Replacement Keys For Cars
It is a common occurrence for everyone. They have a tendency to slip out of pockets on coats or underneath sofa cushions only to be discovered at the most inconvenient times.
Car keys replacements are more easily found than they used to be. Here are a few of your options for replacing them: auto locksmiths, hardware stores and dealerships.
Lost or Stolen keys
There are many ways that car keys can be stolen or lost. They could break, be lost, or be left in a location where they are easily found. Sometimes, they get worn down to the point that they are no longer functioning properly. It is always a good idea to have an extra key in case you need to save the hassle of having to replace one.
If you have lost your key the best thing to do is to contact your local auto locksmith as soon as you can. They'll usually be able to create a replacement key for less than it costs at a dealership. The locksmith might also be able to program your car's features, like hands-free boot release, on the spot.
Before you call, be sure you have your car's VIN number that is required to find out the exact model and year of the vehicle to create a new key. You might be able to find this on your dashboard or you may have to verify the title or registration documents.
Depending on the kind of key you have it could be more costly to purchase a new one at the dealership. Dealerships will keep track of your information to ensure that you receive the replacement key as soon as they can. They'll also be in a position to offer you an authentic key from the factory that is fitted with the most recent security features that are built into.
On the other hand, if you have an ordinary turn-key key, it's cheaper to go to an auto locksmith in your area. The locksmith will offer you a key replacement for a lot less than a dealer and will often visit your location.
The only problem with this is if the keys are transponder style, which means they contain a chip inside them that has been programmed to work with the particular vehicle. Locksmiths can typically make keys for you, but they cannot program them. You'll have bring it in to your dealer in order to have it programmed.
Fob Keys
If you have a fob to start and open your vehicle, or if the fob is damaged and you need a new one. Fob keys can be replaced by a dealership or a locksmith in certain cases you can order one from the internet. The cost is based on the model and brand of your vehicle as well as whether or not it is equipped with a transponder.
A simple fob that emits signals to open the doors and start the engine could be replaced by a dealer or locksmith for less than $300. A key with an embedded transponder chip to prove that the driver is the owner or a more advanced key, can be more costly. This is especially applicable to late model cars.
The most efficient method to save on replacement keys and fobs is to always have an extra set on hand. If you don't have the money 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 save you from having to pay higher costs later. You can also purchase aftermarket, laser-cut keys online at a lower price than the ones sold by the dealer. Some online sellers can program your new key fob, however this may void the warranty on the original and may be illegal in certain states.
Before you decide to replace a broken fob, you can try charging the battery or resetting it. A dead battery is usually the reason for a key fob that won't turn on or cannot be programmed. You can also adjust the buttons on the fob in case they're stuck or broken. If none of these methods work, a dealership may be the only option, in the event that you cannot locate an automotive locksmith who has the tools to work with the most recent models. Dealers are generally the most expensive option, but they also have the best knowledge of the car's systems and technology. However, they may take an extended time to repair your car and aren't guaranteed to have the lowest prices.
Transponder Keys
Chip keys or transponder keys are a more contemporary key that has an embedded computer chip on the. The chip will send a coded signal to the car whenever the key is put into the lock cylinder. This code is then used by the car to start the engine and open the doors. These are much more difficult to steal and are a great way to stop theft.
A professional locksmith for automotive can cut an ordinary transponder chip (key) for your vehicle for less than a dealer. It is important to note that you'll need to have the key programmed to match the code in your vehicle's ECM in the event that you replace an existing one.
car key replacements can also have a basic transponder key cloned from the original if have it. This will not allow you to start your car, however, as most cars have immobilizer systems that require the correct key to be used in order for them to function.
In the past, it was very easy to heat wire a car. This process involves connecting two wires from the ignition to a power source at another location, for instance an apartment building. The car will start when the starter is switched on. Transponder keys make it more difficult for thieves to steal this as the thief needs the correct key to transmit the coded signal from the chip on the key to the ignition system.
If your car is equipped with an immobilizer, it will not start if you have a non-transponder. This is why it is important to always have an extra transponder key in your pocket or purse in case of. If you have lost your spare key, then you will have to call your local locksmith or the dealer to clone the lost key in order to start your car again. Dealers will charge a higher fee for this service, as they are the only ones who can manufacture keys for certain car brands.
Smart Keys Keys
There is a chance that you have a smart key if you drive an older model of vehicle. These devices, also known as remotes, proximity keys or fobs, allow drivers to unlock and start their vehicles without having to use the physical keys of their car. The technology has been in use since the 1990s, but was a feature found mainly in high-end automobiles of the time.
Basically smart keys communicate with vehicle via an electronic signal via radio waves. These signals are encrypted, and only your vehicle is able to read them. Based on the key you have it could have the button that turns on the ignition or locks of your car, and some also have built-in GPS technology that can track the location of your vehicle if it's ever stolen.
The key can be a small fob, or embedded in the handle. In either case, if you lose it, you'll likely need to go to your dealer or auto locksmith to assist with replacement. 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 own, as well as your key. A standard key that has a lock-and -key mechanism costs between $10 and $12. A transponder key, on contrary, could be a bit more costly. You'll usually need to bring your spare smart key along with evidence of ownership to the car dealer in order to get it replaced.
Some experts caution against the convenience of smart keys, as 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 easy to obtain from the gas station. According to How Stuff Works Electronics, this kind of hack is even possible from the distance.
Smart keys are becoming more popular and are more convenient. They help keep cars safe and give owners peace of mind, and assist to keep them organized. You should invest in one, but keep a spare key on hand just in case.