Replacement Keys For Cars
It is a common occurrence for everyone. They tend to slip out of pockets in coats or under couch cushions, only to be discovered at the most inconvenient moment.
Fortunately keys for replacement for cars aren't as hard to obtain as they were. Here are a few of your options for replacing keys: auto locksmiths dealers and hardware stores.
Keys that have been stolen or lost are
There are many ways that car keys can be lost or stolen. They can break, get misplaced, or be left in a location where they can be easily found. Sometimes, they wear down until they are no longer functioning properly. It is always a good idea to keep an extra key in case you need to keep from the hassle of having to replace one.
Contact your local automotive locksmith right away if you have lost your keys. They will usually be able to make new keys at a lower cost than what it will cost at the dealership. Locksmiths can also program the features of your car for hands-free boot opening on the moment of the call.
Before you call, make sure to get your VIN number from your car it is needed to find the exact model and year of the vehicle to create a new key. You can find it on your dashboard or in the registration or title paperwork of your vehicle.
Depending on the type of key you own, it might be more costly to purchase a new one at the dealership. Dealerships will keep track your details to ensure you receive the replacement key as soon as they can. They are also in a position to offer you a genuine factory replacement key that comes with all the latest security features built in.
If you have a standard lock that is a turn-key it's more affordable to visit a local auto locksmith. The locksmith will offer you a key replacement for much less than the dealer and often come to your location.
The only issue is if your keys are transponder style that means they contain a chip inside the key that is programmed to work with a specific vehicle. A locksmith will usually be capable of making keys for you, but not programme it, so you'll have to take it to the dealership to get this done.
Fob Keys
If your vehicle uses fob keys to open and start the vehicle, you need a replacement for that when it fails or is lost. Fob keys can be replaced by a dealership or a locksmith, or in some cases you can order one online. The cost will depend on the model and make of your vehicle and whether or not it has transponders.
A basic fob that sends an indication to open the doors and start the engine can be replaced by a dealer or locksmith for less than 300 dollars. A more advanced key that also has a built-in transponder chip to verify that the driver is indeed the owner could be more expensive, especially for cars that are late-model.
The best method to save money on fobs and keys that need replacement is to always carry an extra set with you. If you don't have enough money to carry around an extra set of keys, ask the dealer to add two sets of keys to the purchase price or to add a third set to the purchase. This will prevent you from paying higher fees later. You can also purchase laser-cut keys from the aftermarket for a much lower cost than those offered by the dealer. Some sellers online can program the new fob for you, but that could void any warranty on the original key and may be illegal in certain states.
Before you decide to replace a broken fob, try charging the battery or resetting it. A dead battery is usually the cause of a key fob that won't turn on or can't be programmed. It's also possible that the buttons on the fob may get stuck or broken and adjusting them can solve the issue. If these methods don't work, you might need to visit a dealer unless an automotive locksmith has the required equipment for programming the most recent models. Dealers are typically the most expensive, however they also have the most in-depth knowledge of the latest technology and systems. They may take a long time to fix your vehicle and they are not sure of offering the best cost.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as chip keys are a modern type of key that has a computer chip embedded in 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 unlock the doors. They are much more difficult to steal, and a great way to discourage thieves.
A professional automotive locksmith will be able to cut a basic transponder chip (key) for your vehicle at a lower cost than dealers. It's important to note that even if you replace an old key, you'll still need to have it programmed to match the ECM code of your car.
You could also use a basic transponder key cloned from the original if already have it. This will not permit you to start your car however, since the majority of cars are equipped with immobilizer systems which require a specific key to be used for them to function.
In the past it was simple to hot-wire a car. This involves running two wires from the engine of the vehicle to a power source in another location such as an apartment. The car will start when the starter is turned on. Transponder keys make it harder for thieves, as they require the correct keys to transmit the encoded signals from the chip on key to the ignition system of the vehicle.
If your car is equipped with an immobilizer, it will not start if you've got no transponder. It is therefore essential to keep an extra transponder in your purse or pocket just in the event of. If you lose your spare key, then you will have to call your local locksmith for automotive or dealer to copy the lost key in order to restart your car. Dealers will charge you more for this service since they have exclusive rights to create keys for certain vehicle brands.
Smart Keys
There is a chance that you have an intelligent key when you drive an older model of vehicle. Often called fobs, proximity keys or remotes, these devices allow drivers to unlock their cars and start them without using a physical key. More Help has been around since the 1990s but was found mainly in high-end automobiles of the time.
Smart keys communicate with vehicles by sending an radio wave wireless signal. The signals are encrypted, and only your car is able to read the signals. Based on the key you have that you have, it may come with a button that activates the ignition or locks of your car as well as some with built-in GPS technology that tracks the location of your vehicle if it's ever stolen.
The key itself could be a small keychain that you can carry inside your pocket, or it can be placed in the handle of your car. Either way, if you lose it you'll have to visit your dealership or auto locksmith for assistance to replace it. This is because smart keys aren't the typical key, and only the car dealer can replace them.
The cost will depend on the make and type of car you have as well as the model of your key. For instance, a basic key that uses a lock-and-key mechanism is typically priced between $10-$12 to replace. A transponder key, on the other hand, is likely to be a bit more costly. You'll usually need to bring your spare smart key along with proof of ownership to your dealer to replace it.
Some experts warn against the security of smart keys because they could be hacked by a person who knows what to look for. For example the signals transmitted by smart keys are low-frequency in comparison to other devices, making them simple to spot at a gas station. According to How Stuff Works Electronics, this type of hacking is possible from some distance.
In any case the use of smart keys is becoming more popular and are a lot more practical than older options. They secure cars, provide peace of mind and help owners to stay organized. It's a good idea invest in one of these however, make sure you keep a backup key on hand, just in case.