Replacement Keys For Cars
It happens to all. They are prone to slip out of coat pockets or under sofa cushions only to be discovered at the most inconvenient moment.
Replacement keys for cars are more easily found than they were in the past. Here are a few of your options for replacing keys: auto locksmiths, dealers and hardware stores.
Keys stolen or lost
Car keys can get stolen or lost in many ways. They can break, get misplaced, or be left in an area where they can be easily found. Sometimes they simply wear out to the point where they can no longer function. It is always a smart idea to have a spare key to keep from the burden of replacing one.
Contact your local automotive locksmith right away if your keys. You will usually be able to get a replacement key at less than what you'd pay a dealer. The locksmith might also be in a position to program your car's features like hands-free boot release on the on the spot.
Before calling, make sure to get your car's VIN number, which is necessary to find the exact year and model of the vehicle in order to create new keys. 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 type. Dealerships keep track of this information and will be in a position to provide you with a new key quickly. You can also get a genuine factory-replacement key with all the most recent security features.
If you have a standard lock that's a turnkey, it's cheaper to visit a local auto locksmith. The locksmith will offer you an exchange for your key for much less than a dealer and will frequently come to your place.
The only exception is if you have transponder keys which are programmed to work for a specific vehicle. Locksmiths are usually capable of making the key for you, but they will not be able to program it, and you'll need to take it to the dealership to get this done.
Fob Keys
If your car uses a fob key to open and start the car you will require an alternative in the event that it malfunctions or gets lost. Fob keys are available at the locksmith, dealerships and in some cases, you can buy one online. The cost varies widely depending on the make and model of your car and whether it has a transponder key or not.
A simple fob, which emits a signal that opens the doors and begins the engine, can usually be repaired at a dealer or by locksmiths for less than $300. A key with a transponder chip that verifies the driver is the owner, or a more advanced key, could be more costly. This is especially true for late model cars.
Keep an extra key or fob with you at all times to save money on replacements. If you can't afford to carry a spare around with you and the dealer isn't willing to include two sets of keys as part of the purchase price or add a 3rd set to to avoid paying a larger fee later on. You can also find laser-cut keys from the aftermarket at a price that is lower than those sold by the dealer. Some online sellers can program your new key for you, but this may void any warranty that was provided with the original key, and could be illegal in some states.
Try charging or resetting car key fob replacement before deciding to replace the broken fob. 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 stuck or broken. If these methods don't work, you may have to go to a dealership or an automotive locksmith, unless the locksmith has the required equipment for programming the most recent models. Typically, dealers are the most expensive option, however they also have the most extensive knowledge of the car's systems and technology. They may take some time to work on your vehicle and they are not guaranteed to offer the lowest cost.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as chip keys are a type of key that has embedded a computer chip within it. The chip transmits an encoded signal to the vehicle when the key cylinder is put in. The car utilizes this code to start the engine or unlock the doors. These are much harder to steal, and an excellent way to deter thieves.
A professional locksmith for automotive can cut a basic replacement transponder key (chip) for your car for a much lower cost than what a dealer would charge. It is important to remember that you will still require the key to be programmed to match the code in your vehicle's ECM when replacing an existing one.
If you already have an original transponder, you can get a duplicate made. It will not be in a position to start your car, as many cars have immobilizer systems which require a specific key to function.
In the past, it was simple to hot wire a car. It involves running two wires from the car's engine to a power source in another location, like an apartment. The car will start when the starter is switched on. Transponder keys make it more difficult for thieves since they require the correct key to transmit the encrypted signals from the chip in the key to the ignition system of the vehicle.
This makes the key more difficult to steal, and if your car has an immobilizer system, it will not start when you use a non-transponder key. This is why it's important to keep an extra transponder keys in your pocket or purse in case. If you lose your spare key, then you'll have contact your local locksmith for automotive or dealer to copy the key you lost to restart your car. Dealers will charge you more for this service since they have exclusive rights to manufacture keys for certain car brands.
Smart Keys
There is a chance that you have smart keys when you drive a newer model of car. These devices, often referred to as remotes, proximity keys or fobs, allow drivers to unlock and start their vehicles without the need for a physical car key. The technology is not new however it was only available in top-of-the-line luxury vehicles at the time.
Smart keys communicate with vehicles via a radio wireless wave. The signals are encrypted, and only your vehicle can read the signals. Depending on the type of key you use that you have, it may come with a button that activates the ignition or locks on your car and some even have built-in GPS technology to track the location of your vehicle if it's ever stolen.
The key could be a small fob or placed inside the handle. If you lose your key, you will need to contact your auto locksmith or dealer to get it replaced. This is because smart keys aren't the standard traditional key, and only the car dealer can replace them.
The price will depend on the type and make of car you own, as well as your key. For instance, a basic key that has a lock-and-key mechanism is usually priced between $10-$12 to replace. A transponder key, on other hand, is likely to be a bit more costly. In general, you'll need bring your spare smart key and proof of ownership to the dealer of your vehicle to have it replaced.
Some experts caution against the convenience of smart keys because they can be hacked by someone who knows what to look for. Smart keys, for instance transmit signals at a lower frequency than other devices. This makes them simple to pick up from an oil station. This kind of hack can even work from an extended distance according to How Stuff Works Electronics.
In all likelihood smart keys are becoming more common and a lot more convenient than the older versions. They help keep cars safe and give owners peace of mind, and aid to keep them organized. It's a good idea to invest in one of these but ensure that you have a backup key on hand just in case.