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Replacement Keys For Cars Car keys are lost to the best of us. They can disappear from coat pockets or sofa cushions only to be discovered at the most inconvenient time. Fortunately, replacement keys for cars aren't as difficult to get as they once were. Here are some options to replace them: auto locksmiths, dealerships and hardware stores. Lost or Stolen keys There are a variety of ways keys to your car can be stolen or lost. They can break, get misplaced, or be left in a location where they can be easily found. Sometimes, they wear out to the point where they can no longer function. It is always a smart idea to keep an extra key to avoid the hassle of having to replace one. Contact your local locksmith right away if you have lost your keys. You will usually be able to find a replacement key at an affordable price than you would pay at a dealer. The locksmith can also program the features of your vehicle like hands-free boot opening on the on the spot. Before you call, make sure you have your VIN number for your vehicle, which is necessary to determine the exact model and year of the vehicle in order to create new keys. car key replacement may be able to see this on your dashboard, or you may have to check the vehicle's title or registration paperwork. The cost of replacing your key at the dealership may be more expensive depending on the kind of key. Dealerships keep the track of this information, and will be able to get you the key you need quickly. You can also obtain a genuine factory-replacement key with all the latest security features. On the other hand, if you have an ordinary turn-key key, it's cheaper to go to a local auto locksmith. The locksmith will make you a key replacement for much less than the dealer and frequently come to your place. The only exception is if you have transponder keys, that are programmed to work for a specific vehicle. Locksmiths can usually create keys for you, however, they are not able to program them. You will need to bring it to your dealer to get it programmed. Fob Keys If you have a fob to open and start your car, or if the fob is broken and you need a new one. Fob keys can be replaced by the dealership or a locksmith, or in some instances, you can even order one from the internet. The cost depends on the model and brand of your vehicle and whether or not it is equipped with transponders. A simple fob, which emits a signal that opens the doors and then starts the engine, can typically be replaced at the dealer or by locksmiths for less than $300. A key that has a transponder chip that proves the driver is the owner or a more sophisticated key, could be more expensive. This is especially true for late model cars. The best method to save money on fobs and keys that need replacement is to always keep an extra set on hand. If you don't have the funds to carry around an extra set of keys, ask the dealer to add two sets of keys to the purchase price or to add a third the order. This will prevent you from paying higher fees later. You can also find laser-cut keys from the aftermarket at a lower price than those sold by the dealer. Some sellers online can program your new fob for you, however this may void any warranty that was provided with the original key and could be illegal in certain states. Try charging or resetting the battery before deciding to replace your broken device. A dead battery is often the reason for keys that don't start or isn't programmed. It's also possible that the buttons on a fob could get stuck or broken, and adjusting them may solve the issue. If these steps don't work, a dealership could be your only option, unless you can find a locksmith for your vehicle that has the programming equipment to work with the latest models. Generally, dealers are the most expensive option, however they also have the greatest knowledge of the car's systems and technology. They can take a while to fix your vehicle and they are not guaranteed to provide the lowest price. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, or chip keys, are a modern type of key that has a computer chip embedded in it. The chip transmits an encoded signal to the vehicle every time the key cylinder is put in. The car uses this code to start the engine and open the doors. They are also difficult to steal and can be a great way to stop theft. A professional locksmith for automotive can cut an ordinary transponder chip (key) for your vehicle for less than an auto dealer. It is crucial to keep in mind that even if you replace an old key, you'll need to have it programmed to match the ECM code of your vehicle. If you already have an original transponder, you can request a duplicate made. This will not allow you to start your car however, as most automobiles are equipped with immobilizer systems that require the correct key to be used for them to function. In the past, it was very easy to heat wire a car. This involves running two wires from the car's engine to a power source in another location, like an apartment. The car will start when the starter is turned on. Transponder keys make this harder for thieves, since they need the correct key to transmit the encoded signals from the chip on key to the ignition system of the car. This makes the key more difficult to steal and if your vehicle has an immobilizer system that is not working, the car will not start when you use the key that is not transponder-compatible. This is why it is important to keep an extra transponder key in your pocket or purse in case of. You'll need to contact your local locksmith shop to duplicate the key in case you lose it. Dealers will charge you more for this service, since they have exclusive rights to make keys for specific car brands. Smart Keys Keys If you have a newer model vehicle, it is likely that your key is equipped with a smart element in it. Often referred to as proximity keys, fobs or remotes, these devices let drivers unlock their cars and begin using them without the need for the physical key. The technology is not new however it was only accessible in high-end automobiles at the time. Basically smart keys communicate with vehicle by sending a wireless signal through radio waves. These signals are encrypted and only your vehicle can read them. Depending on the type of key you use that you have, it may come with a button that activates your car's locks or ignition, and some also have built-in GPS technology that can track your vehicle's location if ever stolen. The key itself could be a small keychain that fits inside your pocket, or it could be a part of the handle of your car. If you lose your keys, you'll need to contact your auto locksmith or dealer in order to replace it. This is because smart keys aren't your standard traditional key and only a dealership can replace them. The cost will depend on the make and type of car you have, as well as your key. A standard key with a lock-and -key mechanism costs $10 to $12. A transponder key on the other hand, is likely to be a bit more expensive. In general, you'll need bring your spare smart key as well as evidence of ownership to the car dealer to get it replaced. Some experts warn against the convenience of smart keys because they are susceptible to hacking by anyone who knows what to look for. Smart keys, for instance, transmit signals at a relatively low frequency compared to other devices. This makes them easier to get from an oil station. This kind of hack can even operate from the distance, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. In any case, smart keys are becoming more popular and are a lot more practical than older options. They can help protect cars and give owners peace of mind, and assist to keep them organized. It's a good idea purchase one, but make sure that you have a spare key in your car, in case of emergency.