Replacement Keys For Cars
It happens to everyone. They tend to disappear from coat pockets or couch cushions and then be found at the worst possible time.
Keys for replacement for cars are more easily found than they used to be. You can purchase them at auto locksmiths, hardware shops and dealerships.
Lost or Stolen Keys
Car keys can get stolen or lost in many ways. They could break, be misplaced, or be left in an area that is easy to locate. Sometimes, they wear out to the point that they're no longer functioning. Whatever the reason it's always an excellent idea to have a spare car key in order to save the expense and hassle of getting one replaced.
If you lose your key, the best option is to contact your local automotive locksmith as quickly as you can. They'll usually be able to make you an alternative key at a lower cost than what it costs at an auto dealer. The locksmith can also program features of your vehicle, such as hands-free boot opening, right on the moment of the call.
Before you call, be sure to get your VIN number for your vehicle, which is necessary to determine the exact model and year of the vehicle in order to create new keys. You may be able to see this on your dashboard, or you may have to check the vehicle's title or registration papers.
Depending on the type of key you have It could be more expensive to replace at the dealership. Dealerships will keep track your details to ensure that you get an replacement key as fast as possible. They will also be capable of providing you with a genuine key from a factory that is with the latest security features that are built into.
If you have a standard lock that is a turn-key it is cheaper to go to a local auto locksmith. The locksmith will make you a key replacement for a lot less than the dealer and often visit your location.
The only exception is when you have transponder keys, that are programmed to work for the specific vehicle. Locksmiths are typically able to make keys for you, but they will not be able to program it, and you'll have to bring it to a dealership to get this done.
Fob Keys
If your vehicle uses 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 replaced by a dealership or a locksmith in some cases you can purchase one from the internet. The cost will depend on the make and model of your vehicle as well as whether or not it is equipped with transponders.
A simple fob, that emits a signal that opens the doors and starts the engine, is usually be replaced at the 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 costly, especially for vehicles of the latest model.
Keep key replacements car or key with you at all times to avoid money on replacements. If you don't have enough money to carry around a spare and need to ask the dealer to add two sets of keys to the purchase price, or to add a third to the order. This will help you save from paying more fees later. You can purchase laser-cut keys online for a much lower cost than those offered by dealers. Some sellers online will program your new key fob, however this may void the warranty of the original and may be illegal in certain states.
Before you decide to replace a damaged fob, try recharging the battery or resetting it. A dead battery may be the reason for an unresponsive keyfob or isn't programmed. You can also alter the buttons on the fob if they're stuck or broken. If none of these methods work, a dealership could be the only option, unless you find a locksmith for your vehicle that has the tools to work with the most recent models. Typically, dealers are the most expensive option, but they also have the greatest knowledge of the technology and systems used in cars. However, they may take some time to repair your vehicle and aren't guaranteed to offer the lowest price.
Transponder Keys
Chip keys, also known as transponder keys are a more contemporary key type that comes with an embedded computer chip in it. The chip transmits an encoded signal to the vehicle whenever the key cylinder is put in. This code is used by the car to start the engine and open the doors. These are much more than a challenge to steal and are a good way to stop theft.
A professional automotive locksmith can cut an ordinary transponder chip (key) for your vehicle at a cheaper cost than a dealer. However, it is important to keep in mind that you'll still require the key to be programmed to match the number in your vehicle's ECM when replacing an existing key.
You could also use the basic transponder key copied from the original one if you already have it. This will not allow you to start your car, however, since most cars have immobilizer systems which require a specific key to be used in order to function.
In the past it was easy to hot-wire a car. This involves connecting two wires from the car's ignition to a power source at another location, like an apartment building. The car will start when the starter is turned on. However, transponder keys make it harder for thieves to do this as the thief needs the correct key in order to transmit the coded signal from the chip inside the key to the ignition system.
This makes the key difficult to steal and if your car has an immobilizer that is not working, the car will not start when you use an untransponderable key. It is therefore essential to keep an extra transponder in your pocket or purse just in the event of. If you lose your spare key then you will have contact your local locksmith for automotive or the dealer to clone the key you lost to start your car again. Dealers will charge a higher fee for this service, since they are the only ones who can manufacture keys for certain car brands.
Smart Keys
You may have an intelligent key in case you own a more recent model of vehicle. They are often called proximity keys, fobs or remotes they permit drivers to unlock their cars and begin using them without the need for an actual key. The technology has been around since the 1990s however, it was a feature used in high-end automobiles of the time.
Basically smart keys communicate with vehicle by transmitting an electronic signal via radio waves. These signals are encrypted and only your vehicle is able to read them. Depending on your key it could have an option to activate the ignition or locks on your car, and some also have built-in GPS technology to 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 can be placed in the handle of your car. If you lose your key, you will need to contact your auto locksmith or dealer to get it replaced. This is because smart keys aren't like your regular keys, and only the dealership can replace them.
How much is contingent on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the type of key you own. A standard key that has a lock-and -key mechanism costs between $10 and $12. Transponder keys, on other hand, will be more expensive. In general, you'll need bring your spare smart key along with proof of ownership to the dealer of your vehicle to have it replaced.
Some experts caution against the use of smart keys, as they can be hacked by anyone who knows what to look for. Smart keys, for example transmit signals at a lower frequency than other devices. This makes them easy to get at the gas station. This kind of hack can even operate from an extended distance, according to How Stuff Works Electronics.
Smart keys are becoming increasingly popular and are more practical. They help keep cars safe and give owners peace of mind, and help them to stay organized. It's a good idea to invest in one of these but ensure that you keep a backup key on hand in case of emergency.