disappear from coat pockets or sofa cushions only to be found at the worst possible time.
Keys for replacement for cars are easier to find than they used to be. You can replace them at auto locksmiths, hardware stores and dealerships.
Lost or Stolen Keys
There are a variety of ways car keys could be stolen or lost. Sometimes they break, and other times they are misplaced or get placed in a location that they can easily found. Sometimes they simply wear out to the point where they are no longer functional. It's always a good idea to have a spare key to save the stress of replacing one.
If you have lost your key the best option is to contact your local automotive locksmith as quickly as you can. They'll usually be able to create an alternative key for less than what it will cost at the dealership. The locksmith may also be in a position to program your car's features like hands-free boot release, right on the moment of the call.
Make sure you have your VIN number before you call. This is required to determine the exact year and model of the car for the purpose of creating the new key. You can find it on your dashboard, or in the registration or title papers of your vehicle.
car key replacement near me of replacing your key at the dealership may be more expensive depending on the kind of key. Dealerships will track your details to ensure that you receive the replacement key as soon as they can. They'll also be in a position to offer you an authentic key from the factory that is fitted with the latest security features that are built into.
On the other hand, if you have a standard turn-key type of key, it is cheaper to visit a local auto locksmith. The locksmith will offer you a key replacement for a lot less than the dealer and often visit your location.
The only problem with this is if your keys are transponder-style that is, they have a chip within the key that is programmed to work with the specific vehicle. Locksmiths can usually make keys for you, but they cannot program them. You'll have bring it to your dealer to get it programmed.
Fob Keys
If your car is equipped with a fob key to open and start the vehicle and start it, you'll need replacement if it malfunctions or is lost. Fob keys can be purchased from the locksmith, dealerships and in some cases you can order one online. The cost is based on the model and brand of your vehicle as well as whether or not it has transponders.
A basic fob, which emits a signal to open the doors and starts the engine, is usually be repaired at an auto dealer or locksmiths for less than $300. A key with an embedded transponder chip to prove that the owner of the key or a more sophisticated key, could be more costly. This is especially applicable to late model cars.
The most efficient way to save on fobs and keys that need replacement is to always keep a spare with you. If you can't afford to carry a spare around with you, ask the dealer to include two sets of keys in the purchase price or add a third set to the order to avoid paying a higher fee later on. You can purchase laser-cut keys on the internet for a cheaper price than those sold by dealers. Some online sellers can program your new fob for you, but that could void any warranty on the original key and could be illegal in some 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 for the fob not working or cannot be programmed. It's also possible the buttons on a fob can become stuck or damaged and adjusting them could solve the issue. If none of these methods work, a dealership may be the 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 comprehensive understanding of car technology and systems. However, they can take a long time to work on your vehicle and aren't guaranteed to offer the best prices.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as chip keys, are a modern type of key that comes with embedded a computer chip within it. The chip will send an encoded signal to the vehicle when the key cylinder is inserted. The car uses this code to start the engine or open the doors. These are much harder to steal and are is a great way to deter thieves.
A professional locksmith for automotive will be able to cut an ordinary transponder chip (key) for your vehicle for less than an auto dealer. It is important to remember that you'll still require the key to be programmed to match the code in your vehicle's ECM when replacing an existing one.
If you already have an original transponder, you can request a duplicate made. This will not allow you to start your car, however, since most cars are equipped with immobilizer systems that require the correct key to be used in order for them to function.
In the past it was easy to hot-wire a car. This is the process of connecting two wires from the engine of the car to a power supply in a different location, such as an apartment. The car starts when the starter is switched on. Transponder keys make it difficult for thieves to steal this, since they require the correct key in order to transmit the coded signal from the chip inside the key to the ignition system.
This makes the key more difficult to steal, and if your vehicle is equipped with an immobilizer it won't start if you use an untransponderable key. It is therefore important to keep an extra transponder in your pocket or purse just in case. If you lose your spare key then you'll have contact your local locksmith for automotive or dealer to duplicate the lost key in order to start your car again. Dealers will charge more for this service, as they have exclusive rights to manufacture keys for certain car brands.
Smart Keys
If you have a newer model car, chances are that your car key has a smart element in it. These devices, which are also known as remotes, proximity keys, or fobs, enable drivers to open and start their vehicles without using the physical keys of their car. The technology has been around since the 1990s but was that was mostly found in luxury vehicles at that time.
Basically, smart keys communicate with the vehicle by transmitting wireless signals via radio waves. The signals are encrypted and only your vehicle is able to read them. Depending on your key that you have, it may come with a button that activates the ignition or locks on your car and some even have built-in GPS technology to track the location of your vehicle if it's ever stolen.
The key can be a small fob or embedded into the handle. In either case, if you lose it, you'll likely need to go to your dealer or auto locksmith for help in replacing it. This is because smart keys aren't your typical key, and only the dealership can replace them.
The cost will vary based on the type and make of vehicle you own, as well as your key. For instance, a basic key that has a lock-and-key mechanism is usually priced between $10 to $12 to replace. A transponder key, on the contrary, could be a bit more costly. Generally, you'll need to bring your spare smart key and proof of ownership to your dealership to get it replaced.
Some experts warn against the use of smart keys, as they are susceptible to hacking by a person who knows what to look for. For example the signals sent by smart keys are relatively low-frequency when compared to other devices, which makes them simple to pick up at a gas pump. This kind of hack may even be used from the distance according to How Stuff Works Electronics.
Smart keys are becoming increasingly popular and practical. They protect cars and give owners peace of mind, and help them to stay organized. It is recommended to invest in one and keep a spare key in your car just in case.