Replacement Keys For Cars

Car keys are lost to the most seasoned of us. They are likely to disappear from coat pockets or sofa cushions only to be discovered at the worst possible moment.

Replacement keys for cars are more easily found than they were in the past. Here are a few options to replace keys: auto locksmiths, dealers and hardware stores.

Keys that were stolen or lost are not found

Car keys can be stolen or lost in various ways. They can break, get misplaced, or be left in a location where they can be easily found. Sometimes they even just get worn down to the point that they no longer function properly. 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 and you lose it, the best option is to contact your local automotive locksmith as quickly as you can. It is possible 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 vehicle like hands-free boot opening, right on the spot.

Before you call, make sure you have your VIN number for your vehicle it is needed to find out the exact model and year of the vehicle to make a new key. 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 higher based on the type. Dealerships keep track of this information so they will be in a position to provide you with a new key quickly. You can also get authentic factory replacement keys that have all of the latest security features.

On the other side, if you own a standard turn-key type of key, it will be more affordable to use a local auto locksmith. The locksmith can provide you with an exchange for your key for much less 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 are usually able to make keys for you, but not program it, so you will need to bring it to a dealership to have this done.

Fob Keys

If your car is equipped with fob keys to open and start the car and start it, you'll need a replacement for that when it fails or is lost. Fob keys can be replaced by the dealership, a locksmith or, in certain cases you can purchase one on the internet. The cost varies widely depending on the model and make of your vehicle and if it comes with a transponder key or not.

A basic fob that sends signals to open the doors and start the engine can be replaced by a dealer or locksmith for less than 300 dollars. 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 most efficient method to save money on fobs and keys that need replacement is to always keep an extra set on hand. If you can't afford to carry a spare with you then ask the dealer to include two sets of keys as part of the purchase price or add a 3rd set to the order to avoid paying a higher cost later. There are laser-cut aftermarket keys online at a lower cost than those sold by dealers. Some sellers online can program your new fob for you, but that could invalidate any warranty on the original key, and could be illegal in some states.

Try recharging or resetting the battery before you decide to replace the broken fob. A dead battery is usually the reason for keys that don't turn on or cannot be programmed. You can also adjust the buttons on the fob if they're stuck or broken. If the steps above don't work, you might have to go to a dealership, unless an automotive locksmith has the required equipment to program the latest models. Typically, dealers are the most expensive option, but they also have the greatest knowledge of car systems and technology. They may take some time to fix your vehicle and they are not sure of offering the best cost.

Transponder Keys

Chip keys or transponder keys are a more contemporary key type that has an embedded computer chip in it. The chip will send an encoded signal to the vehicle whenever the key cylinder is inserted. This code is used by the car to turn on the engine and unlock the doors. These are much more difficult to steal and are a great way to stop theft.

A professional automotive locksmith can cut an inexpensive replacement transponder (chip) for your car at a price that is lower than the dealer can charge. It is important to remember that when replacing an old key, you'll need to have it programmed to match the ECM code of your car.

If you already have an original transponder, you can have a copy made. It will not be in a position to start your car since many vehicles have immobilizer systems that require a specific key to function.

In the past, it was easy to hot wire the car key replacement. This is the process of running two wires from the car's engine to a power supply in another location, like an apartment. The car then starts when the starter is switched on. However, transponder keys make it more difficult for thieves to steal this, since they require the correct key to transmit the coded signal from the chip on the key to the ignition system.

This makes the key difficult to steal and, if your vehicle has an immobilizer system, it will not start if you use an untransponderable key. This is why it's important to keep an extra transponder key in your pocket or purse in case. If you have lost your spare key, then you'll have contact your local locksmith or dealer to duplicate the key that was lost in order to restart your car. Dealers will charge more for this service, as they are the only ones who can manufacture keys for certain car brands.

Smart Keys Keys

You might have smart keys in case you own an older model of vehicle. Often referred to as proximity keys, fobs or remotes, these devices permit drivers to unlock their cars and start them without requiring a physical key. The technology has been in use since the 1990s but was that was mostly found in luxury vehicles at that time.

Basically, smart keys communicate with vehicle by transmitting wireless signals via radio waves. The signals are encrypted, and only your car is able to read the signals. Some keys have buttons that allow you to turn on the ignition of your vehicle or lock. Other keys may also have GPS technology that tracks your vehicle's location if stolen.

The key can be a small fob, or placed inside the handle. In either case, if you lose it, you'll likely need to go to your dealer or auto locksmith for assistance with replacement. Smart keys are different from traditional keys and can only be replaced by a dealer.

The price will depend on the make and type of car you have and also the type of key. A standard key with the lock-and-key mechanism is priced at $10 to $12. A transponder key, on the other hand, will likely be a bit more costly. It is generally necessary to bring your spare smart key and proof of ownership to your car dealer in order to replace it.

Some experts warn against the convenience of smart keys due to the fact that they can be hacked by someone who knows what to look for. For instance the signals transmitted by smart keys are relatively low-frequency compared to those of other devices, which makes them easy for fob someone to spot at the gas pump. According to How Stuff Works Electronics, this kind of hack is even possible from the distance.

Smart keys are becoming increasingly popular and more convenient. They protect cars, give owners peace of mind, and help to keep them organized. You should consider investing in one however, keep a spare key on hand just in case.