Getting a Key Replacement Car Key Isn't As Costly As You Think
Everyone has a friend who is always losing their car keys. Finding a replacement key, or key fob doesn't need to be as costly as many people think.
Start by checking your owner's manual to see whether you can reset your key fob yourself (usually involves pressing a couple of buttons in a certain sequence). Examine your insurance policy or bumper to bumper warranty coverage for the cost of an entirely new key fob.
Keys stolen or lost
In the past it wasn't a huge problem to lose your car keys. It was simple to replace the lost or stolen car key if you had one. It was possible to do this at any hardware store, locksmith shop, or even a dealer for cars. However, advances in key fob technology have made it much harder to steal a car, as a result it's becoming more expensive to replace a stolen or lost car key.
There are many different kinds of keys used in cars and how you can get a new one depends on the kind of key you've lost or stolen. If you have a classic double-edged traditional key, you can get the replacement from any hardware store or locksmiths for less than 20 dollars. If your key is equipped with an embedded chip, or is integrated into a smart key, key fob or switchblade key, you'll have to purchase a new key from the dealer.
With a purely mechanical key locksmiths can duplicate the key by selecting the correct key blank for your year, make and model, and then tracing the original contours with an on-site machine. For most models, this only takes a few minutes for a professional locksmith to complete.
If your key has an embedded smart chip or switchblade, you'll have to take it to the dealership. You'll also have to show proof of ownership. The dealer will then connect the chip of your computer in your new key to your vehicle. It may take a few days, depending on whether the dealer has the key in stock or is able to order it.
Contact the police if suspect your car was stolen or you have lost your key and are unsure whether it was taken by another person. They can verify the serial number on your key stolen and help you locate it. Bring your backup key to the dealership or locksmith to reprogram the ignition and locks on your vehicle to ensure that it is not used by anyone else. If you do not have a backup, it's recommended to make a claim on your home insurance first.
Damaged Keys
Contact a locksmith right away if you are having trouble opening or launching your vehicle because your key has been damaged. A professional will come to your rescue and take care of the issue without causing further damage to the lock or key. They'll be able repair the cuts to the key so that it will fit inside the lock, and then match the key with the proper transponder that is appropriate for your car, and then program it into your vehicle using a special tool.
If your key is damaged most of the time the reason is that it was not properly inserted into the lock, or it was bent or twisted in the wrong direction for too long. Some people report that their keys were damaged after they dropped them or put it on a hot seat in the car. Keys can also be damaged by an electrical surge or fire.
It's important to know that only a locksmith with a certificate can repair your damaged key. If you try to use a cheap, generic replacement key, it'll most likely not function and end with a higher cost in the long run.
auto key replacement who is certified can make a new key that's made according to the exact specifications of your vehicle. You can save money over the retail price by finding a locksmith near you.
If you have a more advanced key, like one that is smart, you'll need to visit the dealer to get it replaced. You'll be asked for proof of vehicle ownership and the dealer will be required to pair your new key electronically to your car. This can take a couple of days, and will cost you. You may want to call roadside assistance if you're on an extremely tight budget. They'll tow your vehicle to the nearest dealer that has the key type you need and arrange for it. This will reduce the cost of towing and the cost of a new key but it could take longer than a locksmith.
Keyless Entry Systems
If you're a vehicle owner with keyless entry and you need to replace the lost or stolen key fob is more expensive than a standard key. This is because fobs contain a special chip that identifies radio signals sent by the vehicle to open its doors. Fobs are generally more secure than regular keys because they are only activated within just a few feet of the vehicle and do not have any metal exposed to trigger a door lock. This makes them harder to steal and less prone to being altered.
Keyless entry systems offer a number of benefits that make them popular in a variety of settings including residential homes and commercial office buildings. These systems can be monitored and managed remotely, allowing companies to grant or deny access to employees and visitors by a couple of clicks. Audit trails with detailed audit trailing are also available for each user, which helps companies avoid liability and prove due diligence in the event of a security breach.
Regular software updates will ensure that your keyless system is functioning effectively. This will help protect your security from hackers and other unauthorized intrusions. It is also crucial to perform regular maintenance of the system, which will keep it operating efficiently and effectively.
Some of the features that distinguish a keyless system from traditional systems are advanced encryption, smartphone compatibility and biometric authentication. A fingerprint scanning system, for example, can ensure that only authorized people have access to vehicles and other sensitive assets. A proximity badge reader, on the other hand can verify authenticity prior to unlocking a front door.
The remote keyless system (RKE) is the most common keyless entry system used in automobiles today. It utilizes an integrated transmitter in the key fob, or an ignition module, to unlock the doors of the car. The system can be activated by pressing the button on the key fob, or using a keypad inside the car. Some keyless entry systems feature a motorized system which unlocks the car door when the correct code has been entered on a touchscreen.
Transponder Keys
A transponder car keys contains an electronic microchip that is integrated into the head of the key. Also referred to as chip keys, they are made to prevent vehicle theft and immobilizer system malfunctions by sending an unique identification code to the vehicle's antenna ring when they are inserted into the ignition lock cylinder. The code is a specific combination of numbers and letters that can only be read by the car's transmitter when the key is inserted into the ignition and turned to ON.
The transponder in your car key has non-volatile storage, which means that it keeps information even when you remove the key from the ignition. A skilled locksmith can program your car's computer to detect the unique code sent by the transponder, and match it to the immobilizer's information. During this process the locksmith will ensure that they have the appropriate keys for your car's model and make. Some brands require that a locksmith use specialized tools to clone the key from your car, while other brands allow you to program the key yourself using the help of a manual and some basic tools.
The transponder key doesn't contain a battery, but the information stored on the microchip is powered by radio signals that are transmitted by the car's immobilizer when the key is near the receiver. The transmissions are weak that a standard key copying machine cannot duplicate the key.
A car transponder may be more expensive, but it gives additional security and can discourage thieves. If you are concerned about your vehicle being stolen and don't like the hassle of returning it, a flat metal key may be cheaper. In any case, it's essential to speak with a professional locksmith in the NYC area who is aware of the particular requirements of your car key. Depending on your needs they might recommend either a transponder key, or a non-transponder key. This is why it's a good idea to work with an auto locksmith that offers 24-hour emergency services in the Five Boroughs.