Keys Replacement For Cars
If you own a basic mechanical key, you should be able to get a replacement at any hardware store for relatively cheap. However, the key must be programmed by a locksmith or dealership.
Smart keys are more complicated and require a visit to a car dealer to be paired with your car. These types of keys are usually expensive but some insurance companies will cover the cost.
Mechanical Keys
You can still purchase mechanical car keys which you put into the ignition lock for your vehicle to start. If your car is equipped with one of these keys, it's cheap to replace the fob and key (if lost or stolen).
A locksmith can make the basic key for you at a less cost than what you would buy from a dealership. You can also ask a neighbour or a friend who knows how to program transponder keys (which are cheaper than the keys made by the factory) to make you a spare key and then program it. It is essential to have a spare since modern cars won't be able to start if a key without the proper chip is used.
Transponder keys appear like mechanical keys, however they have a hidden electronic chip inside the base of their plastic shape that communicates with your vehicle's computer system. Your car will recognize the code in the chip and accept it, but it will not start if another code is utilized.
If the spare key you have has a chip that is programmed, it will have to be programmed by a dealer. The dealership will require a special machine for both cutting and programming the key. These machines are only available at certain dealerships and it is unlikely that a locksmith have the equipment needed to make a key using transponder.
Keys with remotes can be costly to replace, particularly in the event that you need a spare. If you only have the key shank missing and an operational replacement fob, you could try reprogramming your fob on your own. However, it can be time-consuming and challenging. If you've lost the entire fob and key however you should seek out a dealer as the best option.
Other kinds of car keys require more special skills to replace. cost for replacement car key includes flip keys and smart keys. They are more complicated and are usually replaced at the dealership. Some key fobs feature keys that are spring-loaded and fold into the enclosure and opens a door or is operated by a proximity sensor to open and start your car.
Transponder Keys
If your car is built in the last 10 years or so you're likely to use a transponder key system. The keys have the microchip as well as an electronic receiver that is programmed to communicate with start your car.
Transponder keys are an excellent method to deter theft since they require two components for the car to start which is the transmitter (transponder) inside the key and the receiver connected to your immobilizer system. The car will not start without both the key and the immobilizer system.
The key chips are programmed with a serial number that is unique to your vehicle. The serial number of the key is then sent to the immobilizer of the car, and then checked to match. If it does the engine starts, it will. The only thing that could defeat this security feature is a device that can detect the chip and match it to another car.
You'll have to find an locksmith with the tools to reprogram your key. Some car dealerships provide this service as well but they are generally more expensive than a independent locksmith due to their expenses.
Getting a new car key with a chip inside it is a complex procedure. The key needs to be cut on a specific machine to ensure that it has the right tracks that can be used to program the key to your car. It requires specialized software, as well as the right key cutter to cut it properly.
Some of the simpler chip keys can be copied at a variety of auto parts stores, but you need to be aware of the serial number of the original key to ensure the proper information is being programmed into the new key. Many people make a mistake going to their dealer in search of the clone of a chip key only to end up paying inflated prices.
Laser-Cut Keys
Laser-cut keys are also referred as a sidewinder key due to the distinctive winding cut on the key shank. They add an additional layer of security to your vehicle. These keys are a great security measure against theft of your vehicle because they require specialized equipment to duplicate.
They also come with built-in chips to prevent the copying of keys by unauthorized people from starting your vehicle. They also typically have a unique code on the key, which must be programmed to your specific vehicle in order to unlock and start it. This extra layer of security will safeguard your investment, and deter thieves from attempting to steal your car for parts or to resell it.
In terms of design Laser-cut keys are different from conventional mechanical cut keys, as they have smaller grooves that have been carved out of the key. They also have a larger key shaft which is an excellent indication that it's not a regular car key. Locksmiths usually use milling machines to cut keys. This tool is similar to a drill bit, and it's designed to cut metal in very precise angles.
These are among the most secure keys you can purchase for your car, as they're extremely difficult to duplicate and can only be cut by a dealer or a certified locksmith. Unlike traditional keys, they're made from a small piece of steel that is made into a code, and then cut using a laser at the factory. This type of key is able to be able to withstand a great deal of wear and tear and is one of the best options for protecting your vehicle.
The key can be folded into the fob, or it can be removed by pressing a button. These kinds of keys are used extensively in German cars and offer an additional layer of protection against car thieves. The cylinder is robust and difficult to break into, making it extremely difficult for thieves to pick or pick-lock the car.
Smart Keys Keys
Unlike the traditional single piece of metal, smart keys utilize radio-frequency identification, or RFID, to communicate with the car. They are equipped with a chip that has an individual code, which is encoded on every key. The key transmits a message to the onboard computer in your vehicle every time you open the doors or open the trunk. The computer will then prompt the appropriate frequency to allow you to start your vehicle.
The smart key's chip includes a variety of security features that protect against theft. First the key emits a very low-frequency signal which isn't received by any receiver other than your car. If the computer onboard detects this signal, it will display another one that is a unique sequence that only your vehicle will understand. This will stop a tech-savvy criminal from using a pulse generator in order to "fool the system" and make the key work on other vehicles.
In addition to locking and starting the car, certain smart keys come with additional features like storing specific driver preferences remotely opening windows, the sunroof, among others. These features can be accessed by activating the proximity sensor on the key fob by pressing a button, or, in some instances you can do this by twisting a small piece of metal inside the key.
Certain key fobs can be opened by holding the dead key in a slot, or by placing it in proximity to an inductive coil that is located on the dashboard. Certain key fobs come with mechanical (fully emergency) key blade that is inside the key.
Replacing a smart lock usually requires a visit to the dealership, who will either have the replacement in stock or order it for you. The dealer will also need to program your new key so that it recognizes your car. However, you can also visit a locksmith to have your replacement key fob programmed and replaced. A locksmith may cost more than a dealer but he or she can do the job quicker and cheaper.