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Replacement Keys For Cars It happens to everyone. They are likely to disappear from pockets on coats or sofa cushions only to be discovered at the worst possible time. Car keys replacements are easier to find than they used to be. Here are a few options to replace keys: auto locksmiths hardware stores and dealerships. Lost or Stolen keys There are a variety of ways keys to cars can be lost or stolen. Sometimes they break, but other times they are misplaced or placed in a location where they can be easily found. Sometimes, they just wear out to the point where they no longer function properly. It is always a good idea to keep an extra key to save the hassle of having to replace one. Contact your local automotive locksmith immediately if you lose your keys. It is possible to obtain a replacement key for a lower price than you'd pay at the dealer. The locksmith might also be in a position to program your car's features like hands-free boot release, on the moment of the call. Make sure you have your VIN number ready when you call. This is needed to determine the exact year and model of the vehicle in order to make the new key. You can find it on your dashboard or in the registration or title paperwork of your vehicle. Depending on the kind of key you have, it might be more costly to buy a new one from a dealer. Dealerships keep track of this information and are capable of obtaining an updated key in a short time. You can also get authentic factory replacement keys that have all of the latest security features. If you have a standard key that is a turn-key it's more affordable to visit a local auto locksmith. The locksmith can create an alternative key for cheaper than the dealer and often, they will be there on site. The only exception is when you have transponder keys which are programmed to work for the specific vehicle. Locksmiths can usually make keys for you, but they cannot program them. You'll have bring it in to your dealer to get it programmed. Fob Keys If your car uses a fob key to open and start the car, you need an alternative if it malfunctions or is lost. Fob keys are available at the locksmith, dealerships and in some cases, you can buy one online. The cost varies widely depending on the make and model of your vehicle as well as whether it has a transponder keys or not. A basic fob, which emits a signal that opens the doors and starts the engine, is usually be repaired at the dealer or by a locksmith for less than $300. A key with a transponder chip that proves the owner of the key or a more sophisticated key, can be more expensive. This is particularly relevant for cars that are late in their production. Keep a spare fob or key always in case you need to save money on replacements. If you aren't able to carry a spare along with you, ask the dealer to include two sets of keys as part of the purchase price, or add a third set to to avoid paying a larger cost later. You can also purchase laser-cut keys that are made by the aftermarket at a lower price than those offered by the dealer. Some sellers online can program your new fob for you, but that could void any warranty on the original key and could be illegal in certain states. Try recharging or resetting the battery before deciding to replace your broken fob. A dead battery could be the reason behind a keyfob that won't work or isn't programmed. It's also possible that the buttons on the fob may be damaged or stuck, and adjusting them may fix the problem. If these steps don't work, a dealership could be your only option, in the event that you cannot find an automotive locksmith that has the programming equipment to work with the latest models. Typically, dealers are the most expensive option, but they also have the best knowledge of the car's systems and technology. However, key replacement car may take some time to work on your vehicle and aren't able to offer the best prices. Transponder Keys Chip keys, also known as transponder keys are a more modern key type that comes with embedded computer chips on it. The chip will send a coded signal to the car when the key is put into the lock cylinder. The code is then used by the car to start the engine and unlock the doors. These are much more than a challenge to steal and can be a great method to deter theft. A professional automotive locksmith can cut an ordinary replacement transponder key (chip) for your car for a much lower cost than what the dealer will charge. However, car key replacements is important to keep in mind that you will still need to get the key programmed to match the code in your vehicle's ECM when replacing an existing one. You could also use the basic transponder key copied from the original if have it. This will not permit you to start your car however, since most cars are equipped with immobilizer systems that require the correct key to be used in order to function. In the past, it was very easy to heat wire an automobile. This involves running two wires, from the engine of the car to a power supply in another location, like an apartment. The car will start when the starter is turned on. Transponder keys make it more difficult for thieves to steal this since the criminal requires the correct key to transmit the coded signal from the chip on the key to the ignition system. This makes the key difficult to steal, and if your vehicle has an immobilizer, it will not start if you use an untransponderable key. This is why it's important to always have an extra transponder keys in your pocket or purse in case of. You'll need to contact your local locksmith to duplicate the key if you lose it. Dealers will also charge a fee for this service since they typically have the exclusive right to create keys for certain kinds of vehicles. Smart Keys Keys There is a chance that you have an intelligent key if you drive a newer model of vehicle. Sometimes referred to as proximity keys, fobs or remotes they allow drivers to unlock their cars and start them without requiring a physical key. The technology has been around since the 1990s, but was a feature used in high-end automobiles at the time. Smart keys communicate with vehicles via an radio wireless signal. These signals are encrypted and only your vehicle is able to read them. Some keys include an option to turn on your car's ignition or locks. Other keys may also have GPS technology that tracks your vehicle's location if stolen. The key itself could be a small, nifty fob that fits in your pocket, or could be a part of the handle of your car. Either way, if you lose it you'll need to go to your dealer or auto locksmith for assistance in replacing it. Smart keys differ from traditional keys and can only be replaced by a dealer. How much is contingent on the make and model of your car and the type of key you have. A basic key with a lock-and -key mechanism costs between $10 and $12. Transponder keys on the other hand, will be more expensive. In general, you'll have to bring your spare smart key along with proof of ownership to your car dealer to get it replaced. Some experts warn that smart keys can be hacked if someone knows what they're trying to find. Smart keys, for example, transmit signals at a lower frequency than other devices. This makes them easy to pick up at an oil station. This kind of hack could even operate from a distance according to How Stuff Works Electronics. In all likelihood smart keys are becoming more popular and are a lot more practical than the older versions. They keep cars secure and offer peace of mind and help owners keep their keys organized. You should consider investing in one, but keep a spare key handy just in case.