Ten Myths About Replacement Keys For Car That Aren't Always True
Replacement Keys For Cars
It is a common occurrence for everyone. They can disappear from coat pockets or sofa cushions only to be discovered at the most inconvenient time.
Luckily keys for replacement for cars aren't as difficult to find as they once were. You can get them replaced at auto locksmiths, hardware stores and dealerships.
Lost or Stolen keys
Car keys can be stolen or lost in a variety of ways. Sometimes they break, but other times they are misplaced or get put in a spot that they can easily located. Sometimes, they wear out to the point that 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 burden of replacing one.
Contact your local automotive locksmith right away if you have lost your keys. They are likely to make you new keys for less than it costs at the dealership. Locksmiths can also program features of your car, such as hands-free boot opening, on the spot.
Before you call, make sure you have your car's VIN number that is required to find the exact year and model of the vehicle to create new keys. You might be able to see this on your dashboard, or you may need to verify the title of the car or registration paperwork.
Depending on the kind of key you have, it might be more costly to purchase a new one at the dealership. Dealerships will track your details to ensure that you get the replacement key as soon as they can. They are also able to provide you with an authentic factory replacement key that comes with the most recent security features built in.
On the other the other hand, if you've got an ordinary turn-key key, it is cheaper to visit a local auto locksmith. The locksmith can create an replacement key for cheaper than the dealer and they are often able to visit you on the spot.
The only exception is if you have transponder keys, which are programmed to work for a specific vehicle. Locksmiths can usually create keys for you however they are unable to program them. You'll have to bring it to your dealer to get it programmed.
Fob Keys
If your vehicle uses fob keys to open and start the vehicle and start it, you'll need an alternative when it fails or is lost. Fob keys are available at the locksmith, dealerships or in certain instances, you can purchase one on the internet. The cost varies widely depending on the make and model of your car and whether it comes with a transponder key or not.
A simple fob, which emits a signal that opens the doors and starts the engine, can usually be repaired at an auto dealer or a locksmith for less than $300. A more advanced key with a built-in transponder chip to verify the driver is the owner can be more costly, especially for vehicles of the latest model.
Keep a spare fob or key with you at all times to avoid money on replacements. If you can't afford to carry a spare along with you, ask the dealer to include two sets of keys as part of the purchase price or add a 3rd set to to avoid paying a higher cost later. You can purchase laser-cut keys on the internet for a cheaper price than those sold by dealers. Some sellers on the internet will program your new key fob, however this may invalidate the warranty of the original key and could be illegal in some states.
Before key replacement decide to replace a damaged fob, 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. You can also change the buttons on a fob if they are broken or stuck. If none of these solutions work, a dealership could be your only option, unless you can find an automotive locksmith that has the equipment to work on the latest models. Dealers are usually the most expensive, however they also have the most comprehensive knowledge of car technology and systems. However, they can take some time to fix your car and aren't guaranteed to offer the best prices.
Transponder Keys
Chip keys or transponder keys are a modern key type that has embedded computer chips on it. The chip will send an encoded signal to the vehicle when the key cylinder is inserted. This code is used by the car to turn on the engine and open the doors. These are much harder to steal and are is a great way to deter thieves.
A professional locksmith will be able to cut a basic transponder chip (key) for your vehicle at a cheaper cost than dealers. It is important to remember that you'll still need to get the key programmed to match the code in your vehicle's ECM in the event that you replace an existing one.
You can also have a basic transponder key cloned from the original if have it. It will not permit you to start your car, however, as most cars are equipped with immobilizer systems that require the correct key to be used to function.
In the past it was simple to hot-wire a car. It involves running two wires from the engine of the vehicle to a power source in a different location, such as an apartment. The car will start when the starter is turned on. However, transponder keys make it 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 ignition system.
This makes the key more difficult to steal and, if your vehicle is equipped with an immobilizer, it will not start when you use the key that is not transponder-compatible. Therefore, it is important to keep a spare transponder in your purse or pocket just in case. If you have lost your spare key, then you will have contact your local automotive locksmith or dealer to duplicate the key that was lost in order to restart your car. Dealers will charge a higher fee for this service, since they are the only ones who can manufacture keys for certain car brands.
Smart Keys
You may have smart keys when you drive an older model of car. Often called fobs, proximity keys or remotes, these devices permit drivers to unlock their cars and start them without the need for the physical key. The technology has been in use since the 1990s, but was a feature used in high-end luxury vehicles at that time.
Basically, smart keys communicate with your vehicle via an electronic signal via radio waves. The signals are encrypted, and only your car is able to read them. Certain keys come with a button to activate your car's ignition or locks. Some keys also come with GPS technology that determines the location of your vehicle if stolen.
The key can be a small key fob or embedded in the handle. Either way, if you lose your key, you'll likely need to visit your dealership or auto locksmith for assistance with replacement. Smart keys are different from traditional keys and can only be replaced by a dealer.
The cost will depend on the type and make of vehicle you own, as well as your key. For instance, a standard key that uses a lock-and-key mechanism will usually only cost $10 to $12 to replace. Transponder keys, on the other hand, will be more expensive. Generally, you'll need to bring your spare smart key and proof of ownership to your car dealer to get it replaced.
Some experts warn that smart keys could be hacked by someone who knows what they're looking for. Smart keys, for instance transmit signals at very low frequency when compared to other devices. This makes them easier to obtain from the gas station. This kind of hack may even operate from an extended distance, according to How Stuff Works Electronics.
Smart keys are becoming increasingly popular and are more practical. They keep cars secure, provide peace of mind and assist owners keep their keys organized. You should invest in one and keep a spare key in your car just in case.