Replacing Lost Car Keys
It is a very common issue to lose your car keys. It can be a hassle. The most cost-effective and fastest method to obtain a replacement key is to call an auto locksmith who is specialized in vehicles.
You will not need to provide proof of ownership. You'll save time as well as money by not having to go to the dealer.
Basic Keys
In the past, losing your car keys was not an a major problem. In many instances, it still not. But as automobiles have advanced in technology, as have their keys, and the replacement process for a lost car key can be more difficult and expensive than ever before.
If you've lost your keys or someone has stolen them it is likely that you will find ways to obtain an alternative one, however the exact procedure can differ depending on the type of car you drive and the type of key you have. The process and the cost will vary based on whether you have keys that are fobs or traditional keys.
The traditional key is mechanical, and works by inserting it into the ignition lock cylinder to turn on the car. These keys can be replaced by a locksmith for automotive use, who will usually be able to create a new key immediately. To do this, they'll need proof of ownership such as the registration or title.
Most traditional key sets are also compatible with key fobs which function as remotes that permit you to perform certain functions inside the vehicle. If you want to replace a standard key with a key fob, you'll need to go to an auto locksmith professional who has the equipment to cut the key and then program the code for your specific car model.
You may be able to purchase replacement keys and key fobs for only a fraction of what you would pay your dealer. It is important to know the type of key you have and research before making a purchase online as not all shops have the proper equipment for all car models.
If you have a smart key, which functions like a remote and requires a button to be pressed to start your car, you'll need to visit the dealer for a replacement. These keys are among the most expensive to replace, but they are usually covered under 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, the majority of newer automobiles have transponder keys. This kind of key is equipped with a microchip that needs to be programmed to work. This makes it difficult for thieves to duplicate the key and hot wire.
A transponder key is also called a chip key and derives its name from the electronic chip that is placed inside the head of the key. These keys have become the norm for a lot of modern automobiles, and are designed to protect against vehicle theft by making it impossible to start your car without the proper key. The transponder on the key sends a signal to immobilizer on your car when it is used, and this is what allows it to start.
You can have your transponder keys copied by a locksmith for cars. The process is simple, but the cost will be higher than if you simply needed to get a new non-transponder key made. This is because the locksmith has to restore the key's cylinder cuts and then take the mechanism apart before they can make a duplicate.
Even if you do not have a spare key, your automotive locksmith will be able to create a key that is not transponder-based. This key will permit you to open and operate your car. The locksmith could do this by copying information from the transponder of your lost key onto the blank key. The key will need to be programmed so that it responds to the immobilizer on your car. However, at the very least, you won't need to try to start it.
While a transponder key can help to discourage car theft It's important to remember that no device is foolproof. Even with this technology, thieves have discovered ways to get stolen vehicles to start. If you drive a luxury car or a family sedan, make sure you keep your spare key in a safe place.
Fob Keys
Created to do more than just unlock and start the car, today's advanced key fobs are also security devices and can even be used as thieves deterrents. But all that functionality comes at a price Key fobs are more expensive than the old-fashioned car keys, and are more difficult to replace when lost or damaged.
Fobs transmit radio signals that have encoded codes to a receiver within the vehicle, which performs a function like locking or unlocking doors, starting the engine, and activating the vehicle's security system. Fobs also have a tiny metal key embedded in them that can be used to unlock the doors or close the ignition, in case the fob's key fails to operate properly.
While some experts recommend keeping a backup key in case of theft but, in the majority of cases the best option is to go to a dealer. A dealer is capable of creating a replacement car key fob that's programmed to your car using the VIN number that is on file, and also the added assurance of an actual backup.
It is important to know that a locksmith can't replace all modern car keys fobs due to the fact that they require programming equipment that is beyond the reach of a majority of locksmiths. In fact, the cost of replacing a modern car key fob can run up to $400 or more, depending on the type of car and model.
If your key fob isn't functioning correctly, you should first replace the battery. You can find information on how to replace the battery on many manufacturers' websites or in the owner's manual for your vehicle. Hardware stores and big-box retailers sell key fob batteries.
Another possibility is that your car's key fob has stopped working due to an issue with the software. In that scenario, it may be possible to get it to work again by resetting all of the keys in your car in accordance with the instructions of the owner's manual (or searching for one online).
You can also ask an automotive locksmith to perform a remote reprogramming on your fob. This procedure usually takes only less than a minute and will reduce the expense of purchasing a new key fob.
car keys lost what to do to imagine anything more stressful than reaching in your pocket or bag to discover you've lost your car keys. It can create stress, anxiety and even panic.
Fortunately, replacing your car key isn't as complicated or expensive as it used to be, especially if you have fobs that require a code to open and start the car. Fobs may also have other features like remote engine starters or trunk opener, which allow you to drive and get into a vehicle.
Smart keys are the most advanced key type and offer drivers a great deal of convenience. They activate a proximity detector in the car, which allows you to lock and unlock your door with a tap or button on your phone. You can also remotely start the engine to warm it up or cool down the interior before getting in. A lot of newer cars have smart keys as the default choice.
The same technology that makes smart keys more convenient also increases the likelihood of losing them. You can take steps to prevent losing a smart key by always having it with you, or by having an additional fob. However, if you lose yours, you'll have to contact your dealer or auto locksmith who offers fob replacement services to obtain a replacement.
Smart keys are designed to function in specific situations. If you leave your key in the trunk of your car, it will continue to function for as long as the battery is fully charged. If you have lost your smart key and have no clue as to where it is it will be alerted by the system to the driver that the car is at risk of becoming locked.
You can easily and quickly get a replacement car key fob by contacting a business like Keyway Lock Service. You can contact your local dealer to make you a new key, but it may cost more than hiring an auto locksmith.