Replacement Keys For Cars

Car keys are lost to the very best of us. They tend to disappear from pockets on coats or underneath sofa cushions only to be found at the most inconvenient moment.

Fortunately keys to replace for cars aren't as hard to find as they once were. Here are some of your options for replacing keys: auto locksmiths, dealers and hardware stores.

Lost or Stolen Keys

Car keys can get stolen or lost in various ways. They may break, become misplaced, or be left in a location that is easy to locate. Sometimes, they wear out to the point where they can no longer function. Whatever the case it is recommended to keep a spare car key order to avoid the cost and hassle of having one replaced.

If you lose your key the best thing to do is to contact your local auto locksmith as soon as you can. You can usually obtain a replacement key for an affordable price than you'd pay a dealer. The locksmith may also be able to program your car's features like hands-free boot release, right on the moment of the call.

Before you call, be sure to get your car's VIN number, which is necessary to find out the exact model and year of the vehicle to make an original key. It is located on your dashboard or in the registration or title paperwork of your vehicle.

The cost of replacing your key at the dealership may be more expensive depending on the kind of key. Dealerships keep the track of this information, and are capable of obtaining the key you need quickly. You can also purchase authentic factory replacement keys that have all the latest security features.

If you have a standard key that is a turn-key it's more affordable to visit a local auto locksmith. Locksmiths can make an alternative key for cheaper than the dealer and they are often able to visit you on the spot.

The only issue is if your keys are transponder-style that means they have a chip in them that is programmed to work with the particular vehicle. Locksmiths are usually able to create keys for you however, they are not able to program them. You'll need bring it in to your dealer to get it programmed.

Fob Keys

If your car is equipped with fob keys to open and start the vehicle and start it, you'll need an alternative when it fails or is lost. Fob keys can be replaced by a dealership, a locksmith or, in certain cases you can purchase one online. The cost is largely contingent on the make and model of your vehicle and if it has a transponder key or not.

A basic fob that sends a signal to open the doors and start the engine can be replaced by a locksmith or dealer for less than 300 dollars. A key that has a transponder chip that proves the owner of the key or a more sophisticated key, can be more costly. This is especially true for late model cars.

The best method to save money on fobs and keys that need replacement is to always have an extra set with you. If you don't have the funds to carry around an extra set of keys and need to ask the dealer to add two sets of keys to the purchase price or to add a third set to the order. This will prevent you from paying more fees later. There are also aftermarket, laser-cut keys online for a much lower cost than those offered by the dealer. Some online sellers can program your new key for you, but that could invalidate any warranty that was provided with 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 culprit for keys that don't turn on or cannot be programmed. You can also alter the buttons of the fob in case they're stuck or broken. If these methods don't work, you might have go to a dealer or an automotive locksmith, unless the locksmith has the equipment for programming the most recent models. Dealers are generally the most expensive option, but they also have the most extensive knowledge of the technology and systems used in cars. However, they can take a long time to repair your vehicle and aren't guaranteed to offer the best prices.

Transponder Keys

Chip keys or transponder keys are a more contemporary key type that has an embedded computer chip on it. The chip sends an encoded signal to the vehicle whenever the key cylinder is put in. The car will use this code to start the engine and open the doors. They are much more difficult to steal and are a great way to discourage thieves.

A professional automotive locksmith will be able to cut an ordinary transponder chip (key) for your vehicle at a cheaper cost than an auto dealer. However, it is important to note that you'll need to get the key programmed to match the code in your vehicle's ECM if you are replacing an existing one.

If you already have an original transponder, you can have a copy made. It will not be capable of starting your vehicle since many vehicles have immobilizer systems that require a specific key in order to function.

In the past, it was very simple to hot wire the car. This involves connecting two wires from the car's ignition to a power source at another location, for fob instance an apartment building. The car then starts when the starter is switched on. Transponder keys make it 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 vehicle.

If your vehicle has an immobilizer, it won't start if you're using an untransponderable key. It is therefore important to keep an extra transponder in your pocket or purse just in the event of. You'll need to contact your local locksmith shop to copy the key if you lose it. Dealers will charge you more for this service, as they are the only ones to create keys for certain vehicle brands.

Smart Keys

You may have an intelligent key when you drive a newer model of vehicle. These devices, also referred to as proximity keys, remotes, or fobs, permit drivers to open and start their cars without using an actual car key. This technology is not new however, it was only available in high-end luxury vehicles at the time.

Basically, smart keys communicate with your vehicle by sending an electronic signal via radio waves. These signals are encrypted and only your vehicle can read them. Depending on your key that you have, it may come with a button that activates the ignition or locks of your car and some even have built-in GPS technology that tracks your vehicle's location if ever stolen.

The key itself could be a small fob that can be tucked away inside your pocket, or it can be embedded in the car's handle. In either case, if you lose it you'll have to go to your dealer or auto locksmith for help in replacing it. This is because smart keys aren't the typical key, and only the dealership can replace them.

The cost will vary based on the model and make of car key cover replacement you have, as well as your key. A standard key with a lock-and -key mechanism costs between $10 and $12. Transponder keys, on other, are likely to be more expensive. It is generally necessary to bring the spare smart key along with proof of ownership to your car dealer in order to replace it.

Some experts warn that smart keys could be hacked by someone who knows what they are seeking. Smart keys, for example transmit signals at a lower frequency than other devices. This makes them easy to obtain at the gas station. According to How Stuff Works Electronics, this type of hacking is possible from a distance.

In any case smart keys are becoming more popular and are a lot more practical than the older versions. They secure cars, provide peace of mind and assist owners to stay organized. It's a good idea invest in one of these, but make sure that you have a spare key on hand, just in case.