Replacement Keys For Cars
Losing car keys happens to the best of us. They can disappear from pockets on coats or sofa cushions only to be discovered at the most inconvenient time.
Keys for replacement for cars are more easily found than they were in the past. You can replace them at auto locksmiths, hardware shops and dealerships.
Keys stolen or lost
Car keys can get stolen or lost in a variety of ways. Sometimes they break, but other times they are misplaced or get left in a place that they can easily located. Sometimes they even just wear out until they no longer function properly. It is always a smart idea to keep a spare key to avoid the stress of replacing one.
If you have lost your key, the best thing to do is to contact your local auto locksmith as soon as possible. It is possible to obtain a replacement key for a lower price than you would pay at a dealer. The locksmith can also program features of your car for hands-free boot opening, right on the on the spot.
Be sure to have your VIN number when you call. This is needed to determine the year and model of the car in order to create the 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 may be higher based on the type. Dealerships keep the track of this information, and will be able to get you a new key quickly. They are also able to provide you with a genuine factory replacement key that comes with the latest security features that are built into.
If you have a standard lock that's a turnkey it's more affordable to visit a local auto locksmith. The locksmith will make you an exchange for your key for much less than the dealer and often come to your location.
The only issue is if the keys are transponder-style that is, they have a chip in them that has been programmed to work with a specific vehicle. Locksmiths can typically make keys for you, however, they are not able to program them. You'll need bring it in to your dealer to get it programmed.
Fob Keys
If your car is equipped with a fob key to open and start the vehicle and start it, you'll need replacement in the event that it malfunctions or gets lost. Fob keys are available at the dealership, locksmiths 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 transponders.
A simple fob that emits an indication to open the doors and start the engine could be replaced by a locksmith or dealer for less than $300. A more sophisticated key that also has an embedded transponder chip to verify that the driver is indeed the owner can be more costly, especially for vehicles of the latest model.
Keep a spare key or fob with you at all times to save money on replacements. If you aren't able to carry a spare with you and the dealer isn't willing to include two sets of keys in the purchase price or add a third set to to avoid paying a higher fee later on. There are laser-cut aftermarket keys online for a much lower cost than those sold by dealers. Some sellers on the internet will program the new key fob, but this could 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 could be the cause of a keyfob that won't work or isn't programmed. You can also adjust the buttons of a fob if they are broken or stuck. If the steps above don't work, you may have to visit a dealer or an automotive locksmith, unless the locksmith has the necessary equipment to program the most current models. Generally, dealers are the most expensive option, however they also have the greatest knowledge of car systems and technology. However, they may take an extended time to fix your vehicle and aren't able to have the lowest prices.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, or chip keys, are a type of key that comes with embedded a computer chip within it. The chip will send an encoded signal to the vehicle whenever the key cylinder is put in. The car uses this code to start the engine or open the doors. They are also secure and are a great way to stop theft.
A professional automotive locksmith will be able to cut the basic transponder chip (key) for your vehicle at a cheaper cost than an auto dealer. It is important to remember that if you're replacing an old key, you'll still need to program it to match the ECM code of your car.
You can also have the basic transponder key copied from the original if have it. This will not permit you to start your car, however, as most cars are equipped with immobilizer systems which require a specific key to be used in order to function.
In the past, it was simple to hot wire an automobile. This involves connecting two wires from the ignition to a power source in another location, such as 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 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 vehicle has an immobilizer that is not working, the car will not start if you use the key that is not transponder-compatible. It is therefore essential to keep an extra transponder in your pocket or purse just in case. You'll need to call your local automotive locksmith to duplicate the key if you lose it. Dealers will also charge a fee for this service since they often have the exclusive right to create keys for certain models of cars.
Smart Keys
If you own a more modern model vehicle, it is likely that your car key has a smart element in it. These devices, also known as proximity keys, remotes, or fobs, enable users to open and start their cars without having to use the physical keys of their car. This technology is not new, but it was only available in top-of-the-line luxury vehicles at the time.
Smart keys communicate with vehicles by sending an radio wireless wave. The signals are encrypted and only your vehicle can read them. Depending on your key, it may include the button that turns on the ignition or locks of your car, and some also have built-in GPS technology that tracks your vehicle's location if ever stolen.
The key itself could be a small fob that fits in your pocket, or it can be placed in the car's handle. If car replacement key cost lose it you'll have to go to your dealer or auto locksmith for assistance with replacement. Smart keys are different from traditional keys and can only be replaced by the dealer.
The price will depend on the type and make of vehicle you own, as well as your key. For instance, a standard key that has a lock-and-key mechanism is typically priced between $10-$12 to replace. A transponder key, on other hand, will likely be a bit more costly. You'll usually need to bring your spare smart key along with evidence of ownership to the dealer to replace it.
Some experts caution against the use of smart keys due to the fact that they can be hacked by someone who knows what to look for. Smart keys, for instance transmit signals at a relatively low frequency compared to other devices. This makes them simple to get from an oil station. This kind of hack can even work from the distance according to How Stuff Works Electronics.
In all likelihood the use of smart keys is becoming more common and are a lot more practical than traditional keys. They help keep cars safe and provide owners with peace of mind, and assist to keep them organized. It's a good idea purchase one however, make sure you keep a backup key in your car, in case of emergency.