Replacement Keys For Cars
The loss of car keys is a common occurrence for the best of us. They tend to slip out of pockets on coats or underneath sofa cushions only to be discovered at the most inconvenient time.
Keys for replacement for cars are easier to find than they were in the past. You can purchase them at auto locksmiths, hardware shops, and dealerships.
Lost or Stolen Keys
Car keys can be lost or stolen in various ways. They can break, get misplaced, or be left in a location that is easy to locate. Sometimes, they wear out to the point that they can no longer function. It is always a good idea to keep an extra key in case you need to avoid the burden of replacing one.
If you've lost your key, the best option is to contact your local automotive locksmith as soon as you can. You will usually be able to get a replacement key at less than what you'd pay at a dealer. The locksmith might also be able to program your car's features, like hands-free boot release on the spot.
Before calling, make sure you have your car's VIN number that is required to determine the exact model and year of the vehicle in order to make a new key. You may be able to locate this on your dashboard or you may have to check the vehicle's title or registration documents.
Depending on the kind of key you have It could be more expensive to replace at the dealership. Dealerships keep the track of this information, and are capable of obtaining a new key quickly. They are also capable of providing you with a genuine key from a factory that is with the most recent security features built in.
On the other side, if you own the standard turn-key type of key, it is cheaper to go to a local auto locksmith. The locksmith can provide you with the replacement key at a lower cost than the dealer and can often visit your location.
The only exception is when you have transponder keys which are programmed to work for the specific vehicle. Locksmiths can usually make keys for you, but they cannot program them. You'll have to 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, you need a replacement for that in the event that it malfunctions or gets lost. Fob keys can be replaced by a dealership or a locksmith, or in certain cases you can order one from the internet. The cost of replacement varies greatly based on the make and model of your vehicle and if it comes with a transponder key or not.
A basic fob, which emits a signal that opens the doors and begins the engine, is usually be replaced at a dealer or by a locksmith for less than $300. A key with an embedded transponder chip to prove that the owner is the person who purchased it or a more advanced key, could be more expensive. This is particularly relevant for cars that are late in their production.
The best method to save money on replacement keys and fobs is to always carry a spare with you. If you're unable to carry a spare around 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 higher cost later. You can find laser-cut aftermarket keys online at a lower cost than those sold by dealers. Some sellers on the internet can program your new key fob, however this could void the warranty on the original and 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 is often the cause of keys that don't start or isn't programmed. You can also change the buttons on the fob in case they're stuck or broken. 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 on the latest models. Dealers are usually the most expensive, however they also have the most comprehensive knowledge of the latest technology and systems. However, they can take a long time to work on your vehicle and aren't able to offer the lowest price.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as chip keys, are a 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 will use this code to start the engine or unlock the doors. These are much more than a challenge to steal and are a great way to stop theft.
A professional locksmith for automotive will be able to cut an ordinary transponder chip (key) for your vehicle at a cheaper cost than a dealer. It's important to note that even if you replace an old key, you'll require it to be programmed to match the ECM code of your car.
You could also use a basic transponder key cloned from the original if you already have it. It will not permit you to start your car, however, as most automobiles are equipped with immobilizer systems that require the correct keys to be used for them to work.
In the past, it was very easy to hot wire a car. This involves connecting two wires from the car's ignition to a source of power in another location, such as an apartment building. The car starts when the starter is turned on. Transponder keys make it more difficult for thieves to do this as the thief needs the correct key in order to transmit the coded signal from the chip on the key to the car's ignition system.
This makes the key more difficult to steal and, if your vehicle is equipped with an immobilizer system that is not working, the car will not start if you use a non-transponder key. It is therefore important to keep a spare transponder in your purse or pocket just in the event of. You'll need to contact your local locksmith shop to duplicate the key in case you lose it. Dealers may also charge a fee for this service since they usually have exclusive rights to produce keys for specific models of cars.
Smart Keys Keys
If you own a more modern model car, chances are that your key has a smart element in it. Sometimes referred to as proximity keys, fobs or remotes These devices allow drivers to unlock their vehicles and start them without the need for the physical key. The technology is not new however it was only available in top-of-the-line luxury cars at the time.
Smart keys communicate with vehicles via an radio wireless wave. The signals are encrypted and only your vehicle is able to read the signals. Depending on your key that you have, it may come with an option to activate your car's locks or ignition as well as some with built-in GPS technology that can track the location of your vehicle if it's ever stolen.
The key itself could be a small, nifty fob that can be tucked away in your pocket, or it could be a part of the car's handle. If you lose your key, you'll need to call your dealer or auto locksmith in order to replace it. This is because smart keys aren't the regular keys, and only the dealership can replace them.
The price will depend on the model and make of car you have, as well as your key. A standard key with an lock-and-key mechanism will cost between $10 and $12. Transponder keys on the other, are likely to be more expensive. It is generally necessary to bring your spare smart key along with proof of ownership to your dealer in order to get it replaced.
Some experts warn that smart keys can be hacked if someone is aware of what they are trying to find. For example the signals transmitted by smart keys are relatively low-frequency when compared to other devices, making them simple to pick up 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 widespread and much more convenient than traditional keys. They can help protect cars and provide owners with peace of mind, and help them to stay organized. It is recommended to invest in one, but keep a spare key on hand just in case.