Replacement Keys For Cars
The loss of car keys is a common occurrence for the most seasoned of us. They are prone to disappear from coat pockets or under couch cushions, only to be discovered at the most inconvenient times.
Keys for replacement for cars are more easily found than they used to be. Here are a few alternatives to replace keys: auto locksmiths, dealers and hardware stores.
Keys stolen or lost
Car keys can be lost or stolen in a variety of ways. They can break, get lost, or even be left in a location where they are easily found. Sometimes, they wear out to the point where they're no longer functioning. car key barrel replacement is always a good idea to keep a spare key to save the stress of replacing one.
If you've lost your key, the best thing to do is to contact your local automotive locksmith as soon as possible. You will usually be able to obtain a replacement key for an affordable price than you'd buy from a dealer. Locksmiths can also program the features of your vehicle, such as hands-free boot opening, on the on the spot.
Before you call, make sure you have your car's VIN number that is required to find out the exact year and model of the vehicle in order to create an original key. You may be able to find this on your dashboard or you may need to verify the title of the car or registration papers.
Depending on the type of key you own It could be more expensive to buy a new one from a dealer. Dealerships keep track of this information and will be able to get you an updated key in a short time. You can also get an authentic factory-replacement key that has all the most recent security features.
On the other hand, if you have the standard turn-key type of key, it's cheaper to visit an auto locksmith in your area. The locksmith will make you the replacement key for much less than the dealer and often visit your location.
The only issue is if the keys are transponder-style, which means they have a chip in them that is programmed to work with a particular vehicle. A locksmith will usually be in a position to create the key for you, but not program it, so you'll need to bring it to a dealership to have this done.
Fob Keys
If you have a fob to start and open your car, or if the fob is damaged and you need an alternative. Fob keys can be replaced by a dealership or a locksmith in certain cases you can order one on the internet. The cost is largely contingent on the model and make of your vehicle as well as whether it has a transponder keys or not.
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 more sophisticated key that also has a built-in transponder chip to confirm that the driver is the owner can be more expensive, especially for cars that are late-model.
Keep an extra fob or key with you at all times to save money on replacements. If you can't afford to carry a spare with you and the dealer isn't willing to include two sets of keys as part of the purchase price or add a 3rd set to the order to avoid paying a larger fee later on. You can also purchase aftermarket, laser-cut keys online at a price that is lower than those sold by the dealer. Some online sellers can program your new key fob, but this may void the warranty of the original and be illegal in some states.
Before you decide to replace a damaged fob, you can try charging the battery or resetting it. A dead battery is usually the reason for the fob's keypad that doesn't turn on or cannot be programmed. It's also possible the buttons on the fob may be damaged or stuck and adjusting them can solve the issue. If the steps above don't work, you might have to visit a dealer unless an automotive locksmith has the equipment to program the most recent models. Dealers are generally the most expensive option, however they also have the best knowledge of car systems and technology. They may take a long time to fix your vehicle and they're not guaranteed to offer the lowest price.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as chip keys are a type of key with an embedded computer chip in it. The chip will send an encoded signal to the vehicle when the key cylinder is put in. The code is then used by the car to turn on the engine and then open the doors. They are much more difficult to steal and are a great way to discourage thieves.
A professional locksmith will be able to cut an ordinary transponder chip (key) for your vehicle for less than dealers. However, it is important to remember that you'll need to get the key programmed to match the number in your vehicle's ECM in the event that you replace an existing one.
If you already have an original transponder, you can get a duplicate made. It will not permit you to start your car however, since most cars have immobilizer systems that require the correct key to be used in order for them to work.
In the past, it was easy to wire a hot car. This is the process of running two wires, from the car's engine to a power source in another location, like an apartment. The car then starts when the starter is switched on. However, transponder keys make it harder for thieves to do this as the thief needs the correct key to transmit the coded signal from the chip inside the key to the car's ignition system.
If your car is equipped with an immobilizer, it won't start if you've got no transponder. Therefore, it is important to keep an extra transponder in your pocket or purse just in case. If you have lost your spare key, then you will have contact your local locksmith for automotive or the dealer to clone the lost key in order to restart your car. Dealers will charge a higher fee for this service, since they are the only ones who can make keys for specific car brands.
Smart Keys Keys
You may have a smart key if you drive a more recent model of car. These devices, also referred to as remotes, proximity keys or fobs, permit drivers to unlock and start their vehicles without using a physical car key. The technology has been in use since the 1990s but was used in high-end automobiles of the time.
Basically smart keys communicate with the vehicle via a wireless signal through radio waves. These signals are encrypted, and only your vehicle is able to read them. Depending on the type of key you use it could have the button that turns on your car's locks or ignition, and some also have built-in GPS technology that can track your vehicle's location if ever stolen.
The key itself can either be a small, nifty fob that fits inside your pocket, or it could be a part of the car's handle. If you lose it you'll need to go to your dealer or auto locksmith to assist to replace it. This is because smart keys aren't like your typical key, and only the dealer of your car can replace them.
How much it will cost depends on the model and make of your vehicle and the type of key you have. For instance, a standard key that uses a lock-and-key mechanism is usually priced between $10 to $12 to replace. A transponder key, on the other hand, is likely to be a bit more costly. You'll usually need to bring the spare smart key and evidence of ownership to the dealer in order to get it replaced.
Some experts caution against the use of smart keys because they are susceptible to hacking by someone who knows what to look for. For instance the signals sent by smart keys are low-frequency when compared to other devices, making them easy to spot at a gas station. This kind of hack can even work from an extended distance according to How Stuff Works Electronics.
In any case smart keys are becoming more widespread and much more convenient than the older versions. They help keep cars safe and provide owners with peace of mind, and assist them to stay organized. It's a good idea purchase one, but make sure that you keep a backup key on hand, in case of emergency.