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Replacement Keys For Cars Car keys are lost to the best of us. They have a tendency to disappear from coat pockets or under sofa cushions only to be discovered at the most inconvenient moment. Luckily, 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 There are a myriad of ways keys to cars can be stolen or lost. They can break, get lost, or even be left in a location where they are easily found. Sometimes they simply wear out to the point that they are no longer functional. Whatever the reason it is recommended to keep an extra car key in order to avoid the hassle and expense of getting one replaced. Contact your local automotive locksmith right away if your keys. They'll usually be able to create an alternative key for less than it costs at an auto dealer. Locksmiths can also program features of your car like hands-free boot opening on the on the spot. Make sure you have your VIN number ready when you call. This is needed to determine the exact year and model of the car in order to make an entirely new key. You might be able to locate this on your dashboard, or you might need to verify the title of the car or registration papers. The cost of replacing your key at a dealership could be higher depending on the type. Dealerships will keep track your details to ensure you receive the replacement key as soon as they can. You can also obtain a genuine factory-replacement key with all of the latest security features. If you have a standard key that's a turn-key it's more affordable to visit a local auto locksmith. The locksmith can make you an alternative key for less than the dealer and they can often visit you on the spot. The only issue is if the keys are transponder-style that means they have a chip within the key that is programmed to work with the particular vehicle. Locksmiths are usually able to make keys for you, but not programme it, so you'll need to take it to the dealership to have this done. Fob Keys If your car is equipped with fob keys to open and start the car, you need replacement if it malfunctions or is lost. Fob keys are available from the locksmiths, dealers or in certain instances, you can purchase one online. The cost varies widely depending on the make and model of your vehicle as well as whether it comes with a transponder key or not. A simple fob, which emits a signal that opens the doors and starts the engine, can typically be replaced by the dealer or by locksmiths 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 costly, especially for late-model cars. The most efficient method to save money on fobs and keys that need replacement is to always keep a spare with you. If you can't afford to carry a spare around with you, ask the dealer to include two sets of keys in the purchase price or add a 3rd set to to avoid paying a larger fee later on. You can also purchase laser-cut keys from the aftermarket for a much lower cost than those sold by the dealer. Some sellers online can program your new key for you, however this may 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 charging the battery or resetting it. A dead battery can be the cause of an unresponsive keyfob or cannot be programmed. You can also adjust the buttons of the fob in case they're broken or stuck. If these methods don't work, you may have to visit a dealer, unless an automotive locksmith has the equipment for programming the most current models. Typically, vehicle key replacement are the most expensive option, but they also have the most extensive knowledge of the car's systems and technology. However, they can take some time to work on your vehicle and aren't able to offer the best prices. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, or chip keys are a new type of key with embedded a computer chip within it. The chip sends a coded signal to the car whenever the key is put into the lock cylinder. The car uses this code to start the engine and open the doors. These are much harder to steal, and is a great way to deter thieves. A professional locksmith for automotive can cut a basic replacement transponder key (chip) for your car at a price that is lower than what a dealer would charge. It is important to remember that if you're replacing an old key, you'll require it to be programmed to match the ECM code of your car. You may also get the basic transponder key copied from the original if have it. It will not be in a position to start your car because many cars come with immobilizer systems that require a specific key in order to function. In the past it was easy to hot-wire a car. This process involves connecting two wires from the ignition to a power source in another location, for instance an apartment building. The car starts 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. This makes the key difficult to steal and, if your car has an immobilizer, it will not start when you use an untransponderable key. This is why it's important to keep an extra transponder key in your pocket or purse in case. You'll need to contact your local locksmith shop to copy the key if you lose it. Dealers will also charge a premium for this service since they often have the exclusive right to create the key for certain kinds of vehicles. Smart Keys You might have an intelligent key when you drive a more recent model of car. These devices, which are often referred to as remotes, proximity keys, or fobs, enable drivers to unlock and start their cars without using the physical keys of their car. The technology isn't new, but it was only available in high-end luxury vehicles at the time. Smart keys communicate with vehicles by sending the radio wireless wave. The signals are encrypted, and only your car is able to read them. Depending on your key, it may include an option to activate the ignition or locks on your car and some even have built-in GPS technology to track your vehicle's location if ever stolen. The key could be a small key fob or placed inside the handle. If you lose your key, you'll need to call your dealer or auto locksmith in order to replace it. Smart keys are different from traditional keys and can only be replaced by a dealer. The price will depend on the model and make of car you own as well as the model of your key. For example, a basic 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. In general, you'll have to bring your spare smart key as well as proof of ownership to the dealership to get it replaced. Some experts warn that smart keys can be hacked if someone is aware of what they are looking for. For example the signals sent by smart keys are relatively low-frequency in comparison to other devices, making them easy to detect at a gas pump. According to How Stuff Works Electronics, this type of hacking is possible from a distance. In any case, smart keys are becoming more widespread and are a lot more practical than older options. They protect cars and provide owners with peace of mind, and help them to stay organized. It's a good idea to invest in one of these, but make sure that you have a backup key on hand in case of emergency.