Replacement Keys For Cars
Losing car keys happens to the very best of us. They tend to disappear from pockets on coats or on couch cushions, only to be discovered at the worst possible moment.
Fortunately, replacement keys for cars aren't as difficult to find as they once were. Here are a few options to replace them: auto locksmiths, dealerships and hardware stores.
Keys stolen or lost
Car keys can be lost or stolen in a variety of ways. Sometimes they break, and other times they're lost or are left in a place where they can be easily located. Sometimes they simply wear out to the point where they're no longer functioning. Whatever the case, it is always recommended to keep a spare car key order to save the expense and hassle of getting one replaced.
Contact your local locksmith right away if your keys. You will usually be able to obtain a replacement key for a lower price than you'd buy from an auto dealer. Locksmiths can also program the features of your car for hands-free boot opening on the moment of the call.
Be sure to bring your VIN number before you call. This is required to determine the exact year and model of the vehicle in order to create an entirely new key. You may be able to find this on your dashboard, or you may need to check the vehicle's title or registration paperwork.
Depending on the kind of key you have it could be more costly to purchase a new one at the dealership. Dealerships will keep track of your details to ensure you get an replacement key as fast as possible. You can also obtain an authentic factory-replacement key that has all the most recent security features.
On the other the other hand, if you've got the standard turn-key type of key, it will be cheaper to go to an auto locksmith in your area. The locksmith will offer you the replacement key for a lot less than the dealer and can frequently come to your place.
The only problem with this is if the keys are transponder style, which means they contain a chip inside the key that is programmed to work with a specific vehicle. Locksmiths can usually make keys for you, however they are unable to program them. You will need bring it to your dealer to get it programmed.
Fob Keys
If your car uses fob keys to open and start the vehicle, you need a replacement for that in the event that it malfunctions or gets lost. Fob keys can be replaced by the dealership or a locksmith in some instances, you can even order one online. The cost depends on the model and make of your vehicle and whether or not it comes with a transponder.
A simple key that emits signals to open the doors and start the engine can be replaced by a locksmith or dealer for less than $300. A key with a transponder chip that verifies the owner of the key or a more sophisticated key, may be more expensive. This is particularly true for late model cars.
Keep an extra key or fob with you always in case you need to save money on replacements. If you can't afford to carry a spare with you, ask the dealer to include two sets of keys in the purchase price or add a 3rd set to the order to avoid paying a higher fee later on. There are laser-cut aftermarket keys online for a much lower price than those sold by dealers. Some sellers on the internet will program the new key fob, however this may void the warranty on the original and be illegal in certain states.
Before you decide to replace a damaged fob, try charging the battery or resetting it. A dead battery can be the cause of the fob not working or isn't programmed. It's also possible that the buttons on a fob could be damaged or stuck and adjusting them could fix the problem. If none of these methods work, a dealer may be your only option, unless you locate an automotive locksmith who has the programming equipment to work on the latest models. Typically, dealers are the most expensive option, but they also have the best knowledge of the car's systems and technology. However, they may take an extended time to work on your vehicle and aren't able to offer the best prices.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, or chip keys are a modern type of key that comes with a computer chip embedded in it. The chip transmits an encoded signal to the vehicle whenever the key cylinder is put in. The car will use this code to start the engine or open the doors. They are much more difficult to steal, and a great way to discourage thieves.
A professional locksmith can cut the basic transponder chip (key) for your vehicle at a cheaper cost than a dealer. It is important to keep in mind that you will still need to get the key programmed to match the code in your vehicle's ECM when replacing an existing key.
If you already have an original transponder, you can request a duplicate made. It will not be capable of starting your vehicle because many cars come with immobilizer systems that require a specific key in order to function.
In the past, it was very easy 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 will start when the starter is switched on. Transponder keys make it difficult for thieves to steal this, since they require the correct key in order to transmit the coded signal from the chip inside the key to the ignition system.
If your vehicle has an immobilizer, it will not start if you're using a non-transponder. This is why it's important to always have a spare transponder key in your pocket or purse, just in case. If remote car key replacement cost have lost your spare key, then you'll have contact your local automotive locksmith or dealer to duplicate the key you lost to start your car again. Dealers will charge you more for this service since they are the only ones to make keys for specific car brands.
Smart Keys
If you drive a newer model vehicle, it is likely that your car key has an electronic component that is smart. These devices, which are often referred to as proximity keys, remotes, or fobs, enable users to open and start their cars without the need for the physical keys of their car. The technology has been in use since the 1990s but was found mainly in high-end automobiles at the time.
Smart keys communicate with vehicles via an radio wave wireless signal. These signals are encrypted and only your vehicle is able to read the signals. Some keys include a button to activate your car's ignition or locks. Some keys also come with GPS technology that tracks your vehicle's location if stolen.
The key can be a small key fob or placed inside the handle. In either case, if you lose it you'll need to go to your dealer or auto locksmith to assist in replacing it. This is because smart keys aren't the standard traditional key, and only the dealer of your car can replace them.
The cost is contingent on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the kind of key you have. A standard key that has an lock-and-key mechanism will cost between $10 and $12. A transponder key, on the contrary, could be a bit more expensive. You'll usually need to bring your spare smart key and evidence of ownership to the dealer to replace it.
Some experts warn against the convenience of smart keys because they can be hacked by a person who knows what to look for. Smart keys, for instance transmit signals at relatively low frequency compared to other devices. This makes them easy to obtain from a gas station. This kind of hack could even operate from the distance, according to How Stuff Works Electronics.
Smart keys are becoming increasingly popular and convenient. They protect cars, provide peace of mind and assist owners to stay organized. It's a good idea purchase one but ensure that you have a backup key on hand, just in case.