Replacement Keys For Cars
Losing car keys happens to the very best of us. They are prone to disappear from coat pockets or under couch cushions, only to be discovered at the most inconvenient moment.
Fortunately keys for replacement for cars aren't as hard to obtain as they were. You can replace them at auto locksmiths, hardware stores and dealerships.
Lost or Stolen Keys
Car keys can be lost or stolen in a variety of ways. Sometimes they break, other times they're lost or are put in a spot that they can easily located. Sometimes, they get worn down to the point that they are no longer functioning properly. It is always a smart idea to have a spare key to keep from the hassle of having to replace one.
Contact your local automotive locksmith right away if your keys. They will usually be able to make you new keys for less than it will cost at an auto dealer. The locksmith will probably 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 you have your car's VIN number, which is necessary to find the exact model and year of the vehicle to create new keys. It is located 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 expensive to purchase a new one at the dealership. Dealerships keep track of this information so they will be capable of obtaining a new key quickly. They will also be capable of providing you with a genuine key from a factory that is with the most recent security features built in.
If you have a standard lock that is a turn-key, it's cheaper to visit a local auto locksmith. The locksmith will offer you an exchange for your key at a lower cost than the dealer and often come to your location.
The only exception is when you have transponder keys, which are programmed for the specific vehicle. Locksmiths can usually create keys for you but they cannot program them. You'll need to bring it to your dealer to get it programmed.
Fob Keys
If you have a fob to open and start your vehicle, or the fob is broken, then you will need a new one. key replacements car can be replaced by the dealership or a locksmith in some instances you can purchase one on the internet. The cost depends on the make and model of your car and whether or not it comes with a transponder.
A simple fob, that emits a signal that opens the doors and begins the engine, can typically be repaired at the dealer or by a locksmith for less than $300. A key that has an embedded transponder chip to prove that the driver is the owner or a more advanced key, can be more costly. This is particularly applicable to late model cars.
The most efficient method to save money on replacement keys and fobs is to always keep a spare with you. If you aren't able to carry a spare along with you, 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 fee later on. You can purchase laser-cut keys online at a lower cost than those sold by dealers. Some online sellers 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.
Try recharge or reset the battery before deciding to replace your broken fob. A dead battery is often the cause of a key fob that won't turn on or can't be programmed. It's also possible the buttons on the fob may get stuck or broken and adjusting them could solve the issue. If these methods don't work, you might have go to a dealer or an automotive locksmith, unless the locksmith has the equipment to program the latest models. Dealers are usually the most expensive, however they also have the deepest understanding of car technology and systems. They may take some time to fix your vehicle and aren't guaranteed to offer the lowest price.
Transponder Keys
Chip keys or transponder keys are a modern key type that comes with an embedded computer chip in the. The chip transmits an encoded signal to the vehicle whenever the key cylinder is inserted. This code is used by the car to start the engine and then open the doors. These are a lot more difficult to steal and are a good way to stop theft.
A professional locksmith for automotive can cut a basic replacement transponder key (chip) for your car at a lower cost than what the dealer will charge. However, it is important to note that you'll require the key to be programmed to match the number in your vehicle's ECM if you are replacing an existing key.
You could also use an ordinary transponder key copied from the original if you already have it. You will not be in a position to start your car because many cars come with immobilizer systems that require a specific key in order to function.
In the past, it was simple to hot-wire a car. This is the process of running two wires, from the engine of the car to a power source in a different location, such as an apartment. The car will start when the starter is switched on. Transponder keys make it more difficult for thieves to steal this since the criminal requires the correct key to transmit the coded signal from the chip inside the key to the car's ignition system.
If your vehicle is equipped with an immobilizer, it won't start if you're using an untransponderable key. It is therefore important to keep a spare transponder in your pocket or purse just in case. If you lose your spare key, you'll need to call your local locksmith for automotive or dealer to duplicate the lost key in order to restart your car. Dealers will charge a higher fee for this service, as they are the only ones to make keys for specific car brands.
Smart Keys
If you drive a newer model car, chances are that your car key has a smart element in it. Often referred to as proximity keys, fobs or remotes, these devices permit drivers to unlock their vehicles and start them without using the physical key. The technology is not new, but it was only accessible in high-end luxury cars at the time.
Basically, smart keys communicate with your vehicle by sending an electronic signal via radio waves. The signals are encrypted and only your vehicle is able to 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 as well as some with built-in GPS technology that can track the location of your vehicle if it's ever stolen.
The key itself can either be a small, nifty fob that can be tucked away inside your pocket, or it can be placed in the handle of your car. If you lose your keys, you will need to contact your auto locksmith or dealer to request replacement. This is because smart keys aren't the regular keys and only a car dealer can replace them.
The cost depends on the make and model of your vehicle and the type of key you have. A standard key that has the lock-and-key mechanism is priced at $10 to $12. Transponder keys on the other, are likely to be more expensive. In general, you'll have to bring your spare smart key and evidence of ownership to the car dealer to get it replaced.
Some experts caution against the use of smart keys, as they are susceptible to hacking by a person who knows what to look for. Smart keys, for example transmit signals at a relatively low frequency compared to other devices. This makes them easier to get at the gas station. This kind of hack may even operate from the distance according to How Stuff Works Electronics.
In any case smart keys are becoming more common and are a lot more practical than older options. They protect cars and provide owners with peace of mind, and help to keep them organized. You should consider investing in one, but keep a spare key handy just in case.