Replacing Lost Car Keys
It is a very common problem to lose your car keys. It can be a hassle. Contacting an auto locksmith that is specialized in car keys is the quickest and most cost-effective option to obtain a new key.
They'll typically make an entirely new key for you, without having to provide proof of ownership. This will save you time and money instead of having to visit the dealer.
Basic Keys
It used to be that losing keys to your car wasn't a big deal and, in many cases, it still isn't. As automobiles have advanced, so have their keys. The process of replacing a missing car key has become more complicated and costly.
If you've lost your keys, or someone has taken them, you can generally find an option to purchase new keys, but the exact procedure can differ according to the kind of car you drive and the type of key you own. The process and the cost will vary based on whether you have an electronic key fob or a traditional key.
Traditional keys are purely mechanical, and operate by inserting them into the lock cylinder to turn on the vehicle. Locksmiths in the automotive industry can replace these keys, and is often in a position to create a new one immediately. They'll need proof of ownership such as the registration or title to do this, however.
Most traditional key sets can be used with key fobs. Key fobs function as remotes and allow you to control certain functions of your vehicle. To replace the standard key with a keyfob you'll need to visit an auto-locksmith professional who has the right tools to cut the key to match your car model and then program the code.
It is possible to purchase replacement keys and key fobs for only a fraction of the price you pay to your dealer. But, lost key to car to determine the type of key you have and look around prior to purchasing online, as not all shops have the proper equipment for all models of car.
You'll have to visit the dealer to replace the smart key. These keys are more like remote controls and require a button be pressed to start the car. These keys are expensive to replace, but they are typically covered by the warranty of the car you own.
Transponder Keys
As cars have gotten more technologically advanced, so do the keys that accompany them. Many older vehicles still have metal keys. However, most modern automobiles have transponder keys. This type of key has a microchip that needs to be programmed to work. This makes it harder for thieves to duplicate and hot wire.
A transponder key is called a chip key and derives its name from the electronic chip placed inside the head of the key. These keys are now common on the majority of newer models of automobiles. They stop theft of vehicles by preventing cars to start without the correct key. The key's immobilizer is activated by the transponder, which transmits an alert when the key is used.
If you have a spare transponder then you can contact an automotive locksmith to have it cloned. The process is fairly easy, but the price will be higher than if you were to have a new transponder key made. The locksmith will need to restore the key cylinder cuts and then disassemble the mechanism before they are able to make the duplicate.
The good news is that even if you don't have a spare key, your locksmith is likely to be able of making you a non-transponder-only key that will unlock and operate your vehicle. They can do this by analyzing the information in the transponder of the lost key and copying it into a brand new, blank key. The key must be programmed to responds to the immobilizer of your car. But at least you won't need to try to start it.
While transponder keys do assist in preventing theft of cars It's important to remember that nothing is foolproof. Even with this technology thieves have found ways of starting stolen cars. If you own a car or a reliable family car, it's best to keep a spare key in a secure place.
Fob Keys
Designed to do more than just unlock and start the car, today's advanced key fobs can also be used as convenience devices and even theft deterrents. All this functionality comes at the cost. Fob keys are more expensive than traditional car keys and are more difficult to replace in the event of being damaged or lost.
Fobs transmit radio signals that have an encoded code to a receiver in the car. The receiver then performs functions like locking or unlocking doors, turning on the motor, and activating security systems for vehicles. Fobs have a small key embedded inside that can be used in the case that the fob does not work correctly.
Most of the time, you're better off visiting a dealer. A dealer is capable of creating a replacement car key fob which is programmed to your car using the VIN number that is on file, and you'll also have the added assurance of an electronic backup.
It's important to remember that locksmiths can't replace all modern car keys fobs since they require programming equipment that is out of reach of a majority of locksmiths. The cost of replacing a car key fob can be as high as $400, depending on the brand and model.
If your key fob doesn't work properly, first try replacing the battery. A lot of manufacturers have instructions on how to do this on their websites or in the owner's manual. Hardware stores and big-box retailers sell affordable key fob batteries.
A software problem could be the reason your remote fob for your car isn't functioning. If this is the case, you may be able fix the problem by resetting the car's keys according to the instructions provided in the owner's guide (or searching for one online).
A locksmith can also re-program your key fob remotely. This process usually takes less than a minute and will reduce the expense of purchasing a new key fob.
Smart Keys
There are few things worse than reaching into your purse or pocket and finding you've lost your car keys. It's a feeling of despair that can cause anxiety stress, stress, and panic.
Fortunately, replacing your car key isn't as complicated or expensive as it was in the past and especially if you have fobs that require an unlock code to start the vehicle. Fobs also have other options, like trunk openers or remote engine starter, that make it easier to enter and drive.
Smart keys are the most advanced keys type and provide drivers with the most convenience. They activate a proximity sensor within the vehicle, allowing you to lock and unlock your car's door using a button or tap on your phone. You can also start the engine remotely to warm or cool the interior prior to entering. Smart keys are a standard feature in many modern cars.
The same technology that makes smart keys more practical also increases the chance of losing them. Although there are ways you can prevent a lost smart key, such as keeping it close to you or having a backup fob, you'll have to call your dealership or locate an auto locksmith who offers fob replacements to get an alternative one.
Smart keys are made to work in certain situations. If you misplace your keys in the trunk, for instance, it will still work in the event that the vehicle battery is fully charged. If you lose your smart key and have no clue where it is located it will be alerted by the system to the driver if the vehicle is at risk of becoming locked.
You can quickly and easily find a replacement car key fob by contacting a firm like Keyway Lock Service. You can request your local dealer to send you a new key, but it may cost more than hiring a locksmith for your car.