Replacement Keys For Cars
Losing car keys happens to the best of us. They tend to slip out of coat pockets or under sofa cushions only to be found at the most inconvenient time.
Luckily car key replacement to replace for cars aren't as hard to obtain as they were. Here are some of your options for replacing keys: auto locksmiths dealers and hardware stores.
Keys stolen or lost
Car keys can be lost or stolen in various ways. Sometimes they break, other times they are misplaced or are put in a spot where they can be easily found. Sometimes they simply wear out to the point that they can no longer function. Whatever the reason, it is always an excellent idea to have a spare car key order to avoid the expense and hassle of getting one replaced.
If you lose your key and you lose it, the best option is to contact your local automotive locksmith as soon as you can. They will usually be able to make you an alternative key at a lower cost than what it costs at the dealership. The locksmith will probably also be able to program your car's features like hands-free boot release, on the moment of the call.
Be sure to bring your VIN number before you call. This is needed to determine the year and model of the vehicle in order to make an entirely new key. It is located on your dashboard or on the registration or title paperwork of your vehicle.
car key replacement of replacing your key at a dealership could be higher depending on the type. Dealerships keep on top of this information so they will be capable of obtaining a new key quickly. You can also obtain an authentic factory-replacement key that has all of the latest security features.
If you have a standard key that's a turn-key it's more affordable to visit an auto locksmith in your area. The locksmith can provide you with an exchange for your key at a lower cost than a dealer and will often come to your location.
The only issue is if the keys are a transponder style, which means they have a chip in them that is programmed to work with the particular vehicle. Locksmiths can usually create keys for you however, they are not able to program them. You will 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 vehicle, or the fob is broken it is time to get a new one. Fob keys are available from the locksmith, dealerships or in certain instances, you can purchase one online. The cost depends on the model and make of your vehicle as well as whether or not it has transponders.
A simple fob, that emits a signal that opens the doors and then starts the engine, can usually be replaced by the dealer or by a locksmith for less than $300. A key that has an embedded transponder chip to prove that the owner of the key or a more advanced key, could be more costly. This is especially true for late model cars.
Keep an extra fob or key at all times to save money on replacements. If you aren't able to carry a spare along with you then ask the dealer to include two sets of keys as part of the purchase price or add a third set to the order to avoid paying a higher fee later on. There are laser-cut aftermarket keys on the internet for a cheaper cost than those sold by dealers. Some sellers online can program your new key fob, however this may void the warranty of the original and be illegal in certain states.
Before you decide to replace a damaged fob, try charging the battery or resetting it. A dead battery is often the reason for a key fob that won't turn on or can't be programmed. It's also possible the buttons on a fob can become stuck or damaged and adjusting them could fix the problem. If none of these solutions work, a dealership could be your only option, in the event that you cannot find a locksmith for your vehicle that has the tools to work with the latest models. Dealers are generally the most expensive option, but they also have the most extensive knowledge of the car's systems and technology. They can take a while to repair your car and they're not guaranteed to offer the lowest price.
Transponder Keys
Chip keys, also known as transponder keys are a modern key type that comes with an embedded computer chip on the. The chip transmits an encoded signal to the car when the key is put into the lock cylinder. This code is used by the car to turn on the engine and then open the doors. These are much harder to steal, and an excellent way to deter thieves.
A professional locksmith for automotive can cut the basic transponder chip (key) for your vehicle for less than dealers. It is important to remember that when replacing an old key, you'll need to have it programmed to match the ECM code of your vehicle.
You can also have an ordinary transponder key copied from the original if already have it. This will not allow you to start your car however, since the majority of automobiles are equipped with immobilizer systems that require the correct keys to be used for them to function.
In the past, it was easy to hot wire the car. This involves running two wires from the ignition of the car to a power source in another location, like an apartment building. The car will start when the starter is switched on. However, transponder keys make it harder for thieves to do this, since they require the correct key in order to transmit the coded signal from the chip in the key to the car's ignition system.
If your vehicle has an immobilizer, it won't start if you've got no transponder. This is why it's essential to always keep an extra transponder key in your purse or pocket, just in case. If you lose your spare key then you'll have to call your local automotive locksmith or dealer to duplicate the lost key in order to restart your car. Dealers will charge more for this service since they are the only ones to manufacture keys for certain car brands.
Smart Keys Keys
You may have an intelligent key in case you own a newer model of vehicle. These devices, which are also known as remotes, proximity keys or fobs, enable drivers to open and start their vehicles without having to use the physical keys of their car. The technology isn't new however, it was only available in high-end automobiles at the time.
Basically, smart keys communicate with vehicle via wireless signals via radio waves. The signals are encrypted, and only your car can read the signals. Some keys have a button to activate your car's ignition or lock. Some keys also come with GPS technology that determines the location of your vehicle if stolen.
The key can be a small key fob or embedded into the handle. In either case, if you lose your key, you'll likely need to go to your dealer or auto locksmith to assist to replace it. This is because smart keys aren't your typical key, and only the car dealer can replace them.
How much depends on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the kind of key you have. A basic key with a lock-and -key mechanism costs between $10 and $12. A transponder key, on other hand, is likely to be a bit more expensive. Generally, you'll need to bring your spare smart key and evidence of ownership to the dealer of your vehicle to have it replaced.
Some experts caution against the security of smart keys due to the fact that they are susceptible to hacking by someone who knows what to look for. Smart keys, for instance, transmit signals at a lower frequency than other devices. This makes them easier to obtain at an oil station. This kind of hack may even work from the distance according to How Stuff Works Electronics.
In all likelihood smart keys are becoming more widespread and much more convenient than traditional keys. They secure cars and provide peace of mind, and help owners to stay organized. It's a good idea purchase one however, make sure you have a backup key on hand in case of emergency.