Replacement Keys For Cars
It is a common occurrence for all. They can disappear from pockets on coats or on couch cushions, only to be discovered at the worst possible time.
Replacement keys for cars are much easier to locate than they used to be. You can get them replaced at auto locksmiths, hardware stores and dealerships.
Keys that were stolen or lost are not found
Car keys can be stolen or lost in various ways. Sometimes they break, but other instances, they are lost or left in a place that they can easily found. Sometimes they even just wear down until they are no longer functioning properly. It is always a good idea to have an extra key in case you need to keep from the stress of replacing one.
If you've lost your key, the best option is to contact your local auto locksmith as soon as you can. It is possible to obtain a replacement key for a lower price than you'd buy from an auto dealer. The locksmith can also program the features of your vehicle for hands-free boot opening on the spot.
Be sure to have your VIN number before you call. This is needed to determine the year and model of the vehicle in order to create an entirely new key. It is located on your dashboard or in the registration or title paperwork of your vehicle.
Depending on the type of key you have it could be more costly to purchase a new one at the dealership. Dealerships will keep track your details to ensure that you receive the replacement key as soon as they can. They are also capable of providing you with an authentic factory replacement key that comes with the latest security features that are built into.
On the other side, if you own the standard turn-key type of key, it's more affordable to use an auto locksmith in your area. Locksmiths can make an alternative key for less than the dealer, and they can often be there on site.
The only exception is when you have transponder keys that are programmed to work for the specific vehicle. Locksmiths are usually able to create keys for you however they are unable to program them. You'll need bring it in to your dealer in order to have it programmed.
Fob Keys
If you have a fob that allows you to open and start your vehicle, or if the fob is damaged it is time to get a new one. Fob keys can be purchased from the locksmiths, dealers or in certain cases you can order one online. The cost is based on the make and model of your vehicle as well as whether or not it comes with a transponder.
A basic fob that sends signals to open the doors and start the engine could be replaced by a locksmith or dealer for less than 300 dollars. A key that has a transponder chip that proves the driver is the owner or a more advanced key, may be more expensive. This is especially applicable to late model cars.
Keep an extra fob or key at all times to save money on replacements. If you don't have the money to carry around an extra set of keys, ask 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 paying higher fees later. You can also find aftermarket, laser-cut keys online at a price that is lower than the ones sold by the dealer. Some sellers on the internet will program the new key fob, however this may 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 can be the reason for the fob not working or isn't programmable. It's also possible the buttons on a fob could be damaged or stuck, and adjusting them may fix the problem. If the steps above don't work, you may have to go to a dealership, unless an automotive locksmith has the equipment to program the latest models. Dealers are usually the most expensive, but also have the most comprehensive understanding of car technology and systems. car key replacement near me can take a while to work on your vehicle and they are not sure of offering the best price.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, or chip keys are a modern type of key that comes with an embedded computer chip in it. The chip will send a coded signal to the car whenever the key is put into the lock cylinder. The code is then used by the car to start the engine and unlock the doors. They are much more difficult to steal and are a great way to discourage thieves.
A professional locksmith for automotive can cut the basic transponder chip (key) for your vehicle for less than an auto dealer. However, 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 one.
If you already have a transponder that is original, you can request a duplicate made. This will not allow you to start your car however, since the majority of automobiles are equipped with immobilizer systems which require a specific key to be used to function.
In the past, it was easy to hot-wire a car. This process involves connecting two wires from the car's ignition to a power source at another location, for instance an apartment building. The car will start when the starter is switched on. Transponder keys make it more difficult for thieves to do this since the criminal requires the correct key in order to transmit the coded signal from the chip in the key to the car's ignition system.
This makes the key more difficult to steal and if your vehicle is equipped with an immobilizer that is not working, the car will not start with a non-transponder key. It is therefore essential to keep an extra transponder in your pocket or purse just in case. If you lose your spare key then you'll have contact your local locksmith or the dealer to clone the lost key in order to start your car again. Dealers will charge you more for this service, as they are the only ones who can create keys for certain vehicle brands.
Smart Keys Keys
There is a chance that you have an intelligent key when you drive a newer model of car. These devices, often referred to as remotes, proximity keys or fobs, permit drivers to unlock and start their vehicles without the need for the physical keys of their car. The technology has been in use since the 1990s, but was a feature that was mostly found in automobiles at the time.
Basically, vehicle key replacement communicate with your vehicle via an electronic signal via radio waves. These signals are encrypted, and only your vehicle can read them. Depending on the type of key you use it could have the button that turns on your car's locks or ignition as well as some with built-in GPS technology that tracks your vehicle location if it's ever stolen.
The key can be a small fob or embedded into the handle. If you lose your key, you will need to contact your auto locksmith or dealer to request replacement. Smart keys are different from traditional keys and can only be replaced by a dealer.
The cost will depend on the model and make of your car, as well as the kind of key you have. For example, a basic key that uses a lock-and-key mechanism is usually priced between $10-$12 to replace. Transponder keys, on other, are likely to be more expensive. In general, you'll have to bring your spare smart key along with proof of ownership to the dealer of your vehicle to have it replaced.
Some experts warn that smart keys could be hacked if someone knows what they're trying to find. For example the signals sent by smart keys are relatively low-frequency in comparison to other devices, making them easy to spot at the gas pump. According to How Stuff Works Electronics, this kind of hack is possible from the distance.
In all likelihood, smart keys are becoming more common and are a lot more practical than traditional keys. They protect cars, provide peace of mind and assist owners keep their keys organized. It's a good idea to invest in one of these however, make sure you have a spare key in your car, in case you need it.