Replacement Keys For Cars

It is a common occurrence for all. They tend to disappear from pockets in coats or under sofa cushions only to be discovered at the most inconvenient moment.

Fortunately keys for replacement for cars aren't as hard to get as they once were. You can replace them at auto locksmiths, hardware shops and dealerships.

Keys stolen or lost

Car keys can get lost or stolen in a variety of ways. Sometimes they break, other times they are misplaced or put in a spot that they can easily found. Sometimes, they wear down until they cease to function. Whatever the case it is recommended to keep an extra car key in order to avoid the cost of replacement car keys and hassle of having one replaced.

Contact your local locksmith immediately if you lose your keys. You will usually be able to find a replacement key at an affordable price than you'd buy from the dealer. The locksmith can also program the features of your car, such as hands-free boot opening, right on the spot.

Before calling, make sure to get your car's VIN number that is required to determine the exact year and model of the vehicle in order to create an original key. It is located on your dashboard or on the registration or title paperwork of your vehicle.

The cost of replacing your key at the dealership may be more expensive depending on the type. Dealerships will track your details to ensure that you get the replacement key as soon as possible. You can also purchase an authentic factory-replacement key that has all the latest security features.

If you have a standard key that's a turnkey it is cheaper to go to a local auto locksmith. The locksmith can provide you with an exchange for your key at a lower cost than the dealer and often come to your location.

The only issue is if the keys are transponder style that means they have a chip within them that is programmed to work with a specific vehicle. Locksmiths are usually able to make keys for you, but not program it, so you'll need to bring it to a dealer to have it programmed.

Fob Keys

If your vehicle 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 are available at the locksmith, dealerships and in some cases, you can buy one on the internet. The cost of replacement varies greatly based on the make and model of your vehicle and if it has a transponder key or not.

A simple fob that emits a signal to open the doors and start the engine could be replaced by a dealer or locksmith for less than $300. A key with a transponder chip that proves the owner of the key, or a more advanced key, could be more expensive. This is especially applicable to late model cars.

Keep a spare fob or key at all times to avoid money on replacements. If you don't have the funds to carry around a spare and need to 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. There are also aftermarket, Car Key Programming laser-cut keys online at a lower price than those offered by the dealer. Some online sellers can program the new fob for you, but this could void any warranty on the original key, and could be illegal in some states.

Try recharging or resetting the battery before you decide to replace your broken fob. A dead battery may be the reason for the fob not working or cannot be programmed. It's also possible the buttons on the fob may get stuck or broken, and adjusting them may fix the problem. If the steps above don't work, you might need go to a dealer, unless an automotive locksmith has the equipment to program the most current models. Dealers are generally the most expensive option, however they also have the greatest knowledge of the technology and systems used in cars. However, they may take an extended time to work on your car and aren't guaranteed to have the lowest prices.

Transponder Keys

Chip keys, also known as transponder keys are a more contemporary key type that has an embedded computer chip in it. The chip sends an encoded signal to the vehicle whenever the key cylinder is put in. The car uses this code to start the engine or open the doors. These are much harder to steal, and is a great way to deter thieves.

A professional locksmith can cut the basic transponder chip (key) for your vehicle for less than an auto dealer. It is crucial to keep in mind that if you're replacing an old key, you'll require it to be programmed to match the ECM code of your vehicle.

You could also use a basic transponder key cloned from the original one if you already have it. It will not be able to start your vehicle, as many cars come with immobilizer systems that require a specific key in order to function.

In the past, it was simple to hot wire an automobile. It involves connecting two wires from the car's engine to a power supply in a different location, such as an apartment. The car will start when the starter is switched on. Transponder keys make this harder for thieves since they require the correct keys to transmit the encoded signals from the chip on key to the ignition system of the car.

This makes the key more difficult to steal and if your vehicle has an immobilizer, it will not start with the key that is not transponder-compatible. This is why it is important to keep a spare transponder key in your pocket or purse in case of. You'll need to contact your local automotive locksmith to copy the key if you lose it. Dealers may also charge a premium for this service because they usually have exclusive right to create keys for specific models of cars.

Smart Keys Keys

If you have a newer model vehicle, it is likely that your key is equipped with a smart element in it. Sometimes called proximity keys, fobs or remotes they let drivers unlock their vehicles and start them without the need for an actual key. The technology isn't new however it was only available in top-of-the-line luxury vehicles at the time.

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

The key itself could be a small keychain that you can carry in your pocket, or it can be embedded in the handle of your car. If you lose your key, you will need to contact your dealer or auto locksmith to request replacement. Smart keys are different from traditional keys and can only be replaced by a dealer.

The cost is contingent on the make and model of your vehicle and the kind of key you have. A standard key with a lock-and -key mechanism costs $10 to $12. A transponder key on the other hand, is likely to be a bit more costly. You'll usually need to bring your spare smart key and evidence of ownership to the dealer in order to get it replaced.

Some experts warn that smart keys can be hacked if someone knows what they are looking for. Smart keys, car key programming for example transmit signals at a very low frequency when compared to other devices. This makes them easy to get at an oil station. This kind of hack could even work from an extended distance, according to How Stuff Works Electronics.

Smart keys are becoming increasingly popular and are more convenient. They protect cars and provide peace of mind and assist owners keep their keys organized. You should invest in one however, keep a spare key in your car just in case.