Replacement Keys For Cars
It happens to everyone. They tend to disappear from coat pockets or on couch cushions, only to be discovered at the worst possible time.
Car keys replacements are more easily found than they were in the past. You can get them replaced at auto locksmiths, hardware shops and dealerships.
Keys stolen or lost
There are a myriad of ways car keys could be stolen or lost. Sometimes they break, other times they're lost or put in a spot that they can easily found. Sometimes, they wear out to the point that they're no longer functioning. It is always a good idea to have a spare key to avoid the burden of replacing one.
Contact your local locksmith immediately if you lose your keys. They'll usually be able to make new keys at a lower cost than what it costs at an auto dealer. The locksmith can also program the features of your car, such as hands-free boot opening, right on the spot.
Make sure you have your VIN number before you call. This is needed to determine the exact year and model of the car for the purpose of creating an entirely new key. You can find it on your dashboard or in the registration or title papers of your vehicle.
Depending on the kind of key you have it could be more costly to buy a new one from a dealer. Dealerships will keep track of your details to ensure that you get an replacement key as fast as possible. You can also get authentic factory replacement keys that have all the most recent security features.
If you have a standard lock that's a turn-key, it's cheaper to visit an auto locksmith in your area. The locksmith will offer you the replacement key for much less than a dealer and will frequently come to your place.
The only problem with this is if your keys are transponder-style, which means they contain a chip inside them that has been programmed to work with the particular vehicle. Locksmiths can usually make keys for you, but they cannot program them. You will need bring it to your dealer to have it programmed.
Fob Keys
If you have a fob to start and open your vehicle, or if the fob is broken it is time to get a new one. how.much is a replacement car key are available at the locksmith, dealerships and in some cases, you can buy one on the internet. The cost is based on the make and model of your car and whether or not it comes with a transponder.
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 dollars. A key with a transponder chip that verifies the owner of the key or a more advanced key, could be more expensive. This is especially relevant for cars that are late in their production.
The best method to save money on fobs and keys that need replacement is to always have an extra set on hand. If you're unable to carry a spare around with you, ask the dealer 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 that are made by the aftermarket at a lower price than those sold by the dealer. Some sellers on the internet can program your new key fob, but this may invalidate the warranty of the original and may be illegal in some states.
Try recharging or resetting the battery before deciding to replace your broken device. A dead battery could be the cause of an unresponsive keyfob or isn't programmed. You can also alter the buttons of the fob if they're broken or stuck. If none of these methods work, a dealership may be the only option unless you can find a locksmith for your vehicle that has the tools to work with the latest models. Dealers are generally the most expensive option, however they also have the most extensive knowledge of the car's systems and technology. However, they may take a long time to fix your vehicle and aren't able to offer the best prices.
Transponder Keys
Chip keys, also known as transponder keys are a modern key that has embedded computer chips on the. The chip will send an encoded signal to the vehicle every time the key cylinder is inserted. The car will use this code to start the engine or unlock the doors. They are much more difficult to steal and are an excellent way to deter thieves.
A professional automotive locksmith can cut an ordinary replacement transponder key (chip) for your car for a much lower cost than what the dealer will charge. It is important to keep in mind that you'll still require the key to be programmed to match the code in your vehicle's ECM if you are replacing an existing one.
If you already have an original transponder you can get a duplicate made. This will not allow you to start your car, however, since most cars are equipped with immobilizer systems that require the correct key to be used in order for them to work.
In the past, it was very easy to hot wire the car. This involves running two wires from the car's ignition to a power source in another location, like an apartment building. The car will start when the starter is turned on. Transponder keys make it more difficult for thieves, as they need the correct key to transmit the encrypted signals from the chip on key to the ignition system of the car.
If your car is equipped with an immobilizer, it won't start if you have a non-transponder. This is why it's important to keep an extra transponder keys in your purse or pocket in case of. You'll need to contact your local locksmith shop to copy the key if you lose it. Dealers will charge more for this service, as they have exclusive rights to manufacture keys for certain car brands.
Smart Keys Keys
If you drive a newer model vehicle, it is likely that your key is equipped with a smart element in it. These devices, also known as remotes, proximity keys or fobs, enable users to open and start their cars without using a physical car key. The technology has been in use since the 1990s, but was a feature that was mostly found in automobiles of the time.
Basically smart keys communicate with your vehicle via a wireless signal through radio waves. These signals are encrypted and only your vehicle is able to read them. Based on the key you have it could have a button that activates your car's locks or ignition, and some also have built-in GPS technology to track your vehicle's location if ever stolen.
The key itself could be a small keychain that fits inside your pocket, or can be placed in the handle of your car. Either way, if you lose your key you'll have to visit your dealership or auto locksmith for help in replacing it. This is because smart keys aren't like your regular keys and only a dealer of your car can replace them.
The cost will depend on the make and type of vehicle you own and also the type of key. For example, a basic key that has a lock-and-key mechanism is usually priced between $10-$12 to replace. Transponder keys on the other hand, tend to be more expensive. In general, you'll need bring your spare smart key as well as evidence of ownership to the car dealer to get it replaced.
Some experts caution against the convenience 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 obtain at a gas station. According to How Stuff Works Electronics, this kind of hack is possible from some distance.
Smart keys are becoming increasingly popular and convenient. They protect cars and provide owners with peace of mind, and help them stay organized. You should consider investing in one, but keep a spare key on hand just in case.