Replacement Keys For Cars
It is a common occurrence for everyone. They tend to disappear from coat pockets or sofa cushions only to be discovered at the worst possible time.
Keys for replacement for cars are easier to find than they were in the past. You can replace them at auto locksmiths, hardware stores and dealerships.
Keys stolen or lost
Car keys can be stolen or lost in many ways. Sometimes they break, but other times they are misplaced or are put in a spot where they can be easily located. Sometimes they simply wear out to the point where they are no longer functional. It is always a smart idea to keep an extra key in case you need to keep from the burden of replacing one.
If you lose your key the best thing to do is to contact your local automotive locksmith as soon as possible. You will usually be able to find a replacement key at an affordable price than you'd buy from an auto dealer. The locksmith can also program features of your car like hands-free boot opening on the on the spot.
Make sure you have your VIN number before you call. This is required to determine the exact year and model of the vehicle for the purpose of creating an entirely new key. You may locate this on your dashboard, or you may need to verify the title or registration papers.
Depending on the kind of key you have it could be more expensive to replace at the dealership. Dealerships keep the track of this information, and are in a position to provide you with an updated key in a short time. They are also in a position to offer you a genuine key from the factory that is fitted with the latest security features built in.
If you have a standard key that's a turn-key it is cheaper to go to an auto locksmith in your area. The locksmith can make you a replacement key for much cheaper than the dealer and often, they will visit you on the spot.
The only problem with this is if your keys are transponder style that means they contain a chip inside them that has been programmed to work with a specific vehicle. Locksmiths can typically create keys for you, however, they are not able to program them. You'll have bring it to your dealer to get it programmed.
Fob Keys
If you have a fob that allows you to open and start your vehicle, or the fob is damaged, then you will need a new one. Fob keys can be purchased from the locksmiths, dealers and in some instances, you can purchase one online. The cost is largely contingent on the make and model of your vehicle and if it comes with a transponder key or not.
A simple key 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 key that has a transponder chip that verifies the owner of the key, or a more advanced key, could be more expensive. This is especially true for late model cars.
Keep an extra key or fob with you at all times to avoid money on replacements. If you don't have enough money to carry around a spare request the dealer to add two sets of keys to the purchase price, or to add a third the order. This will prevent you from paying more fees later. There are also laser-cut keys that are made by the aftermarket at a price that is lower than those offered by the dealer. Some sellers online can program your new key for you, however this could void any warranty on the original key, and could be illegal in some states.
Try charging or resetting the battery prior to deciding to replace your broken device. A dead battery could be the reason behind the fob not working or cannot be programmed. You can also alter the buttons on a fob if they are stuck or broken. If these steps don't work, a dealership could be your only option, unless you locate an automotive locksmith who has the equipment to work with the latest models. Generally, dealers are the most expensive option, however they also have the greatest knowledge of car systems and technology. They may take a long time to work on your vehicle and aren't guaranteed to offer the lowest price.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as chip keys are a new type of key with embedded a computer chip within it. The chip sends a coded signal to the car whenever the key is inserted into the lock cylinder. The code is then used by the car to turn on the engine and open the doors. They are also than a challenge to steal and can be a great method to deter theft.
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 crucial to keep in mind that if you're replacing an old key, you'll still need to program it to match the ECM code of your car.
If you already have an original transponder, you can get a duplicate made. This will not permit you to start your car, however, since most cars are equipped with immobilizer systems that require the correct keys to be used for them to function.
In the past, it was simple to hot-wire a car. This involves connecting two wires from the car's ignition to a power source in another location, for instance an apartment building. The car then starts when the starter is switched on. Transponder keys make it more difficult for thieves to do this since the criminal requires 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 car has an immobilizer system, it will not start when you use a non-transponder key. This is why it is important to always have a spare transponder key in your pocket or purse in case. You will need to contact your local locksmith to copy the key if you lose it. Dealers will also charge a premium for this service as they often have the exclusive rights to make the key for certain models of cars.
Smart Keys Keys
There is a chance that you have an intelligent key in case you own a more recent model of car. These devices, also known as remotes, proximity keys or fobs, enable users to open and start their vehicles without using the physical keys of their car. The technology has been around since the 1990s however, it was a feature found mainly in high-end automobiles of the time.
Smart keys communicate with vehicles via the radio wireless wave. These signals are encrypted, and only your vehicle is able to read the signals. Some keys have a button to activate the ignition of your vehicle or lock. Other keys may also have GPS technology that can track your vehicle's location in the event of it being stolen.
The key itself could be a small, nifty fob that fits in your pocket, or it can be placed in the handle of your car. If you lose your key, you will need to contact your auto locksmith or dealer to request replacement. Smart keys are different from traditional keys and can only be replaced by a dealer.
The cost is contingent on the make and model of your car, as well as the type of key you own. A standard key with the lock-and-key mechanism is priced at between $10 and $12. A transponder key, on the contrary, could be a bit more expensive. You'll typically need to bring your spare smart key along with evidence of ownership to your dealer to replace it.
Some experts warn against the use of smart keys due to the fact that they are susceptible to hacking by a person who knows what to look for. Smart keys, for instance transmit signals at a relatively low frequency compared to other devices. This makes them easier to obtain at the gas station. According to How Stuff Works Electronics, this kind of hack is possible from some distance.
Smart keys are becoming more popular and convenient. They protect cars and provide owners with peace of mind, and help them stay organized. replacement car keys should invest in one and keep a spare key in your car just in case.