Getting a Key Replacement Car Key Isn't As Costly As You Think
Everyone knows someone who is constantly losing their car keys. It's not as costly as people think to get a new key or fob.
Check your owner's guide to determine if your key fob is resettable by you (usually requires pressing a couple of keys in a certain order). Then, look over your car insurance policy or bumper-to-bumper warranty coverage to determine whether it covers the cost of replacing it.
Keys stolen or lost
In the past the days of lost car keys wasn't too big of an issue. It was simple to replace a lost or stolen car key if there was one. You could get it at any hardware store, locksmith store, or even a car dealer. However, advancements in technology for key fobs have made it harder to steal a car, and, as a result it's now more expensive to replace a lost or stolen car key.
There are several different types of keys used in cars and how you can get the new one is contingent on the type of key you've lost or stolen. If you're fortunate enough to have a classic double-edged classic key, you'll likely get a replacement from a hardware store or locksmith for less than $20. If your key is embedded with a chip, or is incorporated into a key fob, switchblade or smart key, you'll require a new key from the dealer.
A locksmith can duplicate the mechanical key by picking the correct key blank for the year model, make, and year of your vehicle, and then tracing its original contours on the spot. For the majority of models, it only takes just a few minutes for a professional locksmith to complete.
If key replacement car is smart or a switchblade key it is required to bring it to the dealer and provide evidence of ownership. The dealer will then pair the computer chip inside your new key with your vehicle. It could take a few weeks, dependent on whether the dealer has your key in stock.
If your car is stolen, or if your key is missing and you're unsure if that it was stolen by someone else, contact the police. They can verify the serial number of your key stolen and help you find it. Bring your backup key to the dealership or locksmith so that they can reprogram the ignition and the locks of your car to prevent unauthorized usage. If you don't own a backup key, it's recommended to first file a claim through your insurance company for your home.
Keys that are damaged Keys
If you're having a hard opening or starting your car due to the fact that the key is damaged, you need to call a locksmith right away. A professional locksmith will be able resolve the issue without harming the lock or key. They will be able to repair the key's cuts, so that it fits inside the lock. They will then match the key with the correct transponder and program it into your car using an instrument that is specifically designed for this purpose.
If your keys are damaged most of the time it's because it was incorrectly inserted into the lock, or it was bent or twisted in the wrong direction for a long time. Some people have reported that their keys have been damaged when they dropped them or left them on a hot seat in the car. Keys can also be damaged by an electrical surge or fire.
It's important to note that only a locksmith certified can fix your damaged key. If you try to use a generic, cheap replacement key, it will likely stop working and will end in costing you more in the long run.
A locksmith with a license can create a new key for you that is made according to the exact specifications of your car. They can also save you a lot of money over the dealer price, so it's definitely worth your while to find locksmiths near you.
If you own an advanced key (like one that is smart) you'll be required to bring it to the dealer to have it replaced. You'll need to provide proof of ownership, and they'll have to connect the new key to your vehicle. This can take a few days and can be costly. If you're on a tight budget you might want to think about calling roadside assistance instead. They'll take your vehicle to the nearest dealership that has the type of key you require and will order it for you. You'll save money by towing however, the process could take longer than using a locksmith.
Keyless Entry Systems
It can be more costly to replace a lost or missing fob for a key if you are using a keyless system. This is because fobs contain an electronic chip that recognizes radio signals generated by the vehicle to activate its doors. Fobs tend to be more secure than keys because they can only be activated within a few feet from the vehicle, and there's no exposed metal that could trigger a lock. This makes them more difficult to be stolen and more resistant to being tampered with.
Keyless entry systems are a common feature in a variety of settings including residential and commercial office buildings. They can be monitored and managed remotely, which enables companies to deny or restrict access to visitors and employees by a couple of clicks. The audit trail of each user is also available which helps reduce the risk of liability and prove due diligence in the event of an attack on security.
A good method to ensure that your keyless entry system functioning properly is to update the software regularly, which will prevent your security from being vulnerable to hackers and other illegal intrusions. Maintaining the system will ensure that it runs effectively and efficiently.
Some of the features that set a keyless system apart from other systems include advanced encryption, smartphone compatibility and biometric authentication. A fingerprint scanner can, for instance, ensure that only authorized people are able to access vehicles and other assets that are considered to be sensitive. A proximity badge reader however can verify the identity of the person who is unlocking the front door.
The most popular type of keyless entry system found in automobiles today is the remote keyless entry (RKE) system that uses the transmitter embedded into a car key fob or integrated into the car's ignition to unlock the doors. The system can be activated by pressing the key fob's button or a keypad within the vehicle. Certain keyless entry systems feature a motorized system which unlocks the car door after the correct code has been entered on a touchscreen.
Transponder Keys
A transponder car key contains an electronic microchip that is integrated inside the head of the key. Also known as chip keys, they are designed to protect against theft of vehicles and immobilizer system malfunctions by sending an unique identification code to the vehicle's antenna ring when inserted into the ignition lock cylinder. The code is a specific combination of letters and numbers that can only be recognized by the car's transmitter once the key is put in the ignition and rotated into the ON position.
The transponder on 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 the computer in your car to detect the unique code sent by the transponder and compare it to the immobilizer's information. During this process the locksmith will make sure that they have the correct key blanks for your vehicle's model and the model. Certain brands require that the locksmith use specialized equipment to clone the key you have already used from your car, while others can be programmed by the owner with the help of the manual and some basic tools.
Transponder keys don't have batteries however they are powered by radio signals sent from the immobilizer of the car when the key is close to the receiver. The transmissions are so weak that a standard key copying machine cannot duplicate the key.
A car transponder is more expensive, but it offers added security and can deter thieves. However, if you're worried about the possibility of your vehicle being stolen and don't really care about the inconvenience of getting it back the simple flat metal key might be more affordable. It's important that you consult a locksmith in NYC who is familiarized with the car key requirements. They might recommend the use of a transponder or non-transponder key based on your requirements. This is why it's a good idea to partner with an auto locksmith that offers 24 hour emergency service in the Five Boroughs.