How to Get Replacement Keys For Your Car
It's time to replace a damaged or lost car key. There are a variety of options for getting one, including auto locksmiths, roadside assistance or the dealership.
The easiest type of new car keys to replace are the classic double-edged keys that most people still use. Keys can be made at a hardware shop for around $10.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, transponder chips have small electronic circuits within them that communicate with your car. When you put the key in the ignition, it sends an electronic code to your car that matches the information the chip has stored. Once the codes are matched the engine will begin to run. This is an excellent security feature to ward off car thieves who might try to hot-wire your vehicle.
If you do lose your transponder keys or it gets stolen, you'll have to visit a locksmith to get the replacement. They have the expertise to clone the chip from your old key and then program it to the new key. This process is more expensive and complex than simply getting a standard key for your car, but it is the only way to ensure that your car will start.
If you have to replace a lost transponder, you should hire an expert who has expertise working on your vehicle. They must be able to recognize the exact model and immobilizer system of your vehicle. This will ensure that the new key fits your ignition properly and functions with the rest of the security features.
Most people don't know that they can have their remote car keys duplicated by a locksmith, rather than an auto dealer. Using the same technology as dealerships locksmith, a locksmith can duplicate your existing car key and program it for much cheaper than the dealer costs.
Many people visit an auto dealer when they break or lose their keys. This can be an error, because you'll usually pay more for the same service that you can receive from a local locksmith. Additionally, the dealership has a much more expensive overhead, which means they have to charge more for their services.
Whatever type of car keys you have It's recommended to search for the most affordable price. If you're in a rush it might be worth the extra cost to go with locksmiths that offer an emergency service that is available 24 hours a day. Be sure to confirm that the locksmith you select is licensed and insured before hiring them.
Laser-Cut Keys
You may have noticed that if you recently bought a newer vehicle that the key is different from keys that were used on older vehicles. The majority of modern cars require keys that are laser cut. These keys, which are sometimes called sidewinder keys, are made using lasers that have the ability to cut more deeply than conventional mechanical keys. They are also more durable and may be hard to duplicate.
If home-page does manage to acquire one of these keys they'll have to get it programmed to their specific vehicle in order to work. This can be done at a dealership, or by an experienced locksmith. The procedure of programming a new key is straightforward and usually costs less than the replacement for the standard key.
Laser-cut keys are a step above a standard transponder chip key that have an integrated security system within them. The key emits a signal that is transmitted to the computer in the vehicle and then relays the signal to the ignition and lock. The driver can unlock the doors and switch on the engine just as a normal car key.
This type of key is more costly and difficult to make, since it requires special equipment that isn't readily available at hardware stores. This makes them more expensive and difficult for thieves to acquire.
Laser-cut keys provide an additional layer in security for vehicles. They are more difficult to pick up or bump than traditional keys keys, and have unique key patterns which reduce the chance that a person will use the same key for multiple vehicles. These keys aren't simple to duplicate because the process requires a sophisticated key cutting machine and sophisticated software. This makes them more secure, and a worthy purchase for car owners. You can purchase these keys online, or at any Ace Hardware store. To locate a store near you, just use their store locator tool.
Double-Edged keys
Some cars have double-edged keys with cuts on both sides. They are more difficult to choose than single-edge cut keys as they require a tool that can make cuts on both sides of the key. They are also known as symmetrical cut keys. These are more common on older models of vehicles however they are also found in vending machines, lock boxes and padlocks with higher security.
You'll need to take the double-edged key to your dealer to obtain a replacement. The cost will depend on the type of keys, the year they were manufactured and whether or not there is an attached fob or remote.
Modern key systems come with an embedded transponder in the head of the key that communicates with the car and determines if it is legitimate. These keys are harder to steal, and are marketed as a deterrent to theft. These keys are generally more expensive than mechanical keys, and they require programming by the dealer.
A lot of dealers will charge for this service, but locksmiths may be less expensive. Whatever you decide to go with it is crucial to ensure that they have the tools necessary for your particular vehicle. A good place to begin is by checking the keyway profile of the new key in comparison to your existing one. The key shank should be the same width from the shoulder to tip as the key you have currently.
In some instances dealers may need to purchase an additional key. However you can obtain a spare key at an independent auto parts store or online. Be aware when purchasing a key, as the quality of these keys could vary greatly. The key you receive may not fit properly, and could cause an issue such as a malfunction or other issues in the event that it's not made specifically for your vehicle.
A few years ago, many automobiles began to offer smart keys that let drivers open their vehicles and start it by pressing the button. These are more expensive to replace in the event of a theft and are often offered to discourage theft. If you lose your smart key or fob it will be necessary to pay anything from $200 to $500 to replace it at the dealership.
Keyless Entry
Typically, they are found on newer vehicles, these are the most convenient key options. They emit signals that allow drivers to unlock the vehicle and even start it without inserting a key into the ignition. These keys can also be used to control other functions like rolling down the windows, opening up the trunk and recording presets for memory seats. Luckily, these types of keys are relatively easy to replace for the average car owner. If you do lose your key fob, it could be more difficult to locate an individual who can assist you.
You should go to the dealer to replace a key fob with a transponder. It will take for a few days to receive the replacement and then pair it with your vehicle. It might be more affordable to get an auto locksmith to cut and program the spare key for you if you're on budget.
Another option to save money on a key replacement is to purchase an older model from a dealer or another source. You can get them at much lower prices than what you'd pay at the dealership. Some are even a fraction of the cost of a new key. However, you should always verify the condition of the key and key fob to ensure that they are functioning properly.
Some key fobs come with the metal component of an old-fashioned key encased in plastic. This lets you lock and unlock your vehicle with the press of the button. They are generally less expensive than other kinds of fobs. However, you'll still need to use the metal key in order to start your car.
You can program certain key fobs by following instructions in the owner's manual. Others require specialized equipment that's usually only available through a dealership. If you lose yours, you'll have to get it taken to the dealership and show proof of ownership before they can replace it. This could be very costly especially if you don't have a backup key, therefore it's a good idea to keep a spare key in an accessible location in all times.