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Replacement Keys For Cars Losing car keys happens to the best of us. key car replacement have a tendency to disappear from pockets in coats or under sofa cushions only to be found at the most inconvenient times. Car keys replacements are easier to find than they were in the past. Here are some alternatives to replace keys: auto locksmiths hardware stores and dealerships. Lost or Stolen keys Car keys can get lost or stolen in various ways. Sometimes they break, and other times they're lost or are placed in a location that can be easily found. Sometimes they simply wear out to the point that they can no longer function. It's always a good idea to keep an extra key in case you need to save the hassle of having to replace one. Contact your local automotive locksmith right away if you have lost your keys. They'll usually be able to create new keys for less than it costs at a dealership. The locksmith may also be capable of programming your car's features like hands-free boot release, right on the on the spot. Before calling, make sure you have your VIN number from your car that is required to find out the exact model and year of the vehicle to create a new key. You may locate this on your dashboard or you may need to verify the title or registration documents. Depending on the type of key you have, it might be more costly to buy a new one from a dealer. Dealerships keep track of this information so they will be able to get you an updated key in a short time. You can also purchase a genuine factory-replacement key with all the latest security features. If you have a standard key that's a turnkey it's more affordable to visit a local auto locksmith. The locksmith can make you an replacement key for less than the dealer, and they can often be there on site. The only problem with this is if your keys are transponder style that is, they have a chip in the key that is programmed to work with the specific vehicle. Locksmiths are usually able to make the key for you but they will not be able to program it, and you will need to take it to the dealership to have this done. Fob Keys If you have a fob that allows you to open and start your vehicle, or the fob is broken, then you will need an alternative. Fob keys can be replaced by a dealership or a locksmith, or in some cases you can purchase one on the internet. The cost of replacement varies greatly based on the make and model of your vehicle and if it comes with a transponder key or not. A simple key 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 sophisticated key that also has an embedded transponder chip to verify the driver is the owner may be more expensive, particularly for cars that are late-model. The best method to save on fobs and keys that need replacement is to always keep an extra set with you. 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 save you from paying higher fees later. You can find laser-cut aftermarket keys online for a much lower price than those sold by dealers. Some sellers on the internet can program your new key fob, but this could void the warranty on the original key and could be illegal in certain states. Before you decide to replace a damaged fob, try recharging the battery or resetting it. A dead battery is often the reason for a key fob that won't turn on or can't be programmed. You can also alter the buttons on the fob in case they're broken or stuck. If the steps above don't work, you may have to go to a dealership unless an automotive locksmith has the required programming equipment for the most recent models. Dealers are generally the most expensive option, but they also have the most extensive knowledge of the technology and systems used in cars. However, they can take an extended time to repair your vehicle and aren't guaranteed to offer the best prices. Transponder Keys Transponder keys or chip keys are a more modern key type that comes with an embedded computer chip on it. The chip sends an encoded signal to the vehicle every time the key cylinder is put in. The car utilizes 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 can cut an ordinary replacement transponder key (chip) for your vehicle for a much lower cost than the dealer can charge. It is important to keep in mind that you'll need to have the key programmed to match the code in your vehicle's ECM when replacing an existing key. You could also use the basic transponder key copied from the original if you have it. It will not be in a position to start your car, as many cars come with immobilizer systems that require a specific key in order to function. In the past, it was very easy to hot wire the car. This process involves running two wires from the car's ignition to a power source in another location, like an apartment building. The car then starts when the starter is turned on. Transponder keys make it 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 is equipped with an immobilizer, it won't start if you've got no transponder. Therefore, it is important to keep an extra transponder in your pocket or purse just in the event of. If you have lost your spare key, then you will have contact your local locksmith or dealer to duplicate the lost key in order to restart your car. Dealers will charge a higher fee for this service, since they are the only ones to manufacture keys for certain car brands. Smart Keys Keys If you own a more modern model car, chances are that your key has an intelligent element inside it. Sometimes called fobs, proximity keys or remotes These devices permit drivers to unlock their cars and begin using them without requiring an actual key. The technology isn't new however it was only available in top-of-the-line luxury vehicles at the time. Basically smart keys communicate with your vehicle via an electronic signal via radio waves. These signals are encrypted, and only your vehicle can read the signals. Some keys include an option to turn on the ignition of your vehicle or lock. Other keys may also have GPS technology that determines the location of your vehicle if stolen. The key can be a small fob or embedded in the handle. In either case, if you lose it, you'll likely need to visit your dealership or auto locksmith for assistance to replace it. Smart keys differ from traditional keys and can only be replaced by a dealer. How much it will cost will depend on the model and make of your vehicle and the kind of key you have. For instance, a basic key that uses a lock-and-key mechanism is usually priced between $10 to $12 to replace. Transponder keys, on the other hand, tend to be more expensive. You'll usually need to bring the spare smart key along with proof of ownership to your car dealer in order to replace it. Some experts warn that smart keys can be hacked if someone is aware of what they are trying to find. For instance, the signals transmitted by smart keys are relatively low-frequency compared to those of other devices, which makes them simple to detect at the gas pump. According to How Stuff Works Electronics, this kind of hack is even possible from the distance. In all likelihood smart keys are becoming more widespread and much more convenient than the older versions. They help keep cars safe and provide owners with peace of mind, and assist to keep them organized. You should invest in one, but keep a spare key in your car just in case.