Ten Replacement Keys For Cars That Really Improve Your Life

Replacement Keys For Cars

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

Replacement keys for cars are easier to find than they were in the past. Here are a few options to replace them: auto locksmiths, dealerships and hardware stores.

Lost or Stolen keys

Car keys can get stolen or lost in many ways. They can break, get misplaced, or be left in a location where they are easily found. Sometimes, they wear out to the point that they are no longer functioning properly. Whatever the case it's always a good idea to have a spare car key order to avoid the hassle and expense of getting one replaced.

Contact your local locksmith immediately if you lose your keys. You can usually find a replacement key at an affordable price than you'd pay at the dealer. The locksmith will probably also be capable of programming your car's features, like hands-free boot release, on the moment of the call.

Be sure to have your VIN number ready when you call. This is required to determine the exact year and model of the vehicle for the purpose of creating the new key. You may be able to see this on your dashboard or you may have to verify the title of the car or registration papers.

The cost for replacement car key of replacing your key at the dealership may be more expensive depending on the kind of key. Dealerships keep on top of this information and are able to get you the key you need quickly. They will also be in a position to offer you a genuine factory replacement key for car key that comes with the latest security features that are built into.

On the other side, if you own an ordinary turn-key key, it's more affordable to use an auto locksmith in your area. The locksmith will offer you a key replacement keys car for much less than a dealer and will frequently come to your place.

The only exception is if you have transponder keys, which are programmed for a specific vehicle. Locksmiths are typically capable of making keys for you, but they will not be able to program it, and you'll have to take it to the dealership to have this done.

Fob Keys

If you have a fob that allows you to start and open your car, or if the fob is damaged, then you will need a new one. Fob keys are available from the locksmith, dealerships or in certain cases you can order one online. The cost depends on the make and model of your car and whether or not it is equipped with transponders.

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. A more advanced key with a built-in transponder chip to verify that the driver is indeed the owner could be more expensive, especially for late-model cars.

Keep a spare fob or key always in case you need to save 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 set to the purchase. This will help you save from paying more fees later. You can also purchase laser-cut keys from the aftermarket at a price that is lower than the ones sold by the dealer. Some online sellers can program the new fob for you, but this could void any warranty that was provided with the original key and may be illegal in certain states.

Try charging or resetting the battery prior to deciding to replace the broken fob. A dead battery may be the reason for the fob not working or isn't programmed. It's also possible that the buttons on a fob can become stuck or damaged and adjusting them could solve the issue. If none of these methods work, a dealership may be the only option unless you can find an automotive locksmith that has the programming equipment to work with the most recent models. Dealers are usually the most expensive, but also have the most comprehensive understanding of car technology and systems. However, they can take a long time to work on your vehicle and aren't able to offer the best prices.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also known as chip keys are a type of key with embedded a computer chip within it. The chip transmits an encoded signal to the vehicle every time the key cylinder is put in. This code is used by the car to start the engine and then open the doors. They are much more difficult to steal and are an excellent way to deter thieves.

A professional locksmith will be able to cut the basic transponder chip (key) for your vehicle for less than dealers. It is important to keep in mind that you will still require the key to be programmed to match the code in your vehicle's ECM if you are replacing an existing one.

If you already have an original transponder, you can have a copy made. You will not be able to start your vehicle, as many cars have immobilizer systems which require a specific key in order to function.

In the past, it was easy to hot-wire a car. This involves running two wires from the engine of the vehicle to a power source in a different location, such as an apartment. The car starts when the starter is switched on. However, transponder keys make it difficult for thieves to do 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 more difficult to steal and, if your car has an immobilizer, it will not start if you use a non-transponder key. This is why it is important to always have an extra transponder key in your purse or pocket in case. If you lose your spare key, you'll need to call your local automotive locksmith 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

If you drive a newer model car, chances are that your car key has a smart element in it. They are often referred to as proximity keys, fobs or remotes, these devices allow drivers to unlock their cars and start them without the need for a physical key. The technology has been in use since the 1990s but was that was mostly found in automobiles at the time.

Basically smart keys communicate with the vehicle via a wireless signal through radio waves. These signals are encrypted and only your car can read the signals. Some keys include buttons that allow you to turn on your car's ignition or lock. Other keys may also have GPS technology that tracks your vehicle's location if stolen.

The key can be a small key fob or placed inside the handle. Either way, if you lose your key you'll need to go to your dealer or auto locksmith for help in replacing it. Smart keys are different from traditional keys and can only be replaced by the dealer.

How much is contingent on the make and model of your car, as well as the type of key you have. For instance, a standard key that uses a lock-and-key mechanism will usually only cost $10-$12 to replace. A transponder key, on the other hand, is likely to be a bit more costly. You'll typically need to bring the spare smart key along with evidence of ownership to your car dealer in order 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 a very low frequency when compared to other devices. This makes them easier to obtain from a gas station. According to How Stuff Works Electronics, this type of hacking is possible from some distance.

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