Keep an Extra Car Key With You in Case You Lose Yours
It is a smart idea to have an extra key for your vehicle. Place it in a secure location to avoid having to call locksmiths or assistance on the road when you lose keys.
A basic mechanical key may be replaced at the hardware store by a locksmith, or at a dealership. A smart or transponder key however, will have to be paired with your vehicle's immobilizer at the dealership.
Cost
There are ways to minimize costs if you lose your car keys. Find an auto locksmith who is specialized in your vehicle. This is the cheapest option. They'll have the equipment needed to replace your keys and they can also provide other services, such as repair and installation of locks. Other alternatives that are less expensive include roadside assistance, and getting a replacement from your car insurance company. These options are subject to a set of limitations and conditions.
The cost to replace a car key depends on its type and where it was stolen or lost. If you have a standard car key your only expense is the cost of a new key fob. If you own transponder keys or a smart key the cost will be significantly more expensive. Smart keys are proximity sensor-based keys that open doors and begin your vehicle with the press of a single button. These keys are more costly than traditional keys, as they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.
To obtain an alternative key, you'll need the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The VIN number is found on the paperwork for your vehicle or by using a no-cost VIN search tool on the internet. The VIN is a 17-digit code that identifies the make and model of your vehicle. If you don't have your VIN other information could be used to identify your vehicle. For instance the engine type, and the year of manufacture.
You can also find an alternative key that is not made by the same manufacturer as your original one. This will be a more time-consuming and difficult process. It may be possible to purchase an unbranded key on the internet for less than what you would pay for a genuine one from your car dealer. This is only available to cars that have an unlocked trunk. It will not allow you to use the power door lock or alarm system.
It is important to have a spare car key in the event that you lose yours. A spare key will save you the trouble and expense of contacting an auto dealer, particularly when the locksmith you are dealing with isn't equipped with the programming tools for your vehicle.
Security
In the past, misplacing or losing your car keys wasn't that huge of a problem. You could visit an auto dealer or locksmith and have keys replaced without a lot of hassle. But, as cars have evolved in terms of technology as have their keys and the process of replacing them has become more difficult.
The first thing you need to do is determine what kind of key you have. You can find this information by looking at the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle. It is a 17-digit number that includes numbers and letters with the exception of letters I, O and Q. It is also found on the back of your car's title or registration card. This number is unique to your vehicle. It is required to reprogram the new key to work with your car.
Transponder keys can be found in the majority of cars. They look like traditional keys, but contain a chip in the handle which communicates with the car's computer system. This reduces the possibility of theft by making it impossible to start the car without a genuine key. This type of key needs higher-end technology and is harder to duplicate, so you'll need an locksmith with the right equipment.
You can also utilize a Faraday box or bag for your key fobs. These devices isolate the key's frequency from outside sources, which makes it difficult for thieves to duplicate them. These devices can be purchased at your local hardware store for about $20 or on the internet. Remember, however, that this method isn't foolproof.
You'll have to take your smart keys to a manufacturer or dealer to replace it. They have proximity sensors that let you unlock your car and then start it by pressing a button. They're also more expensive to replace because they require specialized tools and knowledge.
A professional locksmith will be able to create a replacement for you, but they may have erase the current programming from the car's system in order to accomplish this. This can be accomplished by following the steps in the owner's manual.
Time is a factor.
Car keys that are replacements are ideal to keep one in the event that you lose your keys. The time required to acquire them can differ based on the kind of vehicle and the type of key you have. The process of making a standard key is easy and cost-effective. You can also do it at your local hardware shop. If you have to replace a key fob, or a transponder chip replaced, the process may take more time.
You can either go to a locksmith to get a costlier solution, or buy one from a dealer. Both options can be used to replace the lost key. However the dealer has the most experience in programming the new key so it can be used with your vehicle. The dealer will also be able to access your vehicle's security systems which can stop theft.
Another option is to buy an unprogrammed key online and have it programmed by locksmith. This is a risky decision as you might end up with the wrong key that isn't suitable for your vehicle. Additionally, the key needs to be programmed to the vehicle using the information found on your VIN. This information is available on your car's title or registration.
If you're in a hurry and require to replace your car keys you can call for an emergency roadside assistance service or search for an auto locksmith in your area. Finding the right service can save you time and money in the long time. Contact your car insurance provider for additional discounts on this service. However, you must remember that this plan does not cover all repair costs. For more information it is essential to go through the conditions and terms of your service. It is better to get a replacement car key prior to losing it, as this will cut down on the cost and difficulties of replacing it. This will also save you lots of time.
Safety
Many people discover keys to their car a source of frustration. Sometimes, they are lost, while other times, they can be damaged or bent until they stop functioning correctly. This is why it's crucial to take the time to perform regular maintenance on your key fob. You can be certain that it functions properly when you need to. Keep an extra key on you to ensure that you can continue driving even if your key fob is damaged.
There are many ways to obtain a new replacement car key dependent on the kind of key you own. You can purchase a traditional key for a cylinder from a locksmith in your area, for instance. These keys are usually less expensive and look just like your old car key. These keys do not contain chips and therefore can't be used to unlock your vehicle or to start the motor. Another alternative is to visit the dealership and purchase a replacement key. They have the tools needed to repair the cut of the key and program it to activate your car's security systems.
car key replacement can fail and cause your car to not respond to the new key. This is a common problem with older cars, and it can occur when the key fob is damaged by water or other extreme conditions. To fix this issue it is possible to visit a reputable locksmith to replace the chip. A trustworthy auto locksmith will find the code to your vehicle and replace the chip without needing to disassemble the lock.
You can also attempt to replace the part yourself, if you've got the appropriate tools and know how to use them. This is a risky option, so it's better to let an expert. If you're tech-savvy you could also look up online tutorials on how to complete the task yourself. This is a simple and cost-effective alternative to calling an auto dealer or locksmith.