Replacement Keys For Cars
Losing car keys happens to the very best of us. They tend to disappear from pockets on coats or couch cushions and then be discovered at the worst possible moment.
Luckily, replacement keys for cars aren't as difficult to obtain as they were. Here are a few of your options for replacing them: auto locksmiths, dealerships and hardware stores.
Keys stolen or lost
Car keys can get stolen or lost in a variety of ways. Sometimes they break, other times they're lost or are put in a spot that they can easily located. Sometimes, they wear out to the point that they can no longer function. Whatever the reason it is recommended to keep an extra car key in order to save the hassle and expense of getting one replaced.
Contact your local locksmith right away if you have lost your keys. They'll usually be able to make a replacement key for less than it would cost you at a dealership. The locksmith can also program the features of your vehicle, such as hands-free boot opening, right on the moment of the call.
Before you call, be sure that you have the car's VIN number it is needed to find the exact model and year of the vehicle to make a new key. key replacement car is located on your dashboard, or in the title or registration paperwork of your vehicle.
Depending on the type of key you have it could be more costly to purchase a new one at the dealership. Dealerships will keep track your information to ensure that you receive an replacement key as fast as possible. They'll also be in a position to offer you a genuine factory replacement key that comes with the most recent security features built in.
On the other hand, if you have an ordinary turn-key key, it's more affordable to use an auto locksmith in your area. The locksmith can create an alternative key for less than the dealer and they can often visit you on the spot.
The only issue is if the keys are a transponder style that means they have a chip within them that is programmed to work with the particular vehicle. Locksmiths can usually create keys for you, but they cannot program them. You'll need to bring it to your dealer in order to have it programmed.
Fob Keys
If you have a fob that allows you to start and open your car, or if the fob is broken it is time to get a new one. Fob keys can be replaced by a dealership, a locksmith or, in some instances you can purchase one on the internet. The cost is based on the make and model of your car and whether or not it comes with transponders.
A simple fob, that emits a signal that opens the doors and begins the engine, is usually be repaired at a dealer or by locksmiths for less than $300. A more sophisticated key with a built-in transponder chip to verify that the driver is indeed the owner could be more expensive, particularly for late-model cars.
Keep an extra key or fob with you always in case you need to save money on replacements. If you're unable to carry a spare around with you and the dealer isn't willing to include two sets of keys as part of the purchase price or add a 3rd set to the order to avoid paying a higher fee later on. There are laser-cut aftermarket keys online at a lower price than those sold by dealers. Some sellers online can program your new key fob, however this may invalidate the warranty on the original and may be illegal in some states.
Try recharging or resetting the battery prior to deciding to replace your broken device. A dead battery may be the reason for a keyfob that won't work or isn't programmable. You can also adjust the buttons of the fob in case they're broken or stuck. If these steps do not work, you may have to visit a dealer, unless an automotive locksmith has the necessary equipment to program the most recent models. Dealers are generally the most expensive option, however they also have the best knowledge of car systems and technology. However, they may take a long time to repair your vehicle and aren't guaranteed to offer the best prices.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, or chip keys, are a type of key that has an embedded computer chip in it. The chip will send an encrypted signal to the car when the key is put into the lock cylinder. This code is then used by the car to start the engine and open the doors. These are much more secure and are a great way to stop theft.
A professional locksmith for automotive can cut a basic replacement transponder key (chip) for your car at a price that is lower than what the dealer will charge. It's important to note that if you're replacing an old key, you'll still need to have it programmed to match the ECM code of your car.
You can also have an ordinary transponder key copied from the original if you have it. It will not permit you to start your car however, as most automobiles are equipped with immobilizer systems that require the correct key to be used to function.
In the past, it was easy to hot-wire a car. This is the process of connecting two wires from the car's engine to a power supply in another location such as an apartment. The car will start when the starter is turned on. Transponder keys make it difficult for thieves to do this as the thief needs the correct key to transmit the coded signal from the chip inside the key to the ignition system.
If your vehicle has an immobilizer, it will not start if you're using an untransponderable key. It is therefore important to keep a spare transponder in your pocket or purse just in case. car key replacements 'll need to call your local locksmith to duplicate the key in case you lose it. Dealers will charge more for this service since they are the only ones who can create keys for certain vehicle brands.
Smart Keys
You may have an intelligent key if you drive a more recent model of car. These devices, also known as remotes, proximity keys, or fobs, permit drivers to open and start their cars without the need for the physical keys of their car. The technology has been around since the 1990s but was that was mostly found in automobiles of the time.
Smart keys communicate with vehicles via the radio wireless signal. The signals are encrypted and only your vehicle is able to read the signals. Depending on the type of key you use it could have a button that activates the ignition or locks of your car and some even have built-in GPS technology to track your vehicle's location if ever stolen.
The key could be a small fob or embedded in the handle. In either case, if you lose it you'll have to visit your dealership or auto locksmith for help in replacing it. Smart keys are different from traditional keys and can only be replaced by the dealer.
How much is contingent on the make and model of your vehicle and the type of key you own. A standard key with the lock-and-key mechanism is priced at $10 to $12. Transponder keys on the other, are likely to be more expensive. Generally, you'll need to bring your spare smart key along with evidence of ownership to the car dealer to get it replaced.
Some experts warn that smart keys could be hacked if someone is aware of what they're trying to find. For example the signals sent by smart keys are low-frequency when compared to other devices, making them easy for someone to pick up at the gas pump. This kind of hack may even be used from a distance according to How Stuff Works Electronics.
In all likelihood smart keys are becoming more common and much more convenient than the older versions. They help keep cars safe, give owners peace of mind, and assist them stay organized. It's a good idea invest in one of these however, make sure you have a backup key in your car, in case of emergency.