15 Things You Don't Know About Replacement Keys For Car

Replacement Keys For Cars

It happens to everyone. They can disappear from pockets on coats or sofa cushions only to be discovered at the most inconvenient time.

Car keys replacements are much easier to locate than they were in the past. You can replace them at auto locksmiths, hardware shops, and dealerships.

Lost or Stolen Keys

Car keys can get lost or stolen in a variety of ways. Sometimes they break, and other times they're lost or get placed in a location where they can be easily found. Sometimes, they wear out to the point that they can no longer function. It's always a good idea to have an extra key in case you need to keep from the burden of replacing one.

Contact your local locksmith immediately if you lose your keys. You can usually find a replacement key at an affordable price than you would pay at a dealer. The locksmith car key replacement cost can also program the features of your vehicle like hands-free boot opening, right on the on the spot.

Be sure to have your VIN number before you call. This is required to determine the exact year and model of the vehicle in order to create a new key. It is located on your dashboard or on the registration or title papers of your vehicle.

The cost of replacing your key at the dealership may be higher based on the type. Dealerships will keep track of your details to ensure you get a replacement key as quickly as they can. They will also be in a position to offer you an authentic key from the factory that is fitted with the latest security features in.

If you have a standard lock that's a turnkey it's more affordable to visit a local auto locksmith. The locksmith will offer you the replacement key for much less than the dealer and can often come to your location.

The only issue is if the keys are a transponder style, which means they have a chip within the key 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 have to take it to the dealership to get this done.

Fob Keys

If your car uses a fob key to open and start the car you will require an alternative if it malfunctions or is lost. Fob keys can be replaced by a dealership, a locksmith or, in some instances you can order one on the internet. The cost varies widely depending on the make and model of your vehicle as well as whether it has a transponder key or not.

A simple fob, that emits a signal that opens the doors and begins the engine, is usually be replaced at an auto dealer or a locksmith for less than $300. A more sophisticated key that also has a built-in transponder chip to verify that the driver is indeed the owner can be more expensive, particularly for late-model cars.

The most efficient method to save on fobs and keys that need replacement is to always keep an extra set on hand. If you can't afford to carry a spare around with you then ask the dealer to include two sets of keys in the purchase price or add a third set to to avoid paying a larger fee later on. There are also laser-cut keys that are made by the aftermarket at a price that is lower than those offered by the dealer. Some online sellers can program your new key fob, but this may invalidate the warranty on the original key and could be illegal in certain states.

Before you decide to replace a damaged fob, try charging the battery or resetting it. A dead battery is often the culprit for the fob's keypad that doesn't turn on or cannot be programmed. It's also possible that the buttons on a fob could be damaged or stuck, and adjusting them may fix the problem. If none of these methods work, a dealership may be your only option, unless you can find a locksmith for your vehicle that has the tools to work with the latest models. Dealers are usually the most expensive, however they also have the most in-depth knowledge of car technology and systems. However, they may take a long time to work on your vehicle and aren't guaranteed to have the lowest prices.

Transponder Keys

Chip keys or transponder keys are a more modern key type that comes with embedded computer chips on it. The chip transmits an encoded signal to the vehicle whenever the key cylinder is inserted. The car uses this code to start the engine or unlock the doors. They are much more difficult to steal, and a great way to discourage thieves.

A professional automotive locksmith can cut an inexpensive replacement transponder (chip) for your car at a lower cost than what the dealer will charge. It is important to remember that if you're replacing an old key, you'll still need to program it to match the ECM code of your car.

You can also have a basic transponder key cloned from the original if already have it. This will not allow you to start your car, however, since most cars have immobilizer systems which require a specific key to be used in order for them to work.

In the past, it was very easy to hot wire an automobile. This is the process of running two wires from the car's engine to a power supply in another location such as an apartment. The car will start when the starter is turned on. However, transponder keys make it difficult for thieves to steal this, since they require the correct key in order to transmit the coded signal from the chip inside the key to the ignition system.

This makes the key difficult to steal and if your vehicle has an immobilizer system it won't start when you use the key that is not transponder-compatible. This is why it is important to keep an extra transponder keys in your pocket or purse, just in case. If you lose your spare key you'll need to call your local automotive locksmith or dealer to duplicate the key that was lost in order to start your car again. Dealers will charge more for this service since they have exclusive rights to manufacture keys for certain car brands.

Smart Keys Keys

If you have a newer model car, chances are that your key has an intelligent element inside it. Sometimes referred to as proximity keys, fobs or remotes These devices let drivers unlock their cars and begin using them without using an actual key. The technology has been in use since the 1990s but was that was mostly found in automobiles at the time.

Smart keys communicate with vehicles by sending the radio wireless signal. These signals are encrypted and only your vehicle is able to read the signals. Certain keys come with buttons that allow you to turn on the ignition of your vehicle or lock. Some keys also come with GPS technology that can track your vehicle's location in the event of it being stolen.

The key itself could be a small fob that fits in your pocket, or it can be placed in the handle of your car. If you lose your keys, you'll need to contact your dealer or auto locksmith to request replacement. Smart keys differ from traditional keys and can only be replaced by the dealer.

How much is contingent on the make and model of your vehicle and the kind of key you have. A standard key with an lock-and-key mechanism will cost between $10 and $12. A transponder key on the other hand, will likely be a bit more costly. In general, you'll have to bring your spare smart key along with proof of ownership to the dealership to get it replaced.

Some experts warn against the security of smart keys due to the fact that they can be hacked by someone who knows what to look for. For instance the signals sent by smart keys are low-frequency compared to those of other devices, making them easy for someone to spot at the gas pump. This kind of hack may even be used from an extended distance, according to How Stuff Works Electronics.

In any case smart keys are becoming more common and a lot more convenient than traditional keys. They secure cars and offer peace of mind and assist owners keep their keys organized. It's a good idea purchase one however, make sure you have a backup key on hand, in case you need it.