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car key replacement near me For Cars Losing car keys happens to the most seasoned of us. They can disappear from pockets on coats or couch cushions and then be discovered at the worst possible time. Fortunately keys for replacement for cars aren't as hard to get as they once were. Here are a few of your options for replacing keys: auto locksmiths, hardware stores and dealerships. Keys stolen or lost Car keys can get stolen or lost in various ways. Sometimes they break, but other times they are misplaced or get placed in a location where they can be easily found. Sometimes, they wear down to the point that they no longer function properly. Whatever the case it is recommended to keep a spare car key order to avoid the hassle and expense of getting one replaced. Contact your local locksmith right away if your keys. You can usually get a replacement key at less than what you'd pay at a dealer. Locksmiths can also program features of your vehicle like hands-free boot opening, on the on the spot. Before you call, be sure to get your VIN number for your vehicle it is needed to find the exact model and year of the vehicle to create an original key. You can find it on your dashboard or in the title or registration paperwork of your vehicle. Depending on the type of key you have It could be more costly to purchase a new one at the dealership. Dealerships will track your details to ensure that you get the replacement key as soon as possible. They will also be able to provide you with an authentic key from a factory that is with the most recent security features in. On the other side, if you own a standard turn-key type of key, it will be cheaper to go to a local auto locksmith. Locksmiths can make a replacement key for much less than the dealer, and they are often able to come to you onsite. The only problem with this is if the keys are transponder-style that means they contain a chip inside them that is programmed to work with a specific vehicle. Locksmiths can usually create keys for you however, they are not able to program them. You will need bring it in to your dealer to get it programmed. Fob Keys If you have a fob that allows you to start and open your vehicle, or the fob is broken it is time to get a new one. Fob keys are available from the locksmith, dealerships and in some instances, you can purchase one on the internet. The cost is based on the model and make of your vehicle as well as whether or not it is equipped with a transponder. A basic fob, which emits a signal that opens the doors and begins the engine, can usually be repaired at the dealer or by locksmiths for less than $300. A more advanced key that also has an embedded transponder chip to confirm that the driver is the owner may be more costly, especially for late-model cars. Keep an extra fob or key with you at all times to save money on replacements. If you're unable to carry a spare along with you then ask the dealer to include two sets of keys as part of the purchase price, or add a third set to the order to avoid paying a larger cost later. There are also aftermarket, laser-cut keys online for a much lower cost than the ones sold by the dealer. Some sellers online can program your new key fob, but this may invalidate the warranty of the original key and could be illegal in certain states. Try recharge or reset the battery before you decide to replace the broken fob. A dead battery could be the reason behind an unresponsive keyfob or isn't programmed. You can also adjust the buttons of a fob if they are stuck or broken. If these steps do not work, you may have to go to a dealership unless an automotive locksmith has the required equipment to program the latest models. Dealers are usually the most expensive, however they also have the deepest understanding of car technology and systems. They may take some time to repair your car and they are not guaranteed to provide the lowest price. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, or chip keys are a new type of key with a computer chip embedded in it. The chip transmits an encoded signal to the vehicle every time the key cylinder is inserted. The code is then used by the car to start the engine and unlock the doors. These are a lot more difficult to steal and can be a great way to stop theft. A professional locksmith can cut an ordinary replacement transponder key (chip) for your vehicle at a price that is lower than what a dealer would charge. It is important to note that you'll still require the key to be programmed to match the code in your vehicle's ECM if you are replacing an existing key. If you already have an original transponder, you can have a copy made. You will not be able to start your vehicle, as many cars have immobilizer systems which require a specific key to function. In the past, it was easy to hot wire a car. This process involves running two wires from the ignition to a source of power in another location, like an apartment building. The car will start when the starter is turned on. Transponder keys make it more difficult for thieves, as they need the correct key to transmit the encoded signals from the chip on key to the ignition system of the car. This makes the key difficult to steal and if your vehicle has an immobilizer, it will not start when you use an untransponderable key. It is therefore important to keep a spare transponder in your purse or pocket just in case. If you lose your spare key, you'll need to call your local locksmith or dealer to copy the key you lost to start your car again. Dealers will charge you more for this service, as they have exclusive rights to manufacture keys for certain car brands. Smart Keys Keys You might have smart keys when you drive an older model of vehicle. Sometimes called proximity keys, fobs or remotes, these devices let drivers unlock their cars and start them without the need for a physical key. The technology has been around since the 1990s, but was a feature that was mostly found in automobiles at the time. Basically, smart keys communicate with the vehicle via a wireless signal through radio waves. These signals are encrypted and only your vehicle can read the signals. Some keys include a button to activate your car's ignition or lock. Other keys may also have GPS technology that determines the location of your vehicle if stolen. The key can be a small fob, or placed inside the handle. If you lose your key you'll need to visit your dealership or auto locksmith for help in replacing it. Smart keys are different from traditional keys and can only be replaced by a dealer. The cost will vary based on the type and make of vehicle you own, as well as your key. For instance, a standard key that has a lock-and-key mechanism is usually priced between $10 to $12 to replace. Transponder keys, on the other, are likely to be more expensive. In general, you'll have to bring your spare smart key along with evidence of ownership to the dealer of your vehicle to have it replaced. Some experts warn that smart keys can be hacked if someone is aware of what they are trying to find. For instance the signals sent by smart keys are low-frequency compared to those of other devices, which makes them easy for someone to pick up at a gas pump. This kind of hack could even work from an extended distance, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. In any case the use of smart keys is becoming more common and are a lot more practical than the older versions. They protect cars, give owners peace of mind, and assist to keep them organized. You should consider investing in one, but keep a spare key handy just in case.