7 Tips About Replacement Keys For Car That Nobody Will Share With You Replacement Keys For Cars

It is a common occurrence for everyone. They can disappear from pockets on coats or on couch cushions, only to be found at the worst possible moment.

Luckily, replacement keys for cars aren't as difficult to obtain as they were. Here are a few alternatives to replace keys: auto locksmiths, dealers and hardware stores.

Keys that have been stolen or lost are

There are a myriad of ways car keys can be stolen or lost. They could break, be lost, or be left in a location where they can be easily found. Sometimes, they just wear down to the point where they no longer function properly. Whatever the case, it is always an excellent idea to have a spare car key order to avoid the expense and hassle of getting one replaced.

If you've lost your key, the best option is to contact your local auto locksmith as soon as possible. They are likely to make you an alternative key for less than it would cost you at an auto dealer. The locksmith may also be able to program your car's features, such as hands-free boot release, on the moment of the call.

Before calling, make sure that you have the VIN number for your vehicle that is required to find the exact year and model of the vehicle in order to create new keys. It is located on your dashboard or in the registration or title paperwork of your vehicle.

Depending on the kind of key you have, it might be more costly to buy a new one from a dealer. Dealerships keep on top of this information and will be capable of obtaining an updated key in a short time. They will also be able to provide you with an authentic key from a factory that is with all the latest security features that are built into.

If you have a standard lock that is a turn-key, it's cheaper to visit a local auto locksmith. Locksmiths can make an replacement key for less than the dealer and often, they will visit you on the spot.

The only exception is if you have transponder keys, which are programmed to work for a specific vehicle. A locksmith will usually be capable of making keys for you, but they will not be able to program it, and you'll have to bring it to a dealership to have this done.

Fob Keys

If your car is equipped with a fob key to open and start the car, you need replacement when it fails or is lost. Fob keys can be replaced by the dealership or a locksmith, or in some cases you can order one on the internet. The cost depends on the model and brand of your vehicle and whether or not it has transponders.

A basic fob that sends an indication to open the doors and start the engine can be replaced by a locksmith or dealer for less than 300 dollars. A key that has an embedded transponder chip to prove that the owner of the key or a more sophisticated key, can be more expensive. This is particularly true for late model cars.


The best way to save on fobs and keys that need replacement is to always carry an extra set with you. If you don't have the funds to carry around an extra set of keys request the dealer to add two sets of keys to the purchase price or to add a third to the order. This will help you save from having to pay higher costs later. You can purchase laser-cut keys online at a lower price than those sold by dealers. Some sellers on the internet will program the new key fob, but this could void the warranty on the original key and could be illegal in some states.

Try recharging or resetting the battery before deciding to replace the broken fob. A dead battery is often the reason for keys that don't start or isn't programmed. It's also possible that the buttons on a fob could become stuck or damaged and adjusting them can solve the issue. If none of these methods work, a dealer may be the only option, in the event that you cannot find a locksmith for your vehicle that has the programming equipment to work on the latest models. Generally, dealers are the most expensive option, but they also have the best knowledge of the car's systems and technology. They can take a while to repair your car and they're not sure of offering the best price.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, or chip keys are a type of key that has a computer chip embedded in it. The chip will send an encoded signal to the vehicle every time the key cylinder is inserted. The car will use this code to start the engine and open the doors. These are a lot more than a challenge to steal and are a great way to stop theft.

A professional locksmith for automotive can cut an inexpensive replacement transponder (chip) for your car at a price that is lower than what the dealer will charge. It is crucial to keep in mind that even if you replace an old key, you'll require it to be programmed to match the ECM code of your car.

If you already have an original transponder you can have a copy made. This will not allow you to start your car however, as most automobiles are equipped with immobilizer systems which require a specific key to be used to function.

In the past, it was simple to hot-wire a car. This involves running two wires from the car's ignition to a power source in another location, such as an apartment building. The car will start when the starter is switched on. However, transponder keys make it more difficult for thieves to do this as the thief needs the correct key in order to transmit the coded signal from the chip inside the key to the car's ignition system.

If your car has an immobilizer, it will not start if you've got no transponder. Therefore, it is important to keep a spare transponder in your pocket or purse just in case. If car key fob replacements have lost your spare key, then you will have to call your local locksmith for automotive or dealer to duplicate the key that was lost in order to start your car again. A dealer will also charge a fee for this service since they often have the exclusive rights to produce keys for specific kinds of vehicles.

Smart Keys

There is a chance that you have a smart key when you drive a more recent model of vehicle. They are often called fobs, proximity keys or remotes, these devices let drivers unlock their vehicles and start them without using the physical key. The technology has been around since the 1990s, but was a feature that was mostly found in automobiles of the time.

Smart keys communicate with vehicles by sending the radio wireless wave. These signals are encrypted, and only your vehicle can read the signals. Based on the key you have that you have, it may come with the button that turns on the ignition or locks of your car, and some also have built-in GPS technology that tracks your vehicle's location if ever stolen.

The key can be a small fob or placed inside the handle. In either case, if you lose it you'll need to go to your dealer or auto locksmith for assistance in replacing it. This is because smart keys aren't like your regular keys, and only the car dealer can replace them.

The cost will depend on the make and type of vehicle you own as well as the model of your key. For instance, a standard key that uses a lock-and-key mechanism is typically priced between $10-$12 to replace. A transponder key, on contrary, could be a bit more costly. It is generally necessary to bring your spare smart key and evidence of ownership to your dealer in order to replace it.

Some experts warn that smart keys can be hacked by someone who knows what they are looking for. For instance, the signals transmitted by smart keys are low-frequency when compared to other devices, which makes them easy for someone to pick up at a gas pump. This kind of hack may even operate from the distance according to How Stuff Works Electronics.

In all likelihood smart keys are becoming more popular and are a lot more practical than traditional keys. They secure cars and offer peace of mind and help owners to stay organized. It's a good idea to invest in one of these, but make sure that you have a backup key on hand, just in case.