Replacement Keys For Cars It happens to everyone. They tend to disappear from coat pockets or couch cushions and then be found at the worst possible time. Fortunately, replacement keys for cars aren't as hard to obtain as they were. You can replace them at auto locksmiths, hardware stores and dealerships. Lost or Stolen keys Car keys can be stolen or lost in various ways. They could break, be lost, or be left in a location that is easy to locate. Sometimes, they wear out to the point where they're no longer functioning. Whatever the case, it is always a good idea to have a spare car key order to save the hassle and expense of getting one replaced. If you have lost your key and you lose it, the best thing to do is to contact your local automotive locksmith as soon as you can. They'll usually be able to make a replacement key at a lower cost than what it would cost you at the dealership. Locksmiths can also program features of your car like hands-free boot opening on the moment of the call. Before you call, be sure you have your VIN number from your car that is required to find the exact year and model of the vehicle to create an original key. It is located on your dashboard, or in the registration or title paperwork of your vehicle. Depending on the type of key you own it could be more costly to buy a new one from a dealer. Dealerships keep track of this information so they will be capable of obtaining the key you need quickly. You can also get a genuine factory-replacement key with all the latest security features. On the other the other hand, if you've got an ordinary turn-key key, it is cheaper to go to an auto locksmith in your area. Locksmiths can make an alternative key for cheaper than the dealer and often, they will be there on site. The only problem with this is if your keys are transponder-style that means they contain a chip inside the key that is programmed to work with a particular vehicle. Locksmiths can usually create keys for you however, they are not able to program them. You'll need to bring it to your dealer to get it programmed. Fob Keys If your car is equipped with fob keys to open and start the vehicle you will require a replacement for that in the event that it malfunctions or gets lost. Fob keys can be replaced by a dealership or a locksmith, or in some instances you can purchase one from the internet. The cost is largely contingent on the make and model of your vehicle as well as whether it comes with a transponder key or not. A simple key that emits a signal to open the doors and start the engine can be replaced by a dealer or locksmith for less than 300 dollars. A more advanced key that also has a built-in transponder chip to confirm that the driver is the owner may be more expensive, especially for cars that are late-model. The best method to save money on replacement keys and fobs is to always have a spare with you. If you don't have the money to carry around an extra set and need to ask the dealer to add two sets of keys to the purchase price, or to add a third to the purchase. This will prevent you from having to pay higher costs later. You can also find laser-cut keys that are made by the aftermarket at a price that is lower than the ones sold by the dealer. Some sellers online can program your new key for you, but that could void any warranty that was provided with the original key and may be illegal in certain states. Before you decide to replace a broken fob, try recharging the battery or resetting it. A dead battery may be the reason behind a keyfob that won't work or isn't programmable. It's also possible that the buttons on the fob may get stuck or broken and adjusting them could solve the issue. If these steps do not work, you might have go to a dealer, unless an automotive locksmith has the necessary programming equipment for the most recent models. Dealers are typically the most expensive, however they also have the deepest understanding of car technology and systems. They may take some time to fix your vehicle and they're not sure of offering the best cost. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, or chip keys, are a new type of key with embedded a computer chip within it. The chip will send a coded signal to the car when the key is inserted into the lock cylinder. The car utilizes this code to start the engine or open the doors. These are much more than a challenge to steal and are a good way to stop theft. A professional locksmith for automotive can cut an ordinary replacement transponder key (chip) for your vehicle at a lower cost than what a dealer would charge. It is crucial to keep in mind that if you're replacing an old key, you'll need to program it to match the ECM code of your car. If you already have a transponder that is original, you can request a duplicate made. It will not be able to start your vehicle because many cars have immobilizer systems that require a specific key to function. In the past, it was easy to heat wire an automobile. This process involves connecting two wires from the ignition of the car to a source of power in another location, for instance an apartment building. The car starts when the starter is switched on. However, transponder keys make it harder for thieves to steal this, since they require the correct key to transmit the coded signal from the chip in the key to the car's ignition system. If your car is equipped with an immobilizer, it will not start if you have a non-transponder. Therefore, it is important to keep a spare transponder in your pocket or purse just in case. You'll need to call your local locksmith to copy the key if you lose it. A dealer will also charge a fee for this service because they typically have the exclusive rights to produce the key for certain models of cars. Smart Keys You might have an intelligent key in case you own an older model of car. These devices, often referred to as remotes, proximity keys or fobs, permit drivers to open and start their cars without the need for an actual car key. The technology isn't new, but it was only accessible in high-end automobiles at the time. Smart keys communicate with vehicles by sending the radio wireless wave. These signals are encrypted and only your vehicle can read them. Depending on the type of key you use, it may include a button that activates your car's locks or ignition as well as some with 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 can be tucked away inside your pocket, or it can be placed in the handle of your car. If you lose your keys, you'll need to call your dealer or auto locksmith in order to replace it. This is because smart keys aren't like your typical key and only a dealer of your car can replace them. The cost will depend on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the type of key you have. 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 expensive. Generally, you'll need to bring your spare smart key and proof of ownership to your dealer of your vehicle to have it replaced. Some experts warn that smart keys can be hacked if someone is aware of what they're seeking. For example the signals transmitted by smart keys are relatively low-frequency when compared to other devices, making them simple to pick up at the gas pump. According to How Stuff Works Electronics, this type of hacking is possible from the distance. In all likelihood smart keys are becoming more widespread and a lot more convenient than older options. They keep cars secure and provide peace of mind, and help owners keep their keys organized. You should consider investing in one and keep a spare key in your car just in case.