Getting a Key Replacement Car Key Isn't As Costly As You Think
Everyone knows someone who is constantly losing their car keys. Getting a replacement key or key fob does not have to be as expensive as many people think.
Go through key replacements to see if the key fob can be reset by yourself (usually involves pressing a few keys in a particular order). Check your car insurance policy or bumper-to-bumper warranty to determine if it will cover the cost of replacing it.
Keys that were stolen or lost are not found
In the past the days of lost car keys wasn't too big of an issue. It was simple to replace the lost or stolen car key if there was one. You could get it at any hardware store, locksmith shop, or even a dealer for cars. However, advances in technology for key fobs 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 replacement key car of keys that are used in cars and how you can get a new one will depend on the kind of key you've lost or stolen. If you have a classic double-edged traditional key, you can find an alternative from any hardware store or locksmiths for less than $20. If your key is embedded with a chip or is incorporated into a key fob, switchblade, or smart key, you will need to purchase a new key from the dealer.
A locksmith can duplicate the mechanical key by picking the appropriate key blank for the year, make, and model of your vehicle and tracing its original contours in the field. This only takes a professional time of a few minutes for most models.
If your key has an embedded smart chip or switchblade, you'll need bring it to the dealership. You'll also have to show proof of ownership. The dealer will then pair the computer chip inside your new key to your vehicle. It could take a few weeks, dependent on whether the dealer has your key in stock.
If your car has been stolen, or if your key has gone missing and you're not sure that it was stolen by someone else, you should call the police. They can verify the serial numbers on your keys that were stolen and help you locate it. Bring your backup key to the dealership or locksmith to reprogram the ignition and locks of your car to prevent unauthorized usage. If you don't have a backup, it's recommended to make a claim on your home insurance first.
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 an emergency locksmith. A professional will come to your rescue and resolve the issue without causing further damage to the key or lock. They'll be able to restore the cuts on the keys so it can fit into your lock, then they'll match the key to the appropriate transponder for your vehicle, and then program it into your vehicle with a specific tool.
If your keys are damaged most of the time it's because it was not properly inserted into the lock or because it was bent or twisted in the wrong direction for too long. Some people report their keys getting damaged because they've dropped them or left them on the floor of a hot car. A power surge or fire could also cause damage to the key.
It's important to note that only a locksmith who is certified can repair your damaged key. If you attempt to use a generic, cheap replacement key, it'll most likely not function and end with a higher cost in the end.
A locksmith who is certified can create keys that match the exact specifications of your vehicle. You can save a lot on the cost of a dealer key by finding a locksmith near you.
If you have an advanced key (like a smart key) then you'll need to bring it to the dealer for replacement. You'll have to provide proof of ownership, and they'll have to connect the new key with your vehicle. This can take several days and can be expensive. If you're on a tight budget, you may want to think about calling roadside assistance instead. They'll tow your car to the nearest dealer that has the key type you require and then make the purchase for you. This will save you money on towing and the cost of a new key however, it may take longer than an locksmith.
Keyless Entry Systems
If you're a car owner with keys that are keyless replacing the lost or stolen key fob can be more expensive than a standard key. Fobs have a special chip that recognizes radio signals sent by the vehicle to unlock the doors. Fobs are more secure than keys as they only activate within a few inches of the vehicle, and there's no metal in the vicinity that could activate locks. This makes them more difficult to steal and less prone to tampering.
Keyless entry systems have many advantages that make them a popular choice in a variety of locations including residential homes and commercial office buildings. These systems can be controlled and monitored remotely, which enables businesses to grant or revoke access for employees and visitors with just a few clicks. The audit trail of each user is also accessible which helps reduce the risk of liability and prove due diligence in case of an attack on security.
An effective method to ensure that your keyless entry system working well is to upgrade the software regularly to prevent your security from being exposed to hackers and other unauthorised intrusions. It's also important to maintain regular maintenance of the system, which will keep it running smoothly and reliably.
Some of the features that distinguish a keyless system from other systems include advanced encryption, smartphone compatibility and biometric authentication. A fingerprint scanning system, for example, can ensure that only authorized personnel are able to access vehicles and other sensitive assets. A proximity badge reader however can confirm authenticity prior to unlocking a front door.
The remote keyless system (RKE) is the most commonly used keyless entry system in cars of today. It utilizes a transmitter integrated into a key fob, or an ignition module to unlock the doors of the car. The system can be activated using a key fob button or a keypad within the vehicle. Additionally, certain keyless entry systems come with a motorized system that unlocks the door after the correct code is entered into the touchscreen panel.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are electronic microchips that are built into the head. Also referred to chip keys, they are designed to guard against theft of vehicle and immobilizer system failures through sending an unique identification code to the vehicle's antenna ring when it is inserted into the ignition lock cylinder. The code is a combination of letters and numbers that can only be read by the car's transmitter once the key has been placed in the ignition and the key has been turned on.
The transponder inside the key of your car has non-volatile memory. That means it keeps the information even after you remove it from the ignition. A skilled locksmith can program your car's computer to detect the unique code sent by the transponder, and match it with the immobilizer's data. During this process, the locksmith will verify that they have the correct keys for your car's model and the model. Some brands require locksmiths to make use of specialized tools to copy keys from your vehicle and others permit you to program the key yourself by using simple tools and a manual.
A transponder key doesn't contain a battery, but the information stored on the microchip is powered by radio signals which are transmitted from the car's immobilizer when the key is near the receiver. As a result, the key can't be duplicated with a standard key copying device because the transmissions are too weak.
A car transponder is more expensive, but it provides additional security and can discourage thieves. If you are concerned about your vehicle being stolen and don't like the hassle of having it returned the flat metal key may be more affordable. It's important that you consult a locksmith in NYC who is well-versed in the car key requirements. Based on your requirements, they may 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 provides 24 hour emergency service in the Five Boroughs.