Replacement Keys For Cars
Losing car keys happens to the most seasoned of us. They tend to disappear from coat pockets or couch cushions and then be found at the worst possible time.
Replacement keys for cars are much easier to locate than they were in the past. Here are some of your options for replacing keys: auto locksmiths, dealerships and hardware stores.
Keys stolen or lost
There are a myriad of ways car keys can be stolen or lost. Sometimes they break, but other times they're lost or get placed in a location that they can easily located. Sometimes they even just wear out to the point where they no longer function properly. It is always a good idea to keep an extra key to save the burden of replacing one.
If you have lost your key, the best thing to do is to contact your local automotive locksmith as soon as you can. It is possible to find a replacement key at an affordable price than you would pay a dealer. The locksmith will probably also be in a position to program your car's features like hands-free boot release on the moment of the call.
Be sure to have your VIN number ready when you call. This is required to determine the year and model of the car in order to make the new key. It is located on your dashboard or on the registration or title paperwork of your vehicle.
Depending on the type of key you own it could be more costly to replace at the dealership. Dealerships keep on top of this information and will be in a position to provide you with a new key quickly. They will also be capable of providing you with an authentic factory replacement key that comes with the latest security features built in.
On the other the other hand, if you've got the standard turn-key type of key, it will be cheaper to visit a local auto locksmith. The locksmith can provide you with an exchange for your key for a lot less than the dealer and can often visit your location.
The only issue is if your keys are a transponder style that means they contain a chip inside them that has been programmed to work with the specific vehicle. Locksmiths can usually create keys for you, however they are unable to program them. You will need bring it in to your dealer in order to have it programmed.
Fob Keys
If your car is equipped with fob keys to open and start the car you will require an alternative when it fails or is lost. Fob keys can be replaced by a dealership or a locksmith in certain cases you can purchase one from the internet. The cost is based on the model and brand of your car and whether or not it comes with transponders.
A simple fob that emits signals to open the doors and start the engine could be replaced by a locksmith or dealer for less than 300 dollars. A more sophisticated key that also has a built-in transponder chip to confirm that the driver is the owner may be more expensive, especially for cars that are late-model.
The most efficient way to save on replacement keys and fobs is to always keep an extra set with you. If you're unable to carry a spare with you, ask the dealer to include two sets of keys as part of the purchase price or add a third set to to avoid paying a larger fee later on. You can purchase laser-cut keys on the internet for a cheaper cost than those offered by dealers. Some sellers on the internet will program the new key fob, however this may void the warranty of the original and may be illegal in some states.
Try recharge or reset the battery before you decide to replace your broken fob. A dead battery is often the cause of the fob's keypad that doesn't turn on or cannot be programmed. You can also change the buttons on the fob if they're stuck or broken. If replacement auto key fob of these solutions work, a dealer may be the only option, unless you find a locksmith for your vehicle that has the equipment to work with the most recent models. Dealers are generally the most expensive option, but they also have the most extensive knowledge of the car's systems and technology. They may take a long time to work on your vehicle and they're not guaranteed to offer the lowest price.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as chip keys, are a new type of key that comes with a computer chip embedded in it. The chip will send an encoded signal to the car whenever the key is inserted into the lock cylinder. This code is then used by the car to turn on the engine and unlock the doors. They are also secure and can be a great method to deter theft.
A professional locksmith for automotive will be able to cut an ordinary transponder chip (key) for your vehicle at a lower cost than an auto dealer. It is important to remember that even if you replace an old key, you'll require it to be programmed to match the ECM code of your vehicle.
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 have immobilizer systems that require the correct keys to be used in order for them to function.
In the past it was easy to wire a hot car. It involves running two wires from the engine of the car to a power supply in another location, like an apartment. The car will start when the starter is turned on. Transponder keys make it more difficult for thieves, since they require the correct keys to transmit the coded signals from the chip on key to the ignition system of the vehicle.
If your car has an immobilizer, it won't start if you're using a non-transponder. It is therefore important to keep an extra transponder in your purse or pocket just in case. If you have lost your spare key, then you will have contact your local automotive locksmith or the dealer to clone the lost key in order to restart your car. Dealers will charge you more for this service, since they are the only ones who can create keys for certain vehicle brands.
Smart Keys
You may have smart keys when you drive a newer model of vehicle. These devices, which are often referred to as remotes, proximity keys, or fobs, allow drivers to open and start their cars without using a physical car key. The technology has been around since the 1990s but was found mainly in high-end automobiles of the time.
Basically smart keys communicate with your vehicle by transmitting an electronic signal via radio waves. These signals are encrypted and only your car can read them. Some keys include an option to turn on your car's ignition or lock. Other keys may also have GPS technology that tracks your vehicle's location if stolen.
The key can be a small key fob or placed inside the handle. If you lose your key you'll need to contact your auto locksmith or dealer to get it replaced. Smart keys differ from traditional keys and can only be replaced by the dealer.
The cost will depend on the model and make of vehicle you own, as well as your key. A standard key with the lock-and-key mechanism is priced at $10 to $12. Transponder keys, on other, are likely to be more expensive. It is generally necessary to bring the spare smart key along with proof of ownership to your dealer to get it replaced.
Some experts warn that smart keys can be hacked if someone is aware of what they're trying to find. Smart keys, for example, transmit signals at a lower frequency than other devices. This makes them easier to pick up from the gas station. According to How Stuff Works Electronics, this type of hacking is possible from some distance.
In any case smart keys are becoming more widespread and much more convenient than older options. They help keep cars safe, give owners peace of mind, and aid them stay organized. It's a good idea to purchase one however, make sure you have a backup key on hand, just in case.