Replacing Lost Car Keys
It is a common problem to lose your car keys. It can be a hassle. Calling an auto locksmith who is specialized in car keys is the quickest and most cost-effective option to get a new key.
They'll typically make keys for you, without having to provide proof of ownership. You'll save time and money by not having to go to the dealer.
Basic Keys
In the past, losing your car keys was not an a major issue. In many instances, it still not. But as cars have become more technologically advanced, and so have keys and the process of replacing the lost car keys is more complex and expensive than ever before.
Whether you've lost your keys, or someone has stolen them, you can generally find an option to purchase new keys, but the exact procedure can differ depending on the type of vehicle you own and the type of key you have. If you have an original key or a fob key, for example the procedure will be different and the cost will differ.
The traditional key is purely mechanical, and operates by inserting it into the cylinder of the ignition lock to start the car. Keys of this kind can be changed by a locksmith for automotive use, who is usually in a position to make keys immediately. To do this, they'll need proof of ownership such as the registration or title.
The majority of traditional keys can be used with key fobs. These key fobs act as remotes and allow you to control certain functions of your vehicle. To replace a standard key with a keyfob you will need to visit a professional auto-locksmith with the appropriate tools to cut the key to fit your vehicle model and program the code.
In certain cases it is possible to buy keys and key fobs online for less than the cost you'd pay at your dealer. But, it's essential to research the kind of key you have and look around prior to making a purchase online as not all stores have the right equipment for all car models.
You'll have to visit the dealer to replace the smart key. These keys function like remote controls and require a button be pressed to start the vehicle. The keys are costly to replace, but are usually covered by the warranty of your vehicle.
Transponder Keys
The keys that are included with cars are also more sophisticated. Many older vehicles still have metal keys. However, most newer automobiles have transponder keys. This type of key features an embedded microchip that must be programmed in order to work. This makes them more difficult for thieves to duplicate and makes it much more difficult for them to hot wire.
A transponder key is called a chip key, and gets its name from the electronic chip that is embedded in the head of the key. These keys are the norm for a lot of newer car models, and are designed to stop vehicle theft by making it impossible to start your car without a key. The transponder on the key transmits a signal to the immobilizer of your vehicle when it is used and this is the reason why it is able to start.
If you have a spare transponder keys you can contact an automotive locksmith to have it cloned. The process is fairly straightforward, however the cost will be more expensive than if you were to have a new non-transponder key made. The locksmith must restore the key cylinder cuts and then disassemble the mechanism before they can make a duplicate.
The good news is that even when you don't have a spare key, your automotive locksmith will be able to create you a non-transponder keys that will allow you to operate your vehicle. They can do this by analyzing the information contained in the transponder of the lost key and copying it to a new, blank key. The key will need to be programmed to respond to the immobilizer in your vehicle however, at the very least, you won't have to deal with the hassle of trying to start it.
It's important to keep in mind that even though a transponder can help in preventing car theft, nothing is 100% secure. Even with this technology, thieves have found ways of starting stolen cars. If you drive a high-end car or a family sedan, make sure you keep a spare key in a safe place.
Fob Keys
Modern key fobs are made to do more than just start and unlock the car. They also serve as a convenient device and can even prevent theft. All that functionality comes with a price. Key fobs cost more than traditional car keys and are more difficult to replace if they are lost or damaged.
Fobs send radio signals with encoded codes to a receiver inside the car. The receiver then performs functions like locking or unlocking doors, re-starting the motor, or activating security systems in the vehicle. Fobs have a small key that is embedded within them which can be used in the event that the fob is not functioning properly.
While some experts suggest keeping a backup key handy to prevent theft, most of the time, your best bet is to go to a dealer. A dealer is able to create a replacement car key fob which is programmed to your vehicle using the VIN number in the file, and also the added reassurance of an electronic backup.
It's important to note that a locksmith can't replace most modern car keys fobs because they require programming equipment that is out of reach of the majority of locksmiths. The cost of replacing the car key fob can be as high as $400, dependent on the manufacturer and model.
Replace the battery first if your key fob isn't functioning correctly. You can find information on how to replace the battery on many companies' websites or in your car's owner manual. Hardware stores and big-box retailers also sell key fob batteries.
Another possibility is that the key fob in your car has stopped working due to a software issue. If this is the case, you might be able fix the issue by resetting the keys on your car in accordance with the instructions included in the owner's manual (or searching for one online).
You can also ask an automotive locksmith to do the reprogramming of your remote fob. This procedure usually takes only a few moments and will reduce the cost of a new key fob.
Smart Keys
It's impossible to imagine anything more stressful than reaching in your bag or pocket to discover you've lost the keys to your car. It can trigger stress, anxiety and even anxiety.
It's a good thing that replacing your car keys aren't as costly or complicated as it used to be. This is especially true if you're using fobs to open and start your car. Fobs can also come with other options, like a trunk opener or remote engine starters, which can make your car easier to enter and drive.
Smart keys are the most advanced key type available, and they provide many benefits for drivers. They activate a proximity detector in the car, which allows you to lock and unlock your door with tapping or pressing a button on your smartphone. lost key of car can also remotely start the engine to warm or cool the interior before entering. Smart keys are standard in many modern cars.
The same technology that makes smart keys more practical also increases the chance of losing them. While there are steps you can take to make sure you don't lose your smart key, such as keeping it close to you or having a backup fob, you will need to call your dealer or locate an auto locksmith who offers fob replacement in order to obtain an additional one.
The good news is that smart keys are designed with specific scenarios in mind. If you forget your keys in the trunk, for instance it will still function for as long as the car battery is charged. Likewise, if you misplace your smart key while on a trip and don't know where it is, the majority of systems will alert the driver that the car is in danger of being locked.
If you're looking for an alternative to your car key fob you can contact a company like Keyway Lock Service to get an additional one quickly and quickly. You can also ask your local car dealer to purchase a new key for you, however this may be more expensive than hiring an auto locksmith to assist you.