Replacement Keys For Cars
The loss of car keys is a common occurrence for the best of us. They tend to disappear from pockets on coats or underneath couch cushions, only to be discovered at the most inconvenient moment.
Luckily keys to replace for cars aren't as difficult to find as they once were. Here are some of your options for replacing them: auto locksmiths, dealers and hardware stores.
Keys that have been stolen or lost are
Car keys can get lost or stolen in various ways. Sometimes they break, but other instances, they are lost or get put in a spot that they can easily found. Sometimes, they wear down to the point where they no longer function properly. Whatever the case it's always an excellent idea to have a spare car key order to save the expense and hassle of getting one replaced.
Contact your local locksmith right away if you have lost your keys. You will usually be able to get a replacement key at an affordable price than you'd pay at the dealer. The locksmith can also program the features of your car like hands-free boot opening, right on the on the spot.
Be sure to have your VIN number before you call. This is needed to determine the exact year and model of the car in order to make an entirely new key. It is located on your dashboard or in the registration or title papers of your vehicle.
Depending on the type of key you own it could be more costly to purchase a new one at the dealership. Dealerships keep track of this information so they will be in a position to provide you with an updated key in a short time. You can also obtain an authentic factory-replacement key that has all the most recent security features.
If you have a standard key that's a turnkey, it's cheaper to visit an auto locksmith in your area. The locksmith will make 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 able to create keys for you, but they cannot program them. You'll need bring it in to your dealer to have it programmed.
auto replacement key
If you have a fob to open and start your car, or if the fob is broken and you need an alternative. Fob keys are available from the locksmith, dealerships and in some cases, you can buy one online. The cost will depend on the model and brand of your car and whether or not it is equipped with a transponder.
A simple fob, that emits a signal to open the doors and begins the engine, is usually be replaced by the dealer or by locksmiths for less than $300. A key with an embedded transponder chip to prove that the owner of the key or a more advanced key, may be more costly. This is especially applicable to late model cars.
The best way to save on fobs and keys that need replacement is to always have a spare with you. If you don't have enough money 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 to the order. This will prevent you from having to pay higher costs later. You can purchase laser-cut keys online at a lower price than those sold by dealers. Some online sellers will program your new key fob, however this could void the warranty of the original key and could be illegal in some states.
Before you decide to replace a broken fob, you can try charging the battery or resetting it. A dead battery is often the cause of a key fob that won't turn on or cannot be programmed. You can also change the buttons of the fob if they're stuck or broken. If none of these solutions work, a dealer may be the only option unless you can find an automotive locksmith that has the programming equipment to work on the latest models. Dealers are usually the most expensive, however they also have the most in-depth understanding of car technology and systems. However, they can take an extended time to fix your vehicle and aren't guaranteed to offer the best prices.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as chip keys are a type of key that has an embedded computer chip in it. The chip sends a coded signal to the car when the key is put into the lock cylinder. This code is then used by the car to start the engine and open the doors. They are much more difficult to steal, and a great way to discourage thieves.
A professional automotive locksmith will be able to cut the basic transponder chip (key) for your vehicle at a cheaper cost than an auto dealer. 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 in the event that you replace an existing key.
If you already have an original transponder you can request a duplicate made. You will not be in a position to start your car since many vehicles have immobilizer systems that require a specific key in order to function.
In the past, it was easy to hot-wire a car. It involves running two wires from the engine of the vehicle to a power supply in a different location, such as an apartment. The car starts when the starter is turned on. Transponder keys make this harder for thieves, as they require the correct keys to transmit the coded signals from the chip in the key to the ignition system of the car.
If your car is equipped with an immobilizer, it will not start if you're using an untransponderable key. This is why it is essential to always keep an extra transponder keys in your pocket or purse, just in case. You'll need to call your local automotive locksmith to copy the key if you lose it. Dealers will charge a higher fee for this service since they are the only ones 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 intelligent element inside it. Sometimes referred to as proximity keys, fobs or remotes they permit drivers to unlock their cars and start them without requiring the physical key. The technology is not new however it was only available in top-of-the-line luxury cars at the time.
Smart keys communicate with vehicles via an radio wireless wave. The signals are encrypted and only your vehicle can read them. Some keys include an option to turn on the ignition of your vehicle or lock. Some keys also come with GPS technology that determines the location of your vehicle if stolen.
The key itself can either be a small, nifty fob that you can carry inside your pocket, or it can be embedded in the handle of your car. Either way, if you lose your key you'll need to go to your dealer or auto locksmith to assist to replace it. Smart keys differ from traditional keys and can only be replaced by the dealer.
How much will depend on the model and make of your vehicle and the type of key you have. For instance, a basic key that uses a lock-and-key mechanism is typically priced between $10-$12 to replace. 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 that smart keys can be hacked if someone is aware of what they are looking for. For example the signals transmitted by smart keys are low-frequency in comparison to other devices, which makes them easy for someone to detect at a gas pump. This kind of hack may even work from an extended distance according to How Stuff Works Electronics.
Smart keys are becoming more popular and practical. They protect cars and offer peace of mind and help owners keep their keys organized. You should consider investing in one however, keep a spare key in your car just in case.