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Replacement Keys For Cars Car keys are lost to the best of us. They are likely to disappear from coat pockets or couch cushions and then be discovered at the worst possible moment. Fortunately, replacement keys for cars aren't as hard to obtain as they were. Here are some options to replace keys: auto locksmiths hardware stores and dealerships. Keys stolen or lost Car keys can be lost or stolen in various ways. Sometimes they break, other times they are misplaced or are put in a spot 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 keep from the stress of replacing one. Contact your local locksmith right away if you have lost your keys. They are likely to make you new keys at a lower cost than what it will cost at a dealership. The locksmith can also program features of your vehicle for hands-free boot opening, on the spot. Make sure you have your VIN number before you call. This is needed to determine the year and model of the car in order to make an entirely new key. You may see this on your dashboard, or you may need to check the vehicle's title or registration documents. The cost of replacing your key at the dealership may be higher depending on the type. Dealerships keep on top of this information so they will be able to get you an updated key in a short time. They will also be able to provide you with a genuine factory replacement key that comes with the most recent security features that are built into. On the other the other hand, if you've got a standard turn-key type of key, it's cheaper to go to a local auto locksmith. The locksmith can create a replacement key for much less than the dealer and often, they will be there on site. The only exception is when you have transponder keys, which are programmed for the specific vehicle. Locksmiths can usually create keys for you however, they are not able to program them. You'll have to bring it to your dealer to have it programmed. Fob Keys If your car uses a fob key to open and start the car and start it, you'll need an alternative when it fails or is lost. Fob keys can be replaced by the dealership, a locksmith or, in some instances you can purchase one from the internet. The cost will depend on the model and make of your car and whether or not it has transponders. A simple key that emits a signal to open the doors and start the engine can be replaced by a locksmith or dealer for less than $300. A more advanced key with an integrated transponder chip that can verify the driver is the owner may be more costly, especially for late-model cars. Keep an extra fob or key always in case you need to save money on replacements. If you aren't able to carry a spare around with you and the dealer isn't willing to include two sets of keys in the purchase price or add a 3rd set to to avoid paying a larger cost later. You can also find laser-cut keys that are made by the aftermarket at a lower price than the ones sold by the dealer. Some sellers on the internet can program your new key fob, but this could void the warranty of the original and be illegal in certain states. Before you decide to replace a broken fob, try charging the battery or resetting it. A dead battery can be the cause of the fob not working or cannot be programmed. It's also possible that the buttons on the fob may be damaged or stuck, and adjusting them may fix the problem. If none of these methods work, a dealership could be the only option, unless you locate an automotive locksmith who has the equipment to work on the latest models. Dealers are typically the most expensive, however they also have the deepest knowledge of car technology and systems. They may take a long time to fix your vehicle and aren't guaranteed to provide the lowest price. Transponder Keys Transponder keys or chip keys are a more contemporary key that has embedded computer chips on the. The chip sends an encoded signal to the vehicle whenever the key cylinder is inserted. The code is then used by the car to turn on the engine and unlock the doors. These are much more difficult to steal and are a good way to stop theft. A professional locksmith can cut an ordinary transponder chip (key) for your vehicle at a lower cost than a dealer. It is important to remember that if you're replacing an old key, you'll still need to have it programmed to match the ECM code of your car. If you already have an original transponder, you can have a copy made. car key replacements will not be in a position to start your car, as many cars have immobilizer systems that require a specific key to function. In the past, it was easy to hot wire the car. It involves running two wires from the engine of the car to a power source in another location, like an apartment. The car will start when the starter is switched on. Transponder keys make this harder for thieves since they require the correct key to transmit the coded signals from the chip in the key to the ignition system of the car. If your car has an immobilizer, it won't start if you've got no transponder. This is why it is essential to always keep an extra transponder keys in your purse or pocket in case. You'll need to contact your local locksmith to copy the key if you lose it. Dealers will also charge a premium for this service as they usually have exclusive rights to make keys for specific models of cars. Smart Keys Keys If you own a more modern model vehicle, it is likely that your key has an intelligent element inside it. Sometimes referred to as fobs, proximity keys or remotes, these devices allow drivers to unlock their cars and begin using them without requiring the physical key. The technology has been in use since the 1990s, but was a feature that was mostly found in automobiles at the time. Smart keys communicate with vehicles via the radio wireless signal. The signals are encrypted, and only your car is able to read the signals. Certain keys come with an option to turn on your car's ignition or locks. Other keys may also have GPS technology that can track your vehicle's location in the event of it being stolen. The key itself can either be a small fob that fits in your pocket, or it can be placed in the car's handle. If you lose your key, you'll need to call your dealer or auto locksmith to get it replaced. This is because smart keys aren't your standard traditional key, and only the car dealer can replace them. The cost will depend on the make and model of your car, as well as the type of key you own. For instance, a standard key with a lock and key mechanism will usually only cost $10 to $12 to replace. Transponder keys, on the other hand, will be more expensive. It is generally necessary to bring your spare smart key and proof of ownership to your dealer to replace it. Some experts warn that smart keys can be hacked if someone 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 easy to pick up from a gas station. According to How Stuff Works Electronics, this kind of hack is possible from some distance. In any case the use of smart keys is becoming more common and a lot more convenient than traditional keys. They keep cars secure and offer peace of mind and assist owners to stay organized. It's a good idea to invest in one of these but ensure that you have a spare key on hand, just in case.