Replacement Keys For Cars
Losing car keys happens to the best of us. They tend to disappear from coat pockets or on couch cushions, only to be found at the worst possible time.
Fortunately keys to replace for cars aren't as difficult to obtain as they were. Here are a few alternatives to replace keys: auto locksmiths, dealers and hardware stores.
Keys stolen or lost
There are many ways that keys to cars can be lost or stolen. Sometimes they break, other times they're lost or put in a spot that they can easily found. Sometimes they simply wear out to the point that they can no longer function. Whatever the reason it's always an excellent idea to have an extra car key in order to save the hassle and expense of getting one replaced.
Contact your local locksmith right away if you have lost your keys. They'll usually be able to make you new keys for less than it costs at the dealership. The locksmith may also be in a position to program your car's features, like hands-free boot release on the spot.
Be sure to bring your VIN number before you call. This is required to determine the year and model of the vehicle in order to make the new key. You can find it on your dashboard or in the title or registration 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 your details to ensure that you get the replacement key as soon as they can. They are also in a position to offer you an authentic factory replacement key that comes with the most recent security features that are built into.
On the other side, if you own a standard turn-key type of key, it is more affordable to use an auto locksmith in your area. The locksmith will make you a key replacement at a lower cost than the dealer and frequently come to your place.
The only problem with this is if your keys are transponder style that is, they have a chip within them that is programmed to work with a particular vehicle. Locksmiths are usually able to make keys for you, however, they are not able to program them. You'll have bring it in to your dealer to have it programmed.
Fob Keys
If you have a fob to start and open your vehicle, or the fob is damaged and you need an alternative. Fob keys can be replaced by the dealership or a locksmith in certain cases, you can even order one from the internet. The cost of replacement varies greatly based on the make and model of your vehicle as well as whether it has a transponder key or not.
A simple fob, that emits a signal that opens the doors and starts the engine, can typically be replaced by a dealer or by locksmiths for less than $300. A more advanced key with an integrated transponder chip that can verify that the driver is indeed the owner can be more expensive, particularly for late-model cars.
Keep a spare fob or key with you always in case you need to save money on replacements. If you can't afford to carry a spare around with you then ask the dealer to include two sets of keys as part of the purchase price or add a third set to to avoid paying a larger cost later. There are laser-cut aftermarket keys online for a much lower cost than those sold by dealers. Some sellers online can program your new key for you, but that could invalidate any warranty that was provided with 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 culprit for a key fob that won't start or isn't programmed. It's also possible the buttons on a fob could become stuck or damaged and adjusting them can solve the issue. If these steps do not work, you may have to visit a dealer or an automotive locksmith, unless the locksmith has the necessary equipment for programming the latest models. Dealers are usually the most expensive, but also have the most in-depth knowledge of car technology and systems. They can take a while to fix your vehicle and they are not guaranteed to offer the lowest cost.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys or chip keys are a more contemporary key that has an embedded computer chip on it. The chip will send an encoded signal to the vehicle when the key cylinder is put in. The code is then used by the car to start the engine and open the doors. These are much harder to steal, and is a great way to deter thieves.
A professional locksmith can cut a basic replacement transponder key (chip) for your vehicle at a price that is lower than what a dealer would charge. It is important to note that you will still need to have the key programmed to match the code in your vehicle's ECM if you are replacing an existing key.
If you already have an original transponder you can have a copy made. This will not allow you to start your car, however, since the majority of automobiles are equipped with immobilizer systems that require the correct key to be used in order for them to work.
In the past, it was easy to hot-wire a car. This is the process of connecting two wires from the car's engine to a power supply in another location such as an apartment. The car will start when the starter is turned on. Transponder keys make it more difficult 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 ignition system.
If your vehicle has an immobilizer, it won't start if you're using an untransponderable key. It is therefore important to keep an extra transponder in your purse or pocket just in case. You'll need to call your local automotive locksmith to duplicate the key if you lose it. Dealers will charge a higher fee for this service, as they are the only ones who can make keys for specific car brands.
Smart Keys Keys
You may have a smart key in case you own a more recent model of car. They are often called fobs, proximity keys or remotes These devices let drivers unlock their vehicles and start them without requiring a physical key. The technology isn't new however it was only accessible in high-end automobiles at the time.
Basically, smart keys communicate with the vehicle via a wireless signal through radio waves. The signals are encrypted, and only your car is able to read them. Some keys have a button to activate your car's ignition or locks. Others may also include GPS technology that tracks your vehicle's location if stolen.
The key itself can either be a small, nifty fob that can be tucked away inside your pocket, or could be a part of the handle of your car. If you lose your key you will need to contact your auto locksmith or dealer in order to replace it. This is because smart keys aren't like your standard traditional key, and only the dealer of your car can replace them.
How much will depend on the model and make of your car and the type of key you own. For instance, a basic key that has a lock-and-key mechanism will usually only cost $10 to $12 to replace. A transponder key, on other hand, will likely be a bit more expensive. Generally, you'll need to bring your spare smart key along with proof of ownership to your car dealer to get it replaced.
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 instance transmit signals at lower frequency than other devices. This makes them simple to get from the gas station. According to How replacement car fob key , this kind of hack is possible from some distance.
Smart keys are becoming more popular and are more practical. They protect cars and offer peace of mind, and help owners keep their keys organized. You should invest in one and keep a spare key handy just in case.