Replacement Keys For Cars
Car keys are lost to the very best of us. They can disappear from pockets on coats or on couch cushions, only to be found at the most inconvenient time.
Car keys replacements 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 stolen or lost
There are many ways that keys to cars can be stolen or lost. They could break, be lost, or be left in an area where they are easily found. Sometimes they even just get worn down to the point that they are no longer functioning properly. Whatever the reason it is recommended to keep an extra car key in order to avoid the hassle and expense of getting one replaced.
If you lose your key, the best thing to do is to contact your local automotive locksmith as quickly as you can. It is possible to get a replacement key at an affordable price than you'd pay the dealer. Locksmiths can also program features of your vehicle, such as hands-free boot opening, right on the on the spot.
Be sure to bring your VIN number ready when you call. This is required to determine the year and model of the vehicle in order to make a new key. It is located on your dashboard or in the registration or title paperwork of your vehicle.
The cost of replacing your key at the dealership could be more expensive depending on the kind of key. Dealerships will keep track of your details to ensure that you get a replacement key as quickly as possible. You can also get a genuine factory-replacement key with all of 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. The locksmith will make you the replacement key for much less than the dealer and can frequently come to your place.
The only exception is when you have transponder keys that are programmed to work for a specific vehicle. A locksmith will usually be capable of making the key for you, but not program it, so you'll need to bring it to a dealership to have this done.
Fob Keys
If your car is equipped with a fob key to open and start the vehicle, you need replacement when it fails or is lost. Fob keys can be replaced by a dealership, a locksmith or, in certain cases you can purchase one from the internet. The cost is based on the model and brand of your vehicle as well as whether or not it has transponders.
A basic fob that sends a signal to open the doors and start the engine can be replaced by a dealer or locksmith for less than $300. A key with a transponder chip that proves the driver is the owner, or a more advanced key, could be more expensive. automotive car key replacement is particularly true for late model cars.
Keep an extra fob or key with you at all times to save money on replacements. If you can't afford to carry a spare along with you and the dealer isn't willing to include two sets of keys as part of the purchase price, or add a third set to the order to avoid paying a larger cost later. There are also laser-cut keys from the aftermarket for a much lower cost than the ones sold by the dealer. Some sellers online can program the new fob for you, however this could void any warranty on the original key and may be illegal in some states.
Before you decide to replace a broken fob, you can try charging the battery or resetting it. A dead battery is usually the cause of the fob's keypad that doesn't turn on or can't be programmed. You can also change the buttons of the fob in case they're broken or stuck. If none of these methods work, a dealership may be the only option unless you can locate an automotive locksmith who has the tools to work on the latest models. Dealers are typically the most expensive, however they also have the deepest knowledge of the latest technology and systems. They can take a while to work on your vehicle and aren't guaranteed to offer the lowest cost.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, or chip keys, are a new type of key that comes with an embedded computer chip in it. The chip transmits an encoded signal to the vehicle when the key cylinder is inserted. This code is used by the car to start the engine and open the doors. They are also secure and can be a great way to discourage theft.
A professional locksmith can cut a basic replacement transponder key (chip) for your car at a price that is lower than what a dealer would charge. It is crucial to keep in mind that when replacing an old key, you'll still need to have it programmed to match the ECM code of your vehicle.
You could also use an ordinary transponder key copied from the original one if you already have it. You won't 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 very simple to hot wire a car. It involves connecting two wires from the car's engine 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 this harder for thieves, since they need the correct key to transmit the coded signals from the chip in the key to the ignition system of the vehicle.
If your vehicle is equipped with an immobilizer, it will not start if you have a non-transponder. Therefore, it is important to keep an extra transponder in your pocket or purse just in case. If you have lost your spare key, then you will have contact your local locksmith or the dealer to clone the lost key in order to restart your car. Dealers will charge more for this service, as they are the only ones who can make keys for specific car brands.
Smart Keys
You may have a smart key in case you own an older model of car. Sometimes called fobs, proximity keys or remotes they permit drivers to unlock their cars and begin using them without the need for the physical key. The technology has been in use since the 1990s however, it was a feature that was mostly found in automobiles at the time.
Basically, smart keys communicate with vehicle by sending a wireless signal through radio waves. The signals are encrypted, and only your car can read them. Certain keys come with a button to activate your car's ignition or lock. Other keys may also have GPS technology that determines the location of your vehicle if stolen.
The key could be a small fob or embedded in the handle. If you lose it you'll need to visit your dealership or auto locksmith for help to replace it. This is because smart keys aren't like your regular keys and only a car dealer can replace them.
The cost will depend on the model and make of car you have as well as the model of your key. For instance, a basic key with a lock and key mechanism will usually only cost $10-$12 to replace. A transponder key on the other hand, will likely be a bit more costly. It is generally necessary to bring your spare smart key and evidence of ownership to the dealer in order to get it replaced.
Some experts caution against the use of smart keys because they can be hacked by someone who knows what to look for. For instance, the signals transmitted by smart keys are relatively low-frequency when compared to other devices, making them easy to detect at a gas station. This kind of hack may even operate from the distance according to How Stuff Works Electronics.
In all likelihood the use of smart keys is becoming more popular and much more convenient than traditional keys. They protect cars and give owners peace of mind, and assist them to stay organized. It is recommended to invest in one and keep a spare key on hand just in case.