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Replacement Keys For Cars It happens to everyone. They are prone to slip out of pockets in coats or under sofa cushions only to be found at the most inconvenient time. Replacement keys for cars are much easier to locate than they were in the past. You can get them replaced at auto locksmiths, hardware stores and dealerships. Lost or Stolen keys Car keys can get lost or stolen in various ways. They could break, be lost, or be left in a location where they can be easily found. Sometimes, they just wear down to the point where they are no longer functioning properly. Whatever the case, it is always a good idea to have a spare car key in order to avoid the cost and hassle of having one replaced. Contact your local automotive locksmith right away if you have lost your keys. They'll usually be able to make you new keys at a lower cost than what it costs at an auto dealer. The locksmith may also be in a position to program your car's features, such as hands-free boot release, on the moment of the call. Before you call, be sure you have your car's VIN number that is required to find the exact year and model of the vehicle to create a new key. You can find it on your dashboard, or in the registration or title paperwork of your vehicle. Depending on the type of key you own, it might be more expensive to replace at the dealership. Dealerships keep on top of this information and will be able to get you an updated key in a short time. You can also purchase authentic factory replacement keys that have all of the latest security features. If you have a standard key that's a turn-key, it's cheaper to visit a local auto locksmith. The locksmith can create an alternative key for less than the dealer, and often, they will come to you onsite. The only issue is if your keys are a transponder style that is, they contain a chip inside them that has been programmed to work with a particular vehicle. Locksmiths are usually able to create keys for you but they cannot program them. You will need bring it in to your dealer to have it programmed. Fob Keys If your car is equipped with fob keys to open and start the vehicle, you need replacement if it malfunctions or is lost. Fob keys are available from the locksmiths, dealers, or in some cases, you can buy one online. The cost depends on the make and model of your vehicle and whether or not it comes with a transponder. A simple fob, that emits a signal to open the doors and starts the engine, can usually be repaired at the dealer or by a locksmith for less than $300. A more advanced key that also has an integrated transponder chip that can verify that the driver is indeed the owner could be more expensive, especially for late-model cars. The most efficient way to save on replacement keys and fobs is to always have an extra set on hand. If you can't afford to carry a spare along with you then ask the dealer to include two sets of keys in the purchase price, or add a third set to to avoid paying a larger fee later on. You can purchase laser-cut keys online at a lower price than those sold by dealers. Some online sellers can program your new key fob, however this may invalidate the warranty on the original and may be illegal in certain states. Before you decide to replace a broken fob, try recharging the battery or resetting it. auto key replacement is usually the culprit for the fob's keypad that doesn't start or isn't programmed. You can also adjust the buttons of a fob if they are stuck or broken. If these steps do not work, you may have go to a dealer or an automotive locksmith, unless the locksmith has the necessary equipment to program the most recent models. Typically, dealers are the most expensive option, but they also have the greatest knowledge of the car's systems and technology. However, they can take a long time to repair your car and aren't guaranteed to offer the lowest price. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, or chip keys, are a new type of key with an embedded computer chip in it. The chip transmits an encoded signal to the vehicle every time the key cylinder is put in. This code is then used by the car to turn on the engine and unlock the doors. These are a lot more than a challenge to steal and can be a great method to deter theft. A professional locksmith will be able to cut the basic transponder chip (key) for your vehicle at a lower cost than an auto dealer. It is crucial to keep in mind that when replacing an old key, you'll still require it to be programmed to match the ECM code of your vehicle. If you already have an original transponder you can request a duplicate made. This will not permit you to start your car however, since most cars are equipped with immobilizer systems which require a specific key to be used for them to function. In the past it was easy to hot-wire a car. This involves connecting two wires from the engine of the vehicle to a power supply in another location, like an apartment. The car starts when the starter is turned on. However, transponder keys make it harder for thieves to steal this as the thief needs the correct key to transmit the coded signal from the chip inside the key to the car's ignition system. This makes the key more difficult to steal and, if your vehicle is equipped with an immobilizer system that is not working, the car will not start if you use an untransponderable key. This is why it's important to always have an extra transponder key in your pocket or purse in case. You'll need to contact your local locksmith to copy the key if you lose it. A dealer will also charge a premium for this service as they usually have exclusive rights to make the key for certain brands of cars. Smart Keys Keys There is a chance that you have an intelligent key if you drive a newer model of car. Often called fobs, proximity keys or remotes they let drivers unlock their cars and start them without requiring a physical key. The technology has been in use since the 1990s, but was a feature that was mostly found in automobiles of the time. Smart keys communicate with vehicles via the radio wireless signal. These signals are encrypted, and only your vehicle can read the signals. Depending on your key it could have an option to activate the ignition or locks of your car and some even have built-in GPS technology that tracks your vehicle location if it's ever stolen. The key itself could be a small fob that you can carry in your pocket, or it can be embedded in the handle of your car. If you lose your key you will need to contact your auto locksmith or dealer to get it replaced. This is because smart keys aren't the standard traditional key and only a car dealer can replace them. The cost is contingent on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the type of key you own. For instance, a standard key with a lock and key mechanism is typically priced between $10-$12 to replace. A transponder key, on the contrary, could be a bit more costly. You'll usually need to bring your spare smart key and evidence of ownership to your car dealer in order to get it replaced. Some experts warn that smart keys could be hacked by someone who knows what they're trying to find. For example the signals sent by smart keys are low-frequency in comparison to other devices, making them simple to pick up at a gas pump. According to How Stuff Works Electronics, this kind of hack is even possible from some distance. In all likelihood smart keys are becoming more common and much more convenient than the older versions. They protect cars, give owners peace of mind, and assist to keep them organized. It is recommended to invest in one and keep a spare key on hand just in case.