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Replacement Keys For Cars Car keys are lost to the very best of us. They tend to slip out of pockets on coats or underneath sofa cushions only to be found at the most inconvenient moment. Fortunately, replacement keys for cars aren't as hard to obtain as they were. Here are a few of your options for replacing them: auto locksmiths, hardware stores and dealerships. Keys stolen or lost Car keys can be stolen or lost in various ways. They may break, become lost, or even be left in an area where they are easily found. Sometimes they simply wear out to the point that they are no longer functional. Whatever the case it is recommended to keep an extra car key in order to save the expense and hassle of getting one replaced. If you've lost your key and you lose it, the best thing to do is to contact your local auto locksmith as soon as possible. They will usually be able to make you a replacement key for less than what it will cost at a dealership. The locksmith may also be in a position to program your car's features, like hands-free boot release on the moment of the call. Before you call, make sure to get your VIN number for your vehicle that is required to find out the exact model and year of the vehicle in order to create new keys. You can find it on your dashboard or on the title or registration paperwork of your vehicle. The cost of replacing your key at the dealership may be higher based on the kind of key. Dealerships keep the track of this information, so they will be capable of obtaining a new key quickly. You can also get authentic factory replacement keys that have all the most recent security features. If you have a standard lock that's a turnkey it is cheaper to go to a local auto locksmith. The locksmith can create an replacement key for less than the dealer, and often, they will come to you onsite. The only issue is if the keys are transponder style, which means they contain a chip inside them that is programmed to work with a specific vehicle. Locksmiths are usually capable of making the key for you but not program it, so you'll have to take it to the dealership to have this done. Fob Keys If you have a fob to start and open your vehicle, or if the fob is damaged it is time to get a new one. Fob keys are available from the locksmiths, dealers and in some cases, you can buy one on the internet. The cost will depend on the make and model of your car and whether or not it comes with transponders. A simple fob that emits signals to open the doors and start the engine could be replaced by a locksmith or dealer for less than $300. A more sophisticated key that also has an integrated transponder chip that can confirm that the driver is the owner could be more costly, especially for late-model cars. Keep an extra fob or key with you always in case you need to save money on replacements. If replacements car key can't afford to carry a spare along with you and the dealer isn't willing to include two sets of keys as part of the purchase price, or add a third set to to avoid paying a higher fee later on. There are laser-cut aftermarket keys on the internet for a cheaper cost than those offered by dealers. Some online sellers can program your new key fob, but this could void the warranty on the original and be illegal in some states. Try recharge or reset the battery before deciding to replace your broken device. A dead battery could be the reason behind the fob not working or isn't programmable. It's also possible that the buttons on a fob could be damaged or stuck and adjusting them could fix the problem. If none of these solutions work, a dealer may be your only option, in the event that you cannot locate an automotive locksmith who has the equipment to work with the most recent models. Generally, dealers are the most expensive option, but they also have the best knowledge of the technology and systems used in cars. They may take some time to repair your car and they are not guaranteed to provide the lowest cost. Transponder Keys Chip keys, also known as transponder keys are a more contemporary key type that has an embedded computer chip in it. The chip transmits an encoded signal to the vehicle whenever the key cylinder is inserted. The car uses this code to start the engine and open the doors. They are much more difficult to steal and are a great way to discourage thieves. A professional automotive locksmith will be able to cut a basic transponder chip (key) for your vehicle at a lower cost than dealers. It is crucial to keep in mind that if you're replacing an old key, you'll still require it to be programmed to match the ECM code of your vehicle. You can also have a basic transponder key cloned from the original one if you already have it. You will not be capable of starting your vehicle because many cars come with immobilizer systems that require the correct key in order to function. In the past, it was very simple to hot wire a car. This process involves connecting two wires from the car's ignition to a source of power in another location, such as an apartment building. The car starts when the starter is turned on. Transponder keys make it more difficult for thieves since they need the correct key to transmit the encrypted signals from the chip in the key to the ignition system of the vehicle. If your vehicle has an immobilizer, it will not start if you're using an untransponderable key. This is why it is important to keep an extra transponder key in your purse or pocket, just in case. You'll need to call your local automotive locksmith to copy the key if you lose it. Dealers will charge more for this service, since they have exclusive rights to create keys for certain vehicle brands. Smart Keys Keys If you drive a newer model vehicle, it is likely that your key has a smart element in it. They are often called fobs, proximity keys or remotes, these devices let drivers unlock their cars and begin using them without the need for an actual key. The technology has been in use since the 1990s, but was a feature that was mostly found in luxury vehicles at that time. Basically smart keys communicate with vehicle via an electronic signal via radio waves. These signals are encrypted, and only your vehicle is able to read them. Some keys have buttons that allow you to turn on the ignition of your vehicle or lock. Some keys also come with 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 you can carry inside your pocket, or could be a part of the car's handle. If you lose your key you will need to contact your auto locksmith or dealer in order to replace it. This is because smart keys aren't the regular keys and only a dealership can replace them. The cost will depend on the model and make of vehicle you own as well as the model of your key. For instance, a basic key with a lock and key mechanism is usually priced between $10-$12 to replace. Transponder keys on the other, are likely to be more expensive. It is generally necessary to bring your spare smart key and evidence of ownership to the car dealer in order to get it replaced. Some experts caution against the convenience of smart keys because they can be hacked by anyone who knows what to look for. For instance the signals transmitted by smart keys are relatively low-frequency when compared to other devices, making them easy to spot at a gas station. This kind of hack can even be used from a distance, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. In all likelihood the use of smart keys is becoming more popular and much more convenient than the older versions. They secure cars, provide peace of mind, and help owners stay organized. It's a good idea invest in one of these however, make sure you have a backup key on hand, in case you need it.