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Replacement Keys For Cars It happens to all. They tend to disappear from coat pockets or couch cushions and then be found at the most inconvenient time. Fortunately keys to replace for cars aren't as hard to get as they once were. Here are a few options to replace them: auto locksmiths, hardware stores and dealerships. Lost or Stolen Keys There are a variety of ways keys to your car can be stolen or lost. Sometimes they break, and other times they are misplaced or are left in a place that they can easily located. Sometimes they simply wear out to the point where they're no longer functioning. It's always a good idea to keep an extra key to avoid the hassle of having to replace one. If you lose your key and you lose it, the best thing to do is to contact your local automotive locksmith as soon as you can. They are likely to make you new keys for less than it costs at the dealership. Locksmiths can also program features of your vehicle for hands-free boot opening, on the spot. Before you call, make sure that you have the VIN number from your car it is needed to find the exact model and year of the vehicle in order to create an original key. You may see this on your dashboard or you may have to check the vehicle's title or registration papers. The cost of replacing your key at a dealership could be higher based on the type. Dealerships will keep track of your details to ensure that you get an replacement key as fast as they can. You can also purchase an authentic factory-replacement key that has all the latest security features. If you have a standard lock that's a turnkey, it's cheaper to visit a local auto locksmith. The locksmith can provide you with the replacement key for much less than a dealer and will often come to your location. The only exception is if you have transponder keys, which are programmed for a specific vehicle. Locksmiths can typically create keys for you, however they are unable to program them. You will need bring it in to your dealer to get it programmed. Fob Keys If your vehicle uses fob keys to open and start the car and start it, you'll need replacement in the event that it malfunctions or gets lost. Fob keys can be replaced by a dealership or a locksmith in some instances you can order one online. The cost is based on the model and make of your vehicle as well as whether or not it has a transponder. A basic fob that sends signals to open the doors and start the engine could be replaced by a locksmith or dealer for less than $300. A key that has an embedded transponder chip to prove that the owner is the person who purchased it or a more advanced key, could be more costly. This is particularly true for late model cars. The best method to save money on fobs and keys that need replacement is to always keep a spare with you. If resources can't afford to carry a spare along with you and the dealer isn't willing to include two sets of keys in the purchase price or add a 3rd set to the order to avoid paying a higher fee later on. There are also aftermarket, laser-cut keys online at a price that is lower than those sold by the dealer. Some sellers online can program your new key fob, however this may invalidate the warranty of the original key and could be illegal in certain states. Before you decide to replace a damaged fob, you can try charging the battery or resetting it. A dead battery is often the culprit for keys that don't turn on or cannot be programmed. It's also possible the buttons on the fob may get stuck or broken, and adjusting them may solve the issue. If these steps do not work, you might have to go to a dealership unless an automotive locksmith has the necessary equipment for programming the most current models. Dealers are generally the most expensive option, however they also have the best knowledge of car systems and technology. They may take some time to fix your vehicle and aren't guaranteed to provide the lowest cost. Transponder Keys Chip keys, also known as transponder keys are a more contemporary key that has an embedded computer chip in it. The chip transmits an encoded signal to the car whenever the key is inserted 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 are a great way to discourage theft. A professional locksmith can cut an ordinary replacement transponder key (chip) for your car at a price that is lower than what the dealer will charge. It is important to remember that even if you replace an old key, you'll still require it to be programmed to match the ECM code of your vehicle. You may also get an ordinary transponder key copied from the original one if you have it. It will not permit you to start your car however, as most automobiles are equipped with immobilizer systems that require the correct keys to be used in order to function. In the past, it was easy to wire a hot car. It involves connecting two wires from the engine of the car to a power source in a different location, such as an apartment. The car will start when the starter is switched on. Transponder keys make this harder for thieves since they need the correct key to transmit the encoded signals from the chip on key to the ignition system of the car. This makes the key more difficult to steal and, if your car has an immobilizer, it will not start if you use the key that is not transponder-compatible. It is therefore essential to keep an extra transponder in your purse or pocket just in the event of. You will need to contact your local automotive locksmith to duplicate the key in case you lose it. Dealers will charge you more for this service, as they are the only ones who can manufacture keys for certain car brands. Smart Keys Keys You may have an intelligent key when you drive a newer model of car. These devices, which are also known as proximity keys, remotes, or fobs, allow drivers to unlock and start their vehicles without having to use a physical car key. This technology is not new however, it was only accessible in high-end automobiles at the time. Smart keys communicate with vehicles via the radio wave wireless signal. The signals are encrypted and only your vehicle is able to read the signals. Some keys have a button to activate the ignition of your vehicle or lock. Others may also include GPS technology that can track your vehicle's location in the event of it being stolen. The key could be a small fob or embedded in the handle. If you lose your key, you will need to contact your auto locksmith or dealer in order to replace it. Smart keys differ from traditional keys and can only be replaced by a dealer. The cost will depend on the make and type of vehicle you own, as well as your key. A standard key with an lock-and-key mechanism will cost between $10 and $12. Transponder keys, on other hand, tend to be more expensive. You'll usually need to bring the spare smart key and proof of ownership to your car dealer in order to get it replaced. Some experts warn against the use of smart keys, as they are susceptible to hacking by someone who knows what to look for. For example the signals transmitted by smart keys are relatively low-frequency when compared to other devices, making them easy for someone to detect at a gas pump. According to How Stuff Works Electronics, this kind of hack is possible from some distance. Smart keys are becoming more popular and are more convenient. They keep cars secure and offer peace of mind and help owners stay organized. You should consider investing in one, but keep a spare key handy just in case.