Replacing Lost Car Keys

Lost car keys are a common issue that can be extremely frustrating. The most cost-effective, efficient and fastest method of getting an additional key is to contact an auto locksmith that specializes in auto locksmiths.

They'll usually make an entirely new key for you, without having to provide proof of ownership. This will save you time and money instead of having to visit the dealer.

Basic Keys

It was the case that losing keys to your car key lost what to do wasn't an issue and in many instances it's still not. However, as cars have become more technologically advanced so have their keys, and the replacement process for the lost my car keys no spare car keys is more complex and costly than ever before.

Whether you've lost your keys or someone has stolen them there is usually ways to obtain an alternative one, however the procedure for getting them can differ depending on the kind of car you have and the kind of key you have. If you have a traditional key or fob key for instance the procedure will be different and the cost of replacing lost car keys will vary.

Traditional keys are purely mechanical and work by inserting them into the lock cylinder to turn on the vehicle. These keys can be changed by an automotive locksmith, who will usually be capable of creating keys immediately. They'll need proof of ownership such as the registration or title to be able to do this, though.

Most traditional key sets are also compatible with key fobs, which function as remotes that allow you to operate certain functions inside the vehicle. If you want to replace a standard key with a key fob, you'll need an auto locksmith that is professional and has the equipment necessary to cut the key and then program the code for your specific car model.

In certain instances it is possible to buy replacement keys and [Redirect-302] key fobs online at a fraction of the price you would pay at your dealer. It is essential to do some research and shop around the type of keys you have before making a purchase online. There are many shops that do not have the correct equipment for your car model.

You'll have to visit the dealer to replace a smart key. These keys are more like remote controls and require a button be pressed to start the car. They are costly to replace, but they are typically covered by the warranty of your car.

Transponder Keys

The keys that come with cars are also more advanced. While a few older vehicles utilize regular metal keys, the vast majority of modern cars include a transponder keys. This type of key has microchips that need to be programmed to work. This makes it harder for thieves to duplicate and hot wire.

Transponder keys are also referred to as chip keys and get their name from the embedded electronic chip inside the head of the car key. These keys are now the standard for most modern automobiles and are designed to protect against vehicle theft by making it impossible to start a vehicle without the correct key. The key's immobilizer is activated by the transponder, which transmits a signal when it is used.

You can have your transponder keys copied by a locksmith in the automotive industry. The process is easy but it will cost you more than if you buy a replacement lost car keys key that is not transponder-compatible. This is because the locksmith will have to restore the key's cylinder cuts and then take the mechanism apart before they can create a duplicate.

The good news is that even when you don't have a spare key, your locksmith should be able to make you a non-transponder-only key that will unlock and operate your vehicle. The locksmith can do this by copying information from the transponder of your lost key and putting it on a blank key. The key needs to be programmed so that it responds to the immobilizer of your vehicle. However, at the very least, you won't have to attempt to start it.

While transponder keys do assist in preventing theft of cars, [Redirect-301] it's important to remember that there is no guarantee of security. Even with this technology thieves have found ways to start stolen vehicles. If you drive a high-end car or a family sedan, keep your spare key in a secure place.

Fob Keys

The idea behind them is to do more than just unlock and start the car, modern-day high-tech key fobs can also be used as convenience devices and even theft deterrents. All that functionality comes with a price. Fob keys are more expensive than traditional car keys and are more difficult to replace in the event of being they are lost or damaged.

Fobs transmit radio signals that have encoded codes to a receiver in the vehicle, which performs a function like locking or unlocking the doors and starting the engine and activating the vehicle's security system. Fobs also have a small metal key in them which can be used to open the doors or close the ignition, in case the key fob is unable to operate properly.

While some experts recommend keeping a physical backup key in case of theft however, the majority of the time the best option is to go to a dealer. A dealer is able to create a replacement car key fob that is programmed to your vehicle using the VIN number that is on file, and you'll also have the added reassurance of a mechanical backup.

It is important to know that a locksmith can't replace most modern car keys fobs since they require programming equipment which is beyond the reach of a majority of locksmiths. The cost of replacing a car key fob can be as high as $400, dependent on the manufacturer and model.

Replace the battery first if your key fob isn't working properly. You can find instructions on how to replace the battery on a variety of manufacturers' websites, or in the owner's manual of your car. Hardware stores and big-box retailers also offer key fob batteries.

Another possibility is that your car's key fob stopped working because of a software issue. If this is the case, you might be able to resolve the problem by resetting the car's keys according to the directions included in the owner's manual (or searching online for one).

You can also request an automotive locksmith to perform a remote reprogramming on your fob. This procedure usually takes only less than a minute and will reduce the cost of purchasing a new key fob.

Smart Keys Keys

You can't imagine anything worse than reaching into your bag or pocket to find that you've misplaced your car keys. It can trigger stress, anxiety and even panic.

Fortunately that replacing your car keys isn't as difficult or costly as it was in the past particularly if you own an electronic fob that requires a code to open and start the vehicle. Fobs may also have additional features, such as remote engine starters or trunk openers that help you drive and get into a vehicle.

Smart keys are the most advanced key type available, and they provide lots of convenience for drivers. They trigger a proximity sensor in the car, which allows you to unlock and lock your door with tapping or pressing a button on your phone. You can also remotely start the engine to warm up or cool down the interior before getting in. Smart keys are a standard feature in many modern cars.

However the same technology that makes keys more convenient also increases the chances of losing them. Although there are steps you can take to make sure you don't lose your smart key, such as keeping it in your pocket or having a backup fob, you'll need to contact your dealership or find an auto locksmith who can provide fob replacement in order to obtain a new one.

The good news is that smart keys were designed with some special case scenarios in mind. If you leave your key in the trunk of your car, it will function as long as the battery is charged. If you lose your smart key and have no clue where it's located, most systems will alert the driver if the car is at risk of being locked.

You can quickly and easily find a replacement car key fob by contacting a business like Keyway Lock Service. You can contact your local dealer to order you a new key, but it may cost more than hiring a locksmith for your car.