Replacement Keys For Cars
It is a common occurrence for all. They tend to disappear from coat pockets or under sofa cushions only to be found at the most inconvenient time.
Replacement keys for cars are easier to find than they were in the past. Here are a few of your options for replacing keys: auto locksmiths, hardware stores and dealerships.
Keys that have been stolen or lost are
Car keys can get stolen or lost in various ways. Sometimes they break, other times they're lost or left in a place that they can easily found. Sometimes, they wear out to the point that they are no longer functional. It is always a good idea to keep an extra key to avoid the hassle of having to replace one.
Contact your local locksmith right away if you have lost your keys. They will usually be able to create an alternative key for less than what it costs at an auto dealer. Locksmiths can also program features of your vehicle like hands-free boot opening, right on the on the spot.
Before you call, make sure you have your VIN number from your car that is required to find the exact year and model of the vehicle to create new keys. You may locate this on your dashboard or you may have to verify the title of the car or registration papers.
The cost of replacing your key at the dealership may be more expensive depending on the type. Dealerships keep track of this information so they will be able to get you an updated key in a short time. You can also purchase a genuine factory-replacement key with all the latest security features.
If you have a standard lock that's a turn-key it's more affordable to visit an auto locksmith in your area. Locksmiths can make an alternative key for cheaper than the dealer and they can often be there on site.
The only exception is when you have transponder keys, which are programmed to work for the specific vehicle. Locksmiths can typically create keys for you however, they are not able to program them. next need bring it in to your dealer in order to have it programmed.
Fob Keys
If your car uses a fob key to open and start the car you will require a replacement for that if it malfunctions or is lost. Fob keys are available at the locksmiths, dealers and in some instances, you can purchase one online. The cost will depend on the make and model of your car and whether or not it has a transponder.
A basic fob that sends signals to open the doors and start the engine could be replaced by a dealer or locksmith for less than 300 dollars. A more sophisticated key with an integrated transponder chip that can confirm that the driver is the owner could be more costly, especially for late-model cars.
The best method to save on replacement keys and fobs is to always keep an extra set on hand. If you don't have the funds to carry around an extra set of keys and need to 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 purchase laser-cut keys online at a lower cost than those sold by dealers. Some sellers online can program the new fob for you, however this could invalidate any warranty that was provided with the original key and could be illegal in certain states.
Before you decide to replace a damaged fob, you can try charging the battery or resetting it. A dead battery could be the reason behind the fob not working or isn't programmed. It's also possible that the buttons on the fob may get stuck or broken and adjusting them could fix the problem. If these methods don't work, you may have go to a dealer unless an automotive locksmith has the required equipment for programming the most recent models. Dealers are usually the most expensive, but also have the deepest knowledge of the latest technology and systems. However, they can take a long time to fix your vehicle and aren't guaranteed to have the lowest prices.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as chip keys, are a modern type of key that comes with embedded a computer chip within it. The chip transmits an encoded signal to the vehicle when the key cylinder is inserted. This code is then used by the car to turn on the engine and unlock the doors. These are much harder to steal, and an excellent way to deter thieves.
A professional locksmith can cut the basic transponder chip (key) for your vehicle at a cheaper cost than dealers. However, it is important to note that you will still need to get the key programmed to match the number in your vehicle's ECM in the event that you replace an existing key.
You can also have a basic transponder key cloned from the original if already have it. It will not be able to start your vehicle because many cars have immobilizer systems which require the correct key in order to function.
In the past, it was simple to hot wire an automobile. This is the process of running two wires from the engine of the vehicle to a power source in a different location, such as an apartment. The car will start when the starter is turned on. Transponder keys make it difficult for thieves to do this, since they require the correct key in order to transmit the coded signal from the chip inside the key to the car's ignition system.
This makes the key more difficult to steal and, if your vehicle has an immobilizer system that is not working, the car will not start if you use an untransponderable key. 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'll have to call your local locksmith for automotive or the dealer to clone the key that was lost in order to restart your car. Dealers will charge a higher fee for this service, as they are the only ones to make keys for specific car brands.
Smart Keys
You may have an intelligent key if you drive an older model of car. These devices, often referred to as remotes, proximity keys, or fobs, enable users to open and start their cars without having to use a physical car key. The technology has been around since the 1990s but was found mainly in high-end automobiles of the time.
Smart keys communicate with vehicles by sending the radio wave wireless signal. These signals are encrypted and only your car can read the signals. Depending on the type of key you use it could have an option to activate the ignition or locks of your car, and some also have built-in GPS technology that can track your vehicle location if it's ever stolen.
The key could be a small fob or placed inside the handle. If you lose your keys, you'll need to call your auto locksmith or dealer to request replacement. This is because smart keys aren't the typical key and only a dealer of your car can replace them.
The cost will depend on the make and model of your car and the kind of key you have. A standard key that has a lock-and -key mechanism costs between $10 and $12. Transponder keys, on the other, are likely to be more expensive. You'll usually need to bring the spare smart key and evidence of ownership to your dealer in order to replace it.
Some experts warn against the security of smart keys, as they could be hacked by anyone who knows what to look for. Smart keys, for example transmit signals at relatively low frequency compared to other devices. This makes them easy to get at an oil station. This kind of hack can even work from the distance, according to How Stuff Works Electronics.
Smart keys are becoming increasingly popular and are more convenient. They help keep cars safe, give owners peace of mind, and aid them stay organized. It's a good idea to purchase one but ensure that you have a spare key on hand, just in case.