Ten Replacement Keys For Cars That Really Change Your Life
Replacement Keys For Cars
It happens to all. They have a tendency to slip out of pockets in coats or under sofa cushions only to be found at the most inconvenient time.
Replacement keys for cars are easier to find than they used to be. Here are a few alternatives to replace them: auto locksmiths, hardware stores and dealerships.
Keys that have been stolen or lost are
There are a myriad of ways keys to cars can be lost or stolen. Sometimes they break, other times they're lost or are placed in a location that they can easily located. Sometimes they simply wear out to the point where they can no longer function. It is always a smart idea to have an extra key to save the stress of replacing one.
Contact your local automotive locksmith immediately if you lose your keys. It is possible to find a replacement key at less than what you would buy from an auto dealer. The locksmith might also be in a position to program your car's features, like hands-free boot release on the spot.
Be sure to bring your VIN number ready when you call. This is needed to determine the exact year and model of the car for the purpose of creating a new key. You may locate this on your dashboard or you might need to verify the title of the car or registration documents.
The cost of replacing your key at a dealership could be more expensive depending on the type. Dealerships keep on top of this information and will be in a position to provide you with a new key quickly. You can also obtain authentic factory replacement keys that have all the most recent security features.
On the other hand, if you have an ordinary turn-key key, it will be cheaper to go to a local auto locksmith. The locksmith will offer you a key replacement at a lower cost than a dealer and will often come to your location.
The only exception is if you have transponder keys which are programmed for a specific vehicle. Locksmiths are usually able to create keys for you however, they are not able to program them. You'll have bring it in to your dealer to get it programmed.
Fob Keys
If you have a fob that allows you to start and open your vehicle, or if the fob is broken it is time to get a new one. Fob keys are available from the locksmith, dealerships, or in some instances, you can purchase one online. The cost of replacement varies greatly based on the model and make of your car and whether it has a transponder key or not.
A simple fob that emits an indication to open the doors and start the engine could be replaced by a dealer or locksmith for less than 300 dollars. A key with a transponder chip that verifies the owner is the person who purchased it or a more advanced key, may be more costly. car key barrel replacement is especially applicable to late model cars.
The best method to save on replacement keys and fobs is to always carry an extra set with you. If you don't have the money to carry around an extra set of keys and need to ask the dealer to add two sets of keys to the purchase price, or to add a third set to the order. This will save you from paying higher fees later. There are laser-cut aftermarket keys online for a much lower cost than those sold by dealers. Some sellers on the internet will program the new key fob, but this may invalidate the warranty of the original key and could be illegal in some states.
Try recharge or reset the battery before you decide to replace your broken fob. A dead battery is usually the reason for keys that don't start or isn't programmed. It's also possible that the buttons on a fob can get stuck or broken, and adjusting them may fix the problem. If these steps do not work, you might have to visit a dealer or an automotive locksmith, unless the locksmith has the equipment to program the most current models. Dealers are typically the most expensive, however they also have the most in-depth understanding of car technology and systems. However, they can take an extended time to repair your vehicle and aren't guaranteed to offer the lowest price.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys or chip keys are a more modern key type that comes with an embedded computer chip in it. The chip sends an encoded signal to the vehicle whenever the key cylinder is put in. This code is then used by the car to turn on the engine and then open the doors. They are also than a challenge to steal and are a great way to stop theft.
A professional automotive locksmith will be able to cut an ordinary transponder chip (key) for your vehicle for less than dealers. It is important to note that you'll still require the key to be programmed to match the code in your vehicle's ECM when replacing an existing one.
If you already have an original transponder, you can have a copy made. This will not allow you to start your car however, since most cars have immobilizer systems that require the correct keys to be used for them to function.
In the past, it was very easy to heat wire the car. This process involves connecting two wires from the ignition of the car to a power source in another location, like an apartment building. The car starts when the starter is switched on. Transponder keys make it more difficult for thieves to steal this as the thief needs the correct key to transmit the coded signal from the chip inside the key to the ignition system.
If your vehicle has an immobilizer, it will not start if you have an untransponderable key. This is why it is important to keep a spare transponder key in your purse or pocket in case of. If you lose your spare key then you'll have contact your local locksmith or the dealer to clone the key you lost to restart your car. Dealers will also charge a fee for this service since they often have the exclusive rights to make keys for specific models of cars.
Smart Keys Keys
If you drive a newer model car, chances are that your key is equipped with a smart element in it. They are often referred to as fobs, proximity keys or remotes, these devices allow drivers to unlock their vehicles and start them without the need for a physical key. This technology is not new, but it was only available in top-of-the-line luxury cars at the time.
Smart keys communicate with vehicles via a radio wireless wave. These signals are encrypted and only your car is able to read the signals. Some keys include buttons that allow you to turn on your car's ignition or locks. Others may also include GPS technology that can track your vehicle's location in the event of it being stolen.
The key itself could be a small, nifty fob that you can carry in your pocket, or it can be embedded in the car's handle. If you lose your key, you'll likely need to go to your dealer or auto locksmith for assistance in replacing it. Smart keys are different from traditional keys and can only be replaced by a dealer.
The cost will vary based on the type and make of car you have and also the type of key. For example, a basic key that has a lock-and-key mechanism will usually only cost $10-$12 to replace. A transponder key on the contrary, could be a bit more costly. You'll usually need to bring your spare smart key along with evidence of ownership to your car dealer in order to replace it.
Some experts caution against the use of smart keys, as they could be hacked by a person who knows what to look for. For instance, the signals transmitted by smart keys are relatively low-frequency in comparison to other devices, making them easy for someone to spot at a gas station. According to How Stuff Works Electronics, this kind of hack is possible from the distance.
Smart keys are becoming increasingly popular and more practical. They protect cars and give owners peace of mind, and aid them to stay organized. It's a good idea to invest in one of these, but make sure that you keep a backup key on hand in case you need it.