Replacement Keys For Cars
Car keys are lost to the most seasoned of us. They are prone to slip out of coat pockets or under couch cushions, only to be found at the most inconvenient times.
Keys for replacement for cars are much easier to locate than they used to be. You can replace them at auto locksmiths, hardware stores and dealerships.
Lost or Stolen keys
Car keys can be lost or stolen in various ways. Sometimes they break, but other times they are misplaced or are placed in a location that they can easily located. Sometimes, they wear out to the point that they're no longer functioning. It is always a smart idea to keep an extra key to avoid the hassle of having to replace one.
Contact your local locksmith right away if you have lost your keys. It is possible to get a replacement key at an affordable price than you'd pay a dealer. The locksmith may also be capable of programming your car's features, such as hands-free boot release, on the moment of the call.
Before you call, be sure that you have the VIN number from your car, which is necessary to determine the exact model and year of the vehicle in order to make an original key. It is located on your dashboard or in the registration or title papers of your vehicle.
The cost of replacing your key at a dealership could be more expensive depending on the kind of key. Dealerships keep the track of this information, so they will be able to get you the key you need quickly. You can also get an authentic factory-replacement key that has all the latest security features.
If you have a standard key that's a turnkey, it's cheaper to visit a local auto locksmith. The locksmith can provide you with an exchange for your key for much less than the dealer and often visit your location.
The only issue is if your keys are a transponder style that is, they have a chip in them that has been programmed to work with the particular vehicle. auto key replacement can usually make keys for you, but they cannot program them. You'll need bring it in to your dealer to get it programmed.
Fob Keys
If you have a fob to open and start your car, or if the fob is broken and you need a new one. Fob keys are available at the locksmiths, dealers, or in some cases you can order one online. The cost will depend on the model and brand of your vehicle and whether or not it comes with transponders.
A simple fob, which emits a signal to open the doors and then starts the engine, can typically be replaced at an auto dealer or locksmiths for less than $300. A key with a transponder chip that verifies the owner is the person who purchased it or a more advanced key, could be more costly. This is especially applicable to late model cars.
The most efficient method to save money on replacement keys and fobs is to always have a spare with you. If you don't have the funds to carry around an extra set of keys request the dealer to add two sets of keys to the purchase price or to add a third the order. This will save you from having to pay higher costs later. You can also find laser-cut keys from the aftermarket for a much lower cost than those offered by the dealer. Some online sellers can program the new fob for you, however this may void any warranty that was provided with the original key and may be illegal in some states.
Before you decide to replace a broken fob, try recharging the battery or resetting it. A dead battery could be the cause of an unresponsive keyfob or cannot be programmed. It's also possible the buttons on a fob can become stuck or damaged and adjusting them could fix the problem. If none of these solutions work, a dealership may be the only option, unless you can find a locksmith for your vehicle that has the programming equipment to work with the most recent models. Dealers are usually the most expensive, but also have the most comprehensive knowledge of the latest technology and systems. They may take a long time to fix your vehicle and they're not sure of offering the best cost.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, or chip keys are a modern type of key that has a computer chip embedded in it. car key replacement sends an encoded signal to the car when the key is inserted into the lock cylinder. This code is then used by the car to turn on the engine and then open the doors. They are much more difficult to steal and are a great way to discourage thieves.
A professional locksmith for automotive will be able to cut a basic transponder chip (key) for your vehicle at a cheaper cost than dealers. It is important to keep in mind that you'll require the key to be programmed to match the number in your vehicle's ECM when replacing an existing one.
If you already have an original transponder you can have a copy made. It will not be able to start your vehicle, as many cars have immobilizer systems which require a specific key to function.
In the past, it was easy to wire a hot car. This is the process of running 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. However, transponder keys make it harder for thieves to do this, since they require the correct key to transmit the coded signal from the chip on the key to the ignition system.
This makes the key difficult to steal, and if your car has an immobilizer system, it will not start if you use the key that is not transponder-compatible. It is therefore essential to keep an extra transponder in your purse or pocket just in case. You'll need to call your local automotive locksmith to copy the key if you lose it. Dealers will charge you more for this service, since they have exclusive rights to make keys for specific car brands.
Smart Keys Keys
If you own a more modern model vehicle, it is likely that your car key has an electronic component that is smart. They are often called fobs, proximity keys or remotes, these devices permit drivers to unlock their cars and begin using them without using an actual key. The technology has been around since the 1990s however, it was a feature used in high-end automobiles at the time.
Basically smart keys communicate with the vehicle by sending an electronic signal via radio waves. These signals are encrypted and only your vehicle can read the signals. Depending on the type of key you use, it may include a button that activates your car's locks or ignition as well as some with built-in GPS technology that tracks the location of your vehicle if it's ever stolen.
The key itself could be a small, nifty fob that can be tucked away in your pocket, or can be placed in the handle of your car. In either case, if you lose it you'll need to visit your dealership or auto locksmith for assistance with replacement. Smart keys are different from traditional keys and can only be replaced by the dealer.
The cost is contingent on the model and make of your car and the type of key you have. For instance, a standard key that uses a lock-and-key mechanism is typically priced between $10-$12 to replace. A transponder key, on other hand, is likely to be a bit more costly. In general, you'll have to bring your spare smart key along with evidence of ownership to the dealership to get it replaced.
Some experts warn against the convenience of smart keys due to the fact that they can be hacked by a person who knows what to look for. For example the signals sent by smart keys are relatively low-frequency when compared to other devices, making them easy to detect at the gas pump. 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 popular and much more convenient than traditional keys. They protect cars and offer peace of mind, and help owners keep their keys organized. It's a good idea to invest in one but ensure that you have a backup key in your car, in case of emergency.